Hola! I´m Sascha Knijn. I live in sunny Málaga and, as a Virtual Assistant (VA), I take care of all the behind-the-scenes work so you can focus on what really matters: your business and your clients.
Besides working on my own business, I love being active and spending time outdoors. In my free time, you'll find me on the padel court or at the beach playing beach volleyball. I'm also often out on my bike, either on my own or showing a group of tourists around beautiful Málaga. Something I love doing!
Living in Spain had always been a dream of mine. Sometimes it feels like I was born in the wrong country! After completing my bachelor's degree in International Business at the University of Applied Sciences of Utrecht and my master's degree in Human Resource Management at the Erasmus University Rotterdam, it was finally time to take that big step. And I'm so glad I did!
After working in Málaga for several years in different companies, I started feeling that something was missing. Finding the right work-life balance and the freedom to work from anywhere proved to be difficult. In one job, I missed the challenge, while in another, I spent most of my time sitting behind a desk in a grey office. I was looking for something that would genuinely energise me.
And then I discovered the world of Virtual Assistance (VA). Working independently of time and location, taking on a variety of tasks, helping others and building my own business? That sounded like the perfect combination. It brings together what I'm good at and what I want.
"Sascha will sort it out!" I've been hearing that for as long as I can remember. In my personal life, I'm often the one organising things: a weekend away, a group holiday or that perfect gift. "Sascha will sort it out!"
Also in my work I'm the person who takes initiative. Colleagues come to me with IT questions, I spot the little tasks that keep getting pushed aside and pick them up before anyone has to ask. When a new project starts, I quickly make sure there's a plan and a clear overview. That's exactly what I enjoy: seeing what's needed, thinking about how things could work smarter and simply making sure they get done.
Helping others and having variety in my work are what give me energy.
What can I bring to the table?
To me, a good Virtual Assistant does more than just complete your list of tasks. It's important that you can rely on me and that I actively think ahead.
Proactive – I don't just wait for instructions; I look ahead. I ask questions, think about how things could be done more efficiently and speak up when I see opportunities to improve something.
Independent – You don't have to hold my hand through every step. I manage my time efficiently, take ownership of tasks and get things moving.
Reliable –If I say I'll do something, I'll do it. I communicate in a clear, direct and honest way. I keep you updated and take responsibility for my work.
My experience
Administration and organisation
Administration and organisation I've worked in a secretary office, where I was responsible for online and in-person events, documentation and providing IT support to colleagues. I also have experience in project management and organising events for universities. I make sure there's both structure and action. With my technical knowledge, I look for ways to make things smarter and faster, not just for now but for the future too.
Communication and working with people
My customer service experience has taught me how to communicate effectively, solve problems and help people move forward. I've also worked as a team lead in recruitment, where I was involved in the entire process, from selection to onboarding. My understanding of people helps me communicate clearly and effectively, both with colleagues and with clients.