How to start a Virtual Assistant Business?

Ask Shama, she got a great post out to answer this question, here she sets out what you need:

“….What do you need? Characteristics wise, most clients ask for virtual assistants who are sharp, can take initiative, and who will help further the client’s business. If this sounds like you, you may find your business booming before you know it. You also need a good working computer, an internet, fax, and phone connection, and lots of folders to keep you organized. Remember to back up your files often. Careless errors in your first years in business can cost you.”

There is more, so have a look. I would add, to use online technology, with all it’s benefits for you, it also makes it much easier to become an integral part of the clients team.

She also talks about marketing, there are many places you can find contacts and network, like LinkedIn, LiveNet, and others. ST.

3 Responses to “ How to start a Virtual Assistant Business? ”

1. Amber Bean
   
   Said on February 12th, 2009 at 1:32 pm

   I agree those are top characteristics of a great Virtual assistant. If your readers are interested on How to Become a VA, check out http://www.vanetworking.com/become-a-virtual-assistant.htm

2. SMac
   
   Said on February 25th, 2009 at 11:03 pm

   I am a member of VAnetworking.com – not only is this site excellent for networking but it also has tonnes of resources on how to start your VA biz, templates, seminars, and much more. If you’re even considering starting a VA business you should check it out. I did, and it has helped me enormously!

3. Marie Chandler
   
   Said on July 5th, 2009 at 7:12 am

   A good virtual assistant needs good computer know-how, common sense, motivation, understanding of how a business works (not just their own, but their client’s also) and good communication skills, before they even consider setting up shop. They also need to be a good fit with the potential client. Not sure about the need for ‘lots of folders’ as referred to by Shama – you should be organised enough to have a basically paperless office and know where everything is. Or is that just a obsessive compulsive side of me I wasn’t aware of?! This is a good topic with some good links to research for any new VAs out there.

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