Build Your Business... Change Your Life!

(This is a post by my husband, Chris, the computer guru!)

When I am looking for a new computer, there are a few specs that matter and there are some that are just preferences.

The first question that you have to answer is: Do you want a laptop or a desktop?

Jen uses her laptop exclusively so she can move around and work wherever she needs to.
I like having a laptop, but I sit at my desk 90% of the time and have it hooked up to a keyboard and mouse and 2 external screens.

If you are planning on always sitting at your desk, a desktop will work for you and typically will be cheaper than a laptop. If you want/need the flexibility to move around or work in other places, then you will need to get a laptop.

The options below that I always look for are the same no matter if you are looking for a laptop or a desktop.

At the very bottom of this article, I will show you the setup that I use almost exclusively with multiple monitors and a keyboard/mouse.

When looking for a PC, here are the things that matter:

Processor:
- Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 for basic computer work
- Intel i7 or i9 or AMD Ryzen 7 or 9 if you are going to be doing a lot of graphics work in Photoshop (if you are doing this in Canva online, a 5 will do just fine) or video

RAM
- At least 8 GB, 16 GB preferred
Hard Drive
- SSD (solid state hard drive)
- At least 500 GB, 1 TB preferred

When looking for a PC, these are the things that are a preference:

Screen size (for laptop)
- I use a docking station with multiple monitors, so I don't need a big screen, and I like the portability of a 13" screen, but I don't work on it all of the time. Jen uses her laptop almost exclusively and 13 works just fine for her

Number keypad
- If you are using your laptop exclusively and you are doing bookkeeping, this will be a necessity. If you are using an external keyboard (like I do), then it doesn't matter.

Brand
- I prefer HP or Dell. They make nice computers that last and they have great customer service if you have a problem.

When looking for a Mac:
- Look for something that is 2-3 years old or brand new. You can get nice refurbished laptops that are 2-3 years old at a substantial discount of a new computer.
- If you are looking for a laptop, I recommend a Macbook Pro. They will almost always have better specs than a Macbook Air.

RAM
- 8 GB, 16 preferred

Hard Drive
- 500 GB, 1 TB preferred

Here is what I use for my setup (I have done this with both a Mac and a PC)
- USB-C docking station for Mac (search for USB-C docking station on Amazon to find a lot of options) USB-C docking station for PC
  - If you are using a Mac, you will need to specify that you are searching for a Mac because they are different
  - I look to make sure that it will have at least 2 HDMI outputs so that I can connect 2 monitors
  - I look to make sure that it has multiple USB connections or purchase a USB hub
- Bluetooth Logitech keyboard & mouse (all Macs come with Bluetooth built in, most PCs do at this point)
- 2 25" monitors - anything will work for this, I recommend having the exact same monitor if you are going to have two.

Remember, this is a business expense! (And a write-off.)

If you invest well, it will last you longer and cause you fewer headaches!

I owned a music school for 25 years. I loved it! But there came a time when I was expanding, hiring more teachers, adding programs, AND juggling a home and family when I just couldn't do it all anymore. 

Hiring my first VA was like the heavens opened and the angels sang. She was so level-headed, calm, and organized. She enrolled more students than I could on my own! She caught mistakes in the database and fixed them. She was a lifesaver.

We all know that we are different. Each of us has our unique strengths and abilities. But when it comes to business owners, sometimes we pride ourselves on doing it all. But it's just not sustainable in the long run! You can't keep your eye on the big picture AND all the details. You'll run yourself ragged.

Hiring a VA can be the lifesaver that literally changes your life!

What is a General Admin VA?

A General Admin VA is a person who is responsible for managing a company's day-to-day operations. Often, a VA supports a solo-preneur or a smaller company. Hiring a VA is more affordable than paying a full-time employee with benefits. General Admin VAs can help busy business owners with email, calendars, schedules, databases, projects, and more. 

A General Admin VA will ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively!

A VA can help with the tasks that often fall through the cracks when a business is growing and expanding.

Platforms a General Admin VA may use:

Google Docs
Gmail
Excel
Google Sheets
Canva
MailChimp
MailerLite
And others like these!

Need to hire a VA? Check out our Directory! Our VAs have been trained to help small business owners like you! https://www.jenhickle.com/virtual-assistance/ 

Considering Becoming a General Admin VA?

How do you know if you have what it takes?
Do you love organizing?
Love spreadsheets?
Do you love your laptop and phone and find satisfaction in completing tasks?  
Do you have past experience as an admin, secretary, or in other office-type jobs?
Do people seek you out at church or your homeschool co-op to track details or event info?
You're probably a perfect fit! Take the Quiz and find out

I'm here to help business owners get the help they need with the VAs who are right for the job!

Hiring a VA changed my life and that's why I train VAs now-- to help business owners live a more full (and less stressed) life!

Jen Hickle
www.jenhickle.com