Start a Virtual Assistant Career in 2022 - Beginner's Guide to VA Jobs

Introduction to Virtual Assistant Jobs

In recent years, the virtual assistant industry has exploded in popularity. With more businesses operating remotely due to the pandemic, there is high demand for skilled virtual assistants who can provide administrative and technical support. The best part about virtual assistant jobs is that no prior experience is required to get started.

Virtual assistant jobs come with an endless list of perks. You can enjoy the freedom and flexibility to work from anywhere in the world. All you need is a laptop and a strong internet connection. For many, it is the ultimate dream job that allows you to make money while traveling or working from the comfort of your home.

What Does a Virtual Assistant Do?

Virtual assistants provide administrative, technical, or creative support to businesses and entrepreneurs. Common virtual assistant duties include:

• Email management
• Calendar management
• Bookkeeping
• Transcription
• Social media management
• Customer service
• Writing & editing
• Graphic design
• Website development
• SEO services

Most virtual assistants choose to specialize in a few key service offerings when starting out. However, over time, many expand their skill sets to include a wider range of duties. The great thing about working online is that there are no limits on how you can upskill or pivot your career.

Pros of Virtual Assistant Jobs

Here are some of the biggest advantages of pursuing online remote work opportunities as a virtual assistant:

• Be Your Own Boss - As a virtual assistant, you will enjoy being your own boss. You get to set your own schedule and workload. You won't have a micromanaging boss breathing down your neck.
• Work From Anywhere - Escape the confines of a traditional office space. Virtual assistants can work from anywhere with an internet connection, whether it's a beach in Bali or a ski chalet in Aspen.
• Enjoy Flexible Hours - For early birds and night owls, virtual assistant jobs provide the flexibility to work during the hours you are most productive.
• High Earning Potential - Top virtual assistants can earn over $50 per hour with extensive experience and technical skills.
• Endless Growth Opportunities - You will constantly be learning new skills and expanding your offerings as a virtual assistant. The growth potential is limitless.

Where to Find Remote Virtual Assistant Jobs

Many new virtual assistants make the mistake of limiting their job search to a few platforms. The secret is using a wide range of job boards and online communities to find the best remote work opportunities. Here are some top sites to find legitimate virtual assistant jobs:

• FlexJobs - Leading job site for screened remote & flexible job listings across all career fields.
• Remote.co - Excellent community for finding 100% remote virtual assistant opportunities.
• Upwork - Largest freelance website with endless virtual assistant job opportunities.
• Fiverr - Freelance services marketplace where you can sell your VA services.
• Virtual Vocations - Specialized job board focused exclusively on remote work listings.
• We Work Remotely - Site sharing the latest remote jobs in all categories.
• Reddit - Join subreddits like r/remotejobs, r/forhire, r/freelance for open VA gigs.
• Facebook Groups - Join popular groups like Virtual Assistant Pros, Virtual Assistant Networking, and more.
• LinkedIn - Follow company pages and connect with other VAs to find openings.

Take the time to create profiles and establish your presence on all of these sites. The more exposure you gain, the more virtual assistant job opportunities will come your way.

Requirements to Become a VA

Just because virtual assistant jobs can be done remotely doesn't mean the role doesn't come with some basic requirements. Here is what you will need to start working as a VA:

• A computer/laptop
• Reliable high-speed internet
• Proficiency with digital tools like email, docs, spreadsheets, project management software, etc.
• Exceptional communication and organizational skills
• Self-motivation and time management skills
• A dedicated home office space
• Familiarity with domains you want to specialize in

As long as you have these basics covered, you can start applying to entry-level virtual assistant openings right away. Advanced skills like website development or graphic design will make you more competitive but are not essentials to break into the industry.

How to Start Working as a Virtual Assistant

If you are sold on the benefits of virtual assistant jobs, here are some steps to help you get up and running:

1. Pick Your Niche

Determine what types of virtual assistant services you want to offer. Most successful VAs select a niche like social media, email marketing, bookkeeping, graphic design, etc. Play to your existing skills and interests.

2. Build Your Portfolio

Create a website to showcase your skills and past work samples. Your portfolio will provide credibility when applying to VA jobs.

3. Network & Make Connections

Networking is crucial to build relationships with business owners looking for support. Attend conferences and events to connect with potential new clients.

4. Invest In Your Toolkit

Make sure you have the right equipment and software subscriptions. For example, VAs may need tools like Slack, Trello, QuickBooks, Photoshop, etc.

5. Set Your Rates

Determine your hourly or project rates based on your experience level and services. On average, entry-level VAs earn $15-$25 per hour.

6. Search Job Boards and Apply

Once your portfolio, rates, and online profiles are ready to go, start actively searching for and applying to virtual assistant openings that fit your niche.

Leverage job boards like those mentioned above. Reach out directly to companies posting listings. Many new VAs also land their first clients through referrals from business contacts.

Conclusion

Becoming a virtual assistant is a great entry point into the exciting world of remote work. As long as you have a computer, internet connection, and basic admin or technical skills, you can start applying to open virtual assistant jobs right away.

Take advantage of the flexibility to build your own schedule and be your own boss. With endless growth potential, hard-working virtual assistants can eventually command top hourly rates in excess of $50 per hour. Don't wait - start exploring available opportunities today!

FAQs

What qualifications do I need to become a virtual assistant?

The basic requirements are a computer, internet access, organization and communication skills. Specific admin, technical or creative skills in your niche are a plus but not always required for entry level roles.

What equipment/tools does a virtual assistant need?

A laptop or desktop computer, high-speed internet, video conferencing software, productivity suites like G-suite or Office 365, client CRMs or PM tools, and any niche-specific programs related to your skills.

How much do virtual assistants earn?

Entry-level virtual assistants typically earn $15-$25 per hour. With 5+ years experience, high-demand technical skills, and top credentials, some VAs can command over $50 per hour.

Where can I find legitimate virtual assistant job openings?

Great sites to find remote VA jobs include FlexJobs, Remote.co, Upwork, Fiverr, Virtual Vocations, We Work Remotely, LinkedIn, Reddit, and Facebook groups.

What services can I provide as a virtual assistant?

Common VA services include email/calendar management, social media, bookkeeping, graphic design, web development, SEO, customer service, writing, and more. Choose niche skills that match your interests and abilities.