Introduction
Virtual assistance is among the top online gigs for beginners. If you are organized, communication-savvy, and handy with a computer, you can be a virtual assistant (VA) and work from home to earn money.
In this article, we’ll cover what a VA does, how to look for jobs, determine rates, and create a successful VA business in 2024.
What is a Virtual Assistant (VA)?
Virtual assistant means providing administrative, technical, or creative support to entrepreneurs or businesses from a remote location. No more working in an office – you can work anywhere in the world.
Why Become a Virtual Assistant?
No degree necessary – anyone can begin with simple skills.
Flexible schedules – Work part-time or full-time.
Good compensation – Make up to $30+ per hour with experience.
Work with multiple clients – You can work with startups, influencers, or corporate executives.
Skills Required to Become a Virtual Assistant
Prior to applying for VA positions, you must acquire essential skills to be a successful VA.
Key VA Skills:
Organization & Time Management – Handling schedules, emails, and tasks effectively.
Communication Skills – Composing emails and making professional calls.
Tech Savvy – Knowledge of MS Office, Google Suite, Trello, or Slack.
Social Media Skills – Managing Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages.
Data Entry & Research – Dealing with spreadsheets and web research work.
Virtual Assistant Jobs Types
There are various forms of virtual assistance work, so you can pick a job as per your ability.
Most Frequent VA Jobs:
Administrative VA – Dealing with emails, calls, and meeting scheduling.
Social Media VA – Posting content on social media accounts.
E-commerce VA – Helping Shopify, Amazon, and Etsy shops.
Customer Support VA – Answering customer support tickets and customer inquiries.
SEO VA – Search engine optimization.
Where to Look for Virtual Assistant Jobs
Several companies are recruiting remote virtual assistants globally. These are some of the best sites to look for VA jobs:
Platform\tBest For
Upwork\tNewbies and veteran VAs
Fiverr\tCreating a VA gig for clients
PeoplePerHour\tFinding VA work on an hourly basis
Belay\tU.S.-based virtual assistant jobs
Fancy Hands\tSmall, one-time VA tasks
Time Etc\tHigh-paying, long-term VA jobs
Tip: Join LinkedIn and Facebook groups to look for private VA job postings.
How to Make a Virtual Assistant Portfolio
As a beginner, you still need a portfolio to get clients. Here’s how to make one:
Step 1: Write a Basic VA Resume
Refer to your skills and experience (even if voluntary).
Emphasize your knowledge of software programs (Google Docs, Canva, etc.).
Step 2: Exhibit Sample Work
If you don’t have prior VA experience, write practice examples like:
A mock social media post schedule
A dummy email template
A task planning sheet
Step 3: Create a Simple Website or PDF Portfolio
You can make a portfolio website with Wix, WordPress, or a free Canva PDF.
How to Set Your VA Rates and Pricing
Your pay as a VA will be based on your skills, experience, and location.
Newbie VA Rates
Entry-Level VA: $8 – $15/hour
Intermediate VA: $15 – $30/hour
Expert VA: $30 – $50/hour
How to Price Your Services?
Provide hourly rates ($10/hr for newbies, $25/hr for veterans).
Offer monthly packages (e.g., 10 hours/week for $500/month).
Provide task-based pricing (e.g., $50 for handling an Instagram account).
How to Market Yourself as a Virtual Assistant
To acquire clients, you must market yourself well.
Best Marketing Strategies
Build a professional LinkedIn profile – Most companies recruit VAs from LinkedIn.
Join VA Facebook Groups – Participate in groups and offer your services.
Utilize job boards such as Upwork & Fiverr – Optimize your gig descriptions.
Build a basic website – Highlight your portfolio and services.
Network with entrepreneurs – Network with startups and small business owners.
Pro Tip: Provide a complimentary trial task (such as 2 hours of VA work) to acquire your initial client.
Typical Blunders to Shun as a VA
Accepting all clients without vetting – Deal with serious, professional clients.
Failure to set firm work boundaries – Set your working hours to avert burnout.
Underpriced services – Charge reasonable rates based on industry norms.
Forgetting contracts – Always have a written contract before commencing work.