Can Anyone Become a Virtual Assistant?

The three members of CD&C Business & Legal Form Processing Services, LLC, have combined 30 years as paralegals/legal assistants. One positive of our time “in the trenches” is the opportunity to get hands-on training and to develop relationships with current and potential clients. A potential field of business opportunity is the Virtual Assistant. What is a Virtual Assistant, you ask? A Virtual Assistant (or simply VA), is an independent contractor providing administrative, technical, or sometimes creative assistance to clients–usually to other independent entrepreneurs and solo and small business practices, such as that of a lawyer or realtor. Virtual assistants work from their own office (hence “virtual”), thus making it a fairly popular (and growing) profession. It is estimated that there are about 5,000-8,000 virtual assistants worldwide.

The virtual assistant business is a very competitive industry. We would suggest to anyone entering the VA field to start with a basic business plan. For example, start in an area where you have experience, know your targeted clients, don’t waste time and money marketing to people who don’t need your services. In addition to internet marketing, good old fashion direct mailing, flyers and post cards still works. Keep in mind that the virtual assistant job description is very broad. As long as you can offer your skills online you can be qualified as a virtual assistant. As mentioned before make sure it is a skill in which you have knowledge and experience. So how does one find jobs/clients as a Virtual Assistant. Aggressive marketing and exceptional skills is what keeps us above or a least on par with our competition. What do you think?