Want to Become a Virtual Assistant?

So your thinking about becoming a Virtual Assistant (VA), but not sure where to begin? Well, you are no different then any other professional that has ventured into this fairly new career. Help is just a couple keystrokes away. We will cover some basic aspects of being a VA and where you can go for help in starting our own Virtual Assistant business.

What is a VA?

According to VANetworking.com, "A Virtual Assistant (substitute VA or Virtual Associate) works independently at an arm's length, via the Internet, utilizing the latest technologies, to provide immediate professional support, services and skills to busy entrepreneurs and business managers."

What skills do I need to be a VA?

Some questions to ask yourself before starting your own virtual assistant business:

· Do you have real world experience working in an office environment?

· Do you have a quiet area to create a home office?

· Are you familiar with the Internet?

· Do you already know several people who could utilize your services?

· Are you willing to learn new skills?

· Do you have the ability to market yourself?

The skills needed range from the basics (such as word processing and data entry) to highly specialized areas (web design, search engine optimization, content writing, and more). A VA should be proficient in the Internet, computers, various software, word processing, spreadsheet applications, general booking, and more.

A professional VA will have good business management skills as well as a basic understanding of marketing, advertising, and public relations. Having business management skills will not only help you in the operation of your business, but will also allow you to aid your clients in running theirs.

How much will I make?

There are several different ways in which VA's charge for services. You can charge by the hour, by the project, or by the page. Some people offer reduced rates for a monthly retainer option. A monthly retainer is when client commits to a certain number of hours per month at a rate that is predetermined. If at the close of the month you have worked less than the committed number of hours; then you are still paid the same. You would bill the client for any hours that you may work over the committed time. This can be at the same rate or whatever is agreed upon.

Where can I learn more?

There are many free and paid resources available on the Internet. Also, you can take a Virtual Assistant course at the International Virtual Assistants Association (IVAA). You can visit them at http://www.ivaa.org.

You can also join the Virtual Assistants Network Association (VANA). They offer a multitude of links to various learning resources and offer a free forum. You can network with others that are just starting out or get advice from experienced VA's. You can visit VANA at http://www.vanetworking.com.

About the author: Domenic is the owner of RI Web Solution. His company offers off-site administrative services to both small business and home based business owners. Visit his website at http://www.ribusinesssoluton.com or email him at dmarchetti@ribusinesssolution.com.