Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Sesti.
Hi Katie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
SESTIVA started because of my desire to take control over my life, where no one could tell me where I needed to be and when I needed to be there, even if the job was done. In January 2020, I began taking more active steps to get my virtual assistant business going. Then the pandemic came, and I thought I would have to put this dream on hold. But in May 2020, I realized I was given the gift of time and an empty social calendar. I started building the foundational groundwork in my evenings and weekends. In June 2020, I connected with my first client. We both knew this: we didn’t know what we didn’t know. But we knew we both had the skills the other needed. It was a great partnership. The rest is history. Since then, I’ve worked with small businesses, non-profits, organizations, and individuals in supporting their administrative needs.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it has not. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is the emotionality of business ownership. I realized that for a long while, I tended to equate my self-worth to how much business I had because I am my business. SESTIVA is only me. So if I had pitched to a potential client and they didn’t sign with me, you have to realize that it just means you’re not a good fit. Not that you are a bad person or bad at your job. So, for now, I’ve learned to ride the wave. Today I have an influx of work; tomorrow, I may not. But, enjoy the positives in both of those scenarios. I can use that free time to learn a new skill, set up more efficient work processes, explore new ideas, work on the house and adult responsibilities, focus on self-care, eat lunch with friends, or spend more time with my kids. I started my own business to control my life; most days, what that looks like is different.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
From sestiva.com/about, “My name is Katie, and I am SESTIVA. I believe in what I can offer so much that I proudly use my name. The core values that guide me are embedded into the mission of this business: honesty, integrity, respect, ethics, social justice, strength in diversity, and supporting people so they can achieve their full potential. I am authentically myself and only work with people and organizations who align with these values.” So what sets SESTIVA apart is authenticity. It is me; I am the business. I only work with clients who agree that social progress is good for everyone. Each of the nonprofits I’ve worked with has the mission of social equity and helping people/communities achieve their full potential.
My Virtual Assistant company is different from other VAs you may find online because I have a degree in Business Management with real-life work experience to back me up as a manager and assistant. I can provide consulting versus someone to help you cross off things from your to-do list. I am a natural problem solver with an open and friendly demeanor. If I have an idea to help you overcome something, I will offer you the solution, which is different from other VAs. The longer I do this, the more I realize I offer something different.
The service that SESTIVA provides could be described with one word: personalization. I work with each of my clients to hear about their challenges and create a plan to conquer them. Other VA companies offer cookie-cutter packages. I offer the ability to create a tailored outfit versus buying something off the rack. You may pay more, but you’ll be significantly happier with the result.
What matters most to you? Why?
I am working towards making the world better during my time here. Full stop. Everyone is connected, and we share each other’s energy. The more ‘good’ I can put in the world, the better everything will be for everyone. Positive ripple effects. How that can be achieved every day and moment will look different. But sharing my gifts and talents with the world to help others achieve their goals/happiness is a major reason why I wake up in the morning.
Pricing:
- Give or Take: $50/hour. Negotiable.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sestiva.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sestiva_stl/
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sestiva.stl
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/company/sestiva
- Other: https://www.sestiva.com/chronicles-and-commentary
Image Credits
Mel Z photo http://www.melzphoto.com/ Logo created by SESTIVA. I will say that due to the nature of my work, I do it all virtually distant from my clients but have participated in a few things that have made the news cycle. These links will eventually be embedded on my website once I get around to it. https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/education/teachers-students-march-for-equity-in-education-in-downtown-st-louis-in-purpose-educational-services-missouri-equity-education-partnership/63-9d880637-9be7-448c-9969-bd11d251dd35 (I was massive portion of the planning committee making this equity fair happen. At the 1:30 mark, I’m over the shoulder on the left side, I have the braid). https://www.ksdk.com/video/news/local/st-louisans-march-for-gun-control-downtown-st-louis/63-731323f6-03c8-4942-b9e8-0921c288cc38 (I personally handled the brown paper bag portion of this)
