Here’s How To Get Started As A Work-From-Home Virtual Assistant

Do Virtual Assistants Need To Be Certified?

It all depends. If you’re just starting out in the industry, certification and verification programs can be a great stepping stone to get you started and learn from professionals who have already seen success as a VA. The seal of approval you receive after taking a course also adds credibility to your brand.

Although, if you can market yourself and are approachable, it likely won’t matter if you have the certification or not. Relationships are the most important quality to have in any business. If you can build quality relationships, you’re probably safe to bypass the certification program. I would recommend applying for positions first, and later considering a certificate program if you find you’re having trouble landing a position or an employer tells you directly that you need to be certified.

International Virtual Assistants Association (IVAA) has some good resources about certification programs.

Are There Other Tips I Should Know About Becoming a Virtual Assistant?

If you’re starting your own business, setting up your own website or blog is a good idea for marketing purposes. Having a presence on social media is also a good way to help potential clients get to know you and your work.

Remember, relationships are key to any human interaction. The better the relationship, the more value you’ll get out of the work you do for others.

Evaluate your own personal strengths and weaknesses, then start finding clients and/or companies. Don’t try to do every task because you’re looking for clients right away. Pick activities that you like doing and are good at doing. If you hate making or receiving phone calls, don’t find clients looking for customer service representatives. You can also pick a niche and focus on clients that fit within that niche.

Good luck on your VA journey, and please share your tips with us on Facebook.