How to Start as a Virtual Assistant or Freelancer

Working as a virtual assistant or freelancer can provide you with the unique opportunity to work from anywhere in the world, choose your own clients, and select the projects that best align with your skills and interests.

This level of flexibility and control is one of the many benefits of working as a VA or freelancer. However, starting out in this field can be challenging, especially if you are new to working in this capacity.

There are a lot of people who want to know how to become a virtual assistant, so as the founder of Sonic VA, I’ve compiled a list of four essential things to keep in mind.

• Be willing to try different things to find your niche

One of the benefits of working as a VA or freelancer is the flexibility to try different tasks and industries until you find your niche. You can start by offering a variety of services, such as data entry, social media management, or customer service. As you gain experience, you will be able to identify the tasks you enjoy the most and are best at. This will allow you to specialize in a specific area and become an expert in your field, making it easier to attract clients.

• Stop thinking that you’re inexperienced

As a virtual assistant or freelancer, experience is not the only thing that affects how well you perform at your job. Many clients are willing to work with individuals who are new to the field as long as they are willing to learn and have the necessary skills. Focus on getting better at what you do and building up your portfolio so you can show potential clients what you can offer.

• Prepare to use English to communicate professionally

You will need to be able to communicate with clients from all over the world if you work in this field. To speak and write English in a professional setting, you need to know the language well enough. Spend some time each day reading, writing, and practicing the spoken and written word in order to enhance your English skills.

• Put your skills to use instead of your academic credentials

Academic credentials are not always necessary to be successful as a VA or freelancer. Clients care more about your skills and abilities than anything else, so it’s important to highlight your skill set in your portfolio and when talking to potential clients. Utilize your unique strengths and experiences to stand out and attract clients who value what you can bring to the table.

While starting out as a virtual assistant or freelancer can be hard, you can set yourself up for success in this field by being willing to try a variety of tasks and letting go of the mindset that you lack experience. Develop your communication skills, be ready to use English professionally, and put your talents to good use no matter what your academic credentials may be.

Do you know someone else who can also benefit from these tips? Share it with your friends!

Dan Meyer is the founder of Sonic VA, which specializes in matching Filipino Virtual Assistants with American Small Business clients and has been a leader in the outsourcing industry since 2011.

Dan is also one of the top experts in Virtual Staffing and has personally trained over 10,000 Filipinos in areas such as virtual assistance, data analytics, business process outsourcing and social media marketing & management.