| What is a Virtual Assistant? According to Virtual | | | | potential clients, there are several ways to find |
| Assistant Networking Association, a Virtual Assistant | | | | companies and individuals who need a virtual assistant. |
| (VA) is a highly-trained independent entrepreneur who | | | | If you are just starting out and not quite sure what |
| provides a myriad of business support services | | | | services you want to offer clients, try volunteering. |
| virtually via phone, fax and internet based technology | | | | Local nonprofit organizations are more than open to |
| to support and meet the growing needs of businesses | | | | volunteers. In addition to routine administrative tasks, |
| worldwide. The industry has become popular in recent | | | | you may want to offer to develop a website, come |
| years and many professionals are transitioning to | | | | up with new fundraising ideas, create a donor |
| working from home. Here are some tips on getting | | | | database or create a newsletter. |
| started in the virtual assistant field: | | | | There are many freelance sites online. Keep in mind |
| Decide the type of work you enjoy doing and market | | | | that you will probably not be able to demand your initial |
| to your specialization. Do you prefer technical tasks, | | | | retainer rate but they are great to utilize when |
| such as web design? Or is repetitive typing your | | | | beginning your business. Read all policy information |
| forte? Do you enjoy speaking on the phone? | | | | carefully. You will need to know how to submit |
| Narrowing your focus will prevent you from seeking | | | | resumes and how/when you will be paid. Create a |
| work that does not appeal to you. | | | | profile that will stand out as you will be competing |
| Your niche will help in determining your office needs. A | | | | against many others. |
| quality telephone system is essential in answering client | | | | Network and talk to EVERYONE about your business. |
| calls. A computer with Internet capability is a must as | | | | Join social networking sites and create a professional |
| well as up-to-date software and antivirus program. | | | | profile to showcase your skills to both fellow virtual |
| Backing up your computer at regular intervals will | | | | assistants and potential clients. |
| prevent loss of information and save you many | | | | If marketing your services does not interest you, |
| headaches in the long run. | | | | consider subcontracting with another virtual assistant. |
| Make sure your administrative skills are top notch and | | | | You are then free to focus on your skills and not trying |
| current. The role of an assistant has changed over the | | | | to locate clients. Joining a virtual assistant forum is an |
| years to include specialized responsibilities. Clients are | | | | excellent place to meet successful business owners. |
| asking for social media marketing experience, blogging | | | | By researching the industry, networking and organizing, |
| and e-commerce, just to name a few. Invest in a | | | | you will be well on your way to success as a virtual |
| course, if necessary. | | | | assistant. |
| If you are comfortable marketing your services to | | | | |