(Book) How to Open and Operate a Home-Based Secretarial Services Business by Jan Melnik
My husband and I operate a virtual assistance business on a full-time basis together. I probably should have read this book years ago (in fact, it’s been sitting on my bookshelf for a very long time). It’s a little out-dated (1994) so some of the items don’t really apply. My biggest problem with this is that the author really tailors the book towards resume writing and support services. That’s her niche and she does a great job representing that. And I can see how most people can change up things to fit their business model, but for me, most of this stuff has already been done in my business. It WAS good, however, to see that I’m on the right track 
It always gives me a boost and gets my creative juices flowing to read about other’s businesses, read business books, go to conferences, etc… a good read for anyone contemplating going into this type of work.
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From Library Journal
There is a great demand for books on starting new businesses, particularly specific types of businesses. The strength of these titles is that the authors have all started their own business and operated them for many years. All three authors discuss business plans, financing, record keeping, and other basics and include samples of the necessary forms. Dell includes an excellent section on dealing with the employees needed in a landscaping business and even gives advice on managing aliens and non-English speakers. He also explains how to find and bid on different landscaping jobs. Melnik devotes a large portion of her book to the marketing of a secretarial service. She provides sample advertising letters and scripts for responding to phone callers inquiring about services. Parker discusses extensively the desktop publishing business. She includes a list of 63 possible jobs a desktop publisher and writer can do, including producing advertising copy, making calendars and greeting cards, and writing articles. She also includes a discussion of computer software and hardware. Each book is essential reading for anyone wanting to start a business in the field it covers. Recommended for libraries with small business collections.
Joel Jones, Jefferson Cty. P.L., Arvada, Colo.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
