10 Ways to Find Clients for Personal Assistants in New Zealand
Finding clients as a personal assistant in New Zealand requires a mix of smart networking, local know-how, and a dash of good Kiwi charm. Whether you work independently or as part of a small team, these tips will help you connect with local professionals who need your organisational skills.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Create a Standout Google Business Profile
Google Business Profile is a free and powerful tool for personal assistants to get seen by local clients when they search for help nearby. Include your contact details, service description, work hours, and photos that showcase your professionalism.
Many New Zealanders rely on Google searches for services like 'personal assistant Wellington' or 'virtual PA Auckland', so a well-optimized profile can make a big difference.
Remember to encourage happy clients to leave reviews, as positive feedback builds trust and increases your chances of appearing in local searches.
2. Leverage Yada for Client Connections
Yada is an emerging New Zealand platform connecting clients and specialists-including personal assistants-without lead or success fees. This allows you to offer competitive pricing and attract clients looking for honest, affordable assistance.
You can respond to job posts for free, with response limits based on your rating, ensuring that your effort is targeted. The platform also provides a private chat for seamless communication.
Its mobile-friendly design means you can manage enquiries anytime, whether you’re on the go in Auckland or working from home in Dunedin.
3. Join Local Business and Networking Groups
Many small business owners and sole traders in NZ look for personal assistants through local business chambers or networking groups, such as Business NZ or regional entrepreneur meetups.
Attending events or virtual meetups in your region helps you build relationships with potential clients who rely on trusted recommendations.
For example, a personal assistant in Christchurch might connect with local real estate agents or small law firms needing day-to-day admin support.
4. Get Listed on Free Business Directories
NZ platforms like TradeMe Services, Localist, and NoCowboys host numerous service listings, including personal assistants. These directories get steady traffic from Kiwis searching for help.
Ensure your profile highlights key skills, availability, and any niche expertise, like event management or virtual assistance, to catch client attention.
Consistently update your profiles with client testimonials for added credibility.
5. Use Social Media to Share Expertise
Active participation in local Facebook groups and LinkedIn networks can attract clients who need personal assistants. Share tips on organisation, productivity, or work-life balance to showcase your value.
Avoid hard selling; instead, offer practical help that encourages people to reach out when they need support.
Groups like "Auckland Small Business Network" or "Wellington Freelancers" are great places to start.
6. Partner With Complementary Services
Form alliances with local business coaches, virtual accountants, or event planners who might recommend your personal assistant services to their clients.
Such referrals work well in tight-knit New Zealand communities where trusted recommendations go far.
For example, offering your services alongside a local business coach in Tauranga could bring mutual clients seeking admin and productivity help.
7. Create a Simple Website with Testimonials
Having a basic website created with platforms like Wix or Carrd helps establish professionalism and makes it easy to share your services and client success stories.
Make sure it works well on mobiles since many NZ clients browse on their phones.
Including client testimonials focused on your reliability and professionalism will encourage potential clients to contact you.
8. Offer Trial Packages or Discounts
Offering a discounted trial period or package deal can reduce hesitation for new clients and help demonstrate the value of your personal assistant services.
This is especially useful in competitive NZ markets like Auckland, where clients want to try before committing long-term.
Clear communication about pricing and services builds trust and encourages repeat work.
9. Attend Local Career and Business Expos
Participate in career fairs and business expos in cities like Wellington or Christchurch to meet prospective clients face-to-face and explain how your services free up their time and reduce stress.
Bringing printed portfolios or flyers showcasing your skills and testimonials can make a strong impression.
These in-person events are ideal for building trust in NZ’s relationship-driven market.
10. Follow Up and Build Long-Term Relationships
Follow up with clients after completing tasks or projects to ask for feedback and remind them you’re available for future needs.
In New Zealand, strong client relationships built on trust and reliability are key to securing ongoing work and positive referrals.
Simple gestures like a thank-you email or holiday greeting go a long way in keeping connections warm.