Are you an entrepreneur looking for virtual assistant services? You've come to the right place.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a digital networking platform (with IRL benefits) that encourages connection, business support and community. It’s a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented folks! Looking for inspiration? Check out how Tatiana Gromenko, the founder of SGB VA, gets it done like a boss.
Tell us the story behind your business.
My business started with a simple goal: to help entrepreneurs like me grow their businesses while having more time for themselves. I realised how overwhelming it can be to handle everything alone, so I wanted to create a solution. That’s when I founded my virtual assistant agency. It’s been an incredible journey building a supportive community that believes in the power of delegation and teamwork.
What are some milestones or achievements you’re proud of?
In 2018, I launched my first business, SGB @singaporeguidebook, a digital platform that promotes Singapore to Indonesian travellers. To date, we have partnered with major organisations, including the Singapore Tourism Board, Klook, and Gardens by the Bay.
In 2019, I expanded into the events industry with SGB Events, where we organise private events for prestigious luxury brands such as Prada, Givenchy, Chloe, Burberry, and Valentino.
During the pandemic, I worked as a virtual assistant, managing social media for various clients. Leveraging my business expertise and VA experience, I created the SGB VA Online Course, where I mentor and train individuals to become highly skilled and professional virtual assistants. Today, the SGB VA community has grown to include over 65,000 remote workers, with more than 9,000 VA alumni.
Share a setback that taught you a valuable lesson about running a business.
When I started my entrepreneurial journey, I was so excited about building something of my own that I jumped headfirst into a business idea without fully understanding the market or its long-term potential. I put my time, and resources into it, but it didn’t work out.
That taught me the importance of thoroughly researching and validating a business model before committing significant resources. I also learned to focus on solving real problems for the target market and aligning services with client needs.
Describe a typical day in your life and what you love most about it.
I start the day with my family, sharing breakfast and chatting about our plans for the day. After dropping the kids at school, I dive into work. I check in with my team and review and tackle my priorities for the day. I love mentoring aspiring VAs through our online course, so that’s a big part of my schedule, including a mix of meetings, strategy sessions, and catching up on emails. My day ends with a quick workout and family time.
What I love most about my day is the balance. I get to lead a thriving business while being present for my family.
What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show that has influenced your entrepreneurial mindset?
I love Gary Vee’s book, Crushing It. It helped me when I started my journey as an entrepreneur and gave me the motivation to not give up and continue believing in myself, despite all the obstacles I faced as a business owner.
I also like John Kehoe’s book, Money, Success, and You. It was fundamental in shifting my mindset from ‘What to do to make more money’ to ‘What to do to help more people.’ Understanding the law of karma and the belief that ‘The more you give, the more you receive’ completely transformed my business and myself as a person.
Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Focus on building a strong foundation of trust and value. Your business won’t thrive unless people believe in you, so always prioritise authenticity and a genuine desire to help others. Don’t be afraid to delegate! It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but a great team, even if it’s just a small group of virtual assistants, can help scale your vision faster and more effectively. Most importantly, stay true to your purpose, stay consistent, and keep your passion alive – your journey will inspire others and attract the right opportunities.
Top tip for maintaining a good work-life balance?
Prioritise tasks, set clear boundaries and make time for family. I plan my workday, leaving space for personal time, and ensure I’m present during family activities. Self-care is key and balance is about consistency, not perfection.
Favourite thing to do on weekends?
Spending time with my family and giving undivided attention to my son, Leonard, who is four. We love going to East Coast Park to ride bicycles, having lunch or breakfast out, and chilling at home.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I’ve been studying Bahasa Indonesia since 2011 at my university. I also went to Bali while I was still in university, where I received a scholarship. I lived in Bali, danced traditional Balinese dances, and played gamelan, and that’s how my story with Indonesia started.
Get in touch with Tatiana Gromenko online.
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