Photo by Ivan Samkov
If you’re looking into remote work, virtual assistance offers a plethora of opportunities that range from all kinds of niches. From writing, to social media management, no doubt there’s work out there for you. But how do you get started? Also, what skills do you need to become a virtual assistant? We mentioned in our previous blog that virtual assistants should be leveraging their previous work history when applying for jobs.
What Virtual Assistants Do on a Regular Basis
Some general services a va should offer include:
Data entry
Manage incoming emails and calls
Manage spreadsheets
Make appointments
Generate sales leads
Email marketing
Social media management
Bookkeeping
Organize files and documents
Prepare reports and statements
It’s important to note that depending on the industry and your specific client, the work varies depending on what’s needed from you.
Take Inventory of Your Skills
What are you good at? What are you passionate about? When deciding to become a virtual assistant, these are questions you need to ask yourself. Most importantly, what niche do you want to serve? Now, there seems to be a lot of debate whether a freelance virtual assistant should even have a niche. Some don’t, some do. It really seems to be up to the individual.
If you have expert knowledge in a particular field, however, it could be a good idea to leverage this experience. To sum it up, a niche might not be exactly necessary, but it certainly doesn’t hurt!
What Do You Want to Offer?
It’s best when applying for jobs, to read what they’re looking for. Do you have the skillset that the company or entrepreneur is looking for? We know when you’re just starting out, it can be tempting to accept any and all work that you’re offered.
Don’t do this! There’s nothing more demoralizing than later admitting you can’t do something you’ve agreed to or find yourself way over your head.
Invest in Your Business
As a virtual assistant, you are a small business. And you should invest in any equipment you may need for the job. A big one, of course, is fast internet. From zoom calls to researching to implementing data in a system, fast internet is a must. Also make sure you have a sustainable computer or laptop. An old computer can really slow you down just as much as a bad internet connection can.
Build a Social Media Presence
Like most businesses, you need a social media presence. Your account should be professional and not overly personal. Any personal content you do post should relate back to your business. If you have a professional social media account, it builds trust between you and any potential clients. If you’re on Instagram, you can get tips for optimizing your business account.
Build a Portfolio and Get Client Testimonials
Similar to having a social media presence builds trust, so does a portfolio and client testimonials. When you’ve closed a contract with a client, ask them for testimonials you can use as part of marketing yourself to other potential clients.
Having a portfolio clients can scan through is also essential. If possible, you can even do case studies if you want to take that extra step.
Final Thoughts
If you’re willing to dedicate the time to grow a virtual business and put in the effort, it’s definitely worth it in the long run! Our podcasts have excellent examples of people who left (either by choice or to changing circumstances) their 9-to-5 jobs and immersed themselves in the world of virtual assisting! So, if you have even an inkling to change career paths, we recommend you do it!
Listen to our podcasts on how regular people turned virtual assisting into a full time career.
Do you have an interesting story you think our followers would like to hear? Sign up for our podcast!
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