As the world takes a deep dive into remote working, there is a greater demand for virtual assistants than ever before. Landing your first job as a virtual assistant, or VA, is daunting, but it’s not impossible. In this article, we will discuss how you can land your first job as a virtual assistant (VA)
What Are Virtual Assistants, and What Do They Do?
A virtual assistant, commonly known as a VA, is a professional worker who supports other businesses or clients virtually or remotely. They are usually kept to provide clients with administrative, creative, or even technical support.
Thanks to high-speed internet, VA is currently an in-demand job for an online business that needs professional help but can only provide for part-time employees in a specific location.
There is a wide range of tasks that a Virtual assistant needs to perform, and depending on certain situations, their task might not be limited to
- Answering or initiating phone calls
- Maintain or monitor email accounts
- Handle travel arrangements
- Managing schedules
- Transcribe documents, do data entry, and manage spreadsheet
- Managing social media platforms
- Bookkeeping, billing
- Organizing files, etc
A virtual assistant is typically an entry-level job that requires a specific skill set. In this blog post, we have outlined 8 of the most sorted-out strengths you must possess to work as a successful virtual assistant without experience.
8 Steps To Becoming A Virtual Assistant With No Prior Experience
Identify Your Skills And Strengths
The first step in becoming a successful VA is to assess your strengths and skills. It would help to have an attractive resume highlighting your strengths and talents and showing that you qualify for the job.
Even without direct experience, many VA prospects will likely possess valuable skills in a virtual assistant role, like organization, communication, time management, computer literacy, and attention to detail.
Learn the necessary skills.
We are not born with skills; therefore, learning the necessary skills is vital to being a successful virtual assistant.
Below, we have outlined some necessary skills that you must possess to be a successful VA
- Organization and time management skills
- Communication Skills
- Technical Proficiency
- Computer proficiency
- Administrative support
- Customer Service Skills
- Research Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Problem-Solving Skills
Create A Professional Online Presence
An excellent online presence is critical for getting recruited as a good virtual assistant. To showcase your skills, you may build an active profile on relevant social media platforms and other well-designed websites.
A good online presence helps you build credibility and can attract potential clients. You may also create a professional email address and consider building a simple website or LinkedIn profile highlighting your skills, services, and any relevant experience or qualifications.
Build A Portfolio
A good and eye-catching portfolio is an excellent way to attract potential clients. Your portfolio should consist of successful project completions for the work that you have done. As you complete projects, ask satisfied clients for testimonials or reviews to add credibility to your profile. It would be best if you also compiled examples of your work, such as sample emails, spreadsheets, social media posts, or other tasks you’ve completed, to showcase your capabilities to potential clients.
Network And Connect With Potential Clients
Another aspect of landing your first job as a virtual assistant is networking and connecting with other professionals. You may also attend various online networking events and social media forums to network. These connections will always be fruitful, as they may lead to valuable insights about the industry, referrals, and collaborations with other professionals.
Offer Free Or Low-Cost Services
In the initial days, you may offer free or low-cost services to the clients. You may start by offering your services as a virtual assistant on freelance platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, or TaskRabbit to lower your potential clients.
It would help if you also created a compelling profile highlighting your skills, services, and why clients should hire you. Bid on projects that match your skills and interests, even if they’re entry-level or low-paying initially, to build your reputation and portfolio.
Search For Jobs
Many sites advertise virtual assistantship jobs for prospective job seekers. However, finding your first job requires a proactive approach and strategic job search tactics. Firstly, you must accept lower-paying jobs until you possess the necessary experience to land higher-paying ones. You can also refer your resume to job-seeking listing sites for more job openings.
Seek Feedback And Improve
To land your first virtual assistant (VA) job, seeking feedback and continuously improving your skills and approach are crucial. You may contact friends, family, or colleagues with experience in virtual assistance or related fields. Participating in online communities, forums, and social media groups dedicated to virtual assistance or freelancing. Connecting with experienced virtual assistants and seeking their guidance and advice will also help you land your first job as a VA.
Final Words
Landing your first job as a virtual assistant can be challenging, but possible. Remember to showcase your skills, demonstrate your value, and stay committed to your professional development as a virtual assistant.
By following the above-stated steps and working on your skills, you can increase your chances of landing your first job as a virtual assistant and kick-starting your career in the field.
