By Nicole Dean
Skills Required: Basic computer skills and office skills are good to have before considering becoming a Virtual Assistant. If you have knowledge in a specialized field, you may be able to fill a certain client's needs and charge more money. But, just about every type of service is in demand online, including customer support, proof-reading and book-keeping. As with any small business, you will have some start up costs to consider, but they are minimal. The purchase of a good computer, printer, and desk are the only items that you'll need.
Your Services: What are you good at? Deciding which talents you have will determine the services that you will offer your clients. Are you a typing whiz? Do you like solving customer problems over the phone? Can you make complicated travel arrangements seem easy? Do you like to coordinate special events? Are you a good networker? Do you have a good eye for design? Can you find your way through developing a web site? After you figure out which services suit you, you will be able to develop a plan of action.
Put Together a Business Plan: Before taking the next step of starting a Virtual Assistance business, we recommend that you write a business plan that includes an overview of your business, mission statement, marketing and financial plan. There are many online resources to help you put together your plan, decide which services to offer, etc.
Setting Up Your Home Office: Make sure you have a separate work area, free from background noise, with adequate space to keep your client information secure and organized. You'll eventually want to invest in a good desk, a separate telephone line with answering machine, and a reliable computer and printer. As your business grows, you may want to expand your office to include a scanner, copier and fax, depending on the type of work you're doing for clients.
Software You'll Need: You'll also want to have all the software required to provide the services you've decided to offer. If you're starting on a budget, at a minimum you need the software required to do the job well. You can always upgrade or get new software as warranted. Networking with other VAs is invaluable in finding out all the best resources for software and support. Many expensive programs can be purchased at low cost or free -- or replaced with a free alternative, you'll find.
Marketing Yourself Professionally: Having professionally-made address labels, business cards, and stationery is important to presenting yourself as a professional. You'll also want a website or blog as a means to introducing yourself to the public and as a way to maintain contact with your clients. Be sure your website includes a list of the services you offer, your contact information, and, once you get established with a few clients, some testimonials. As a beginner, offering free services to certain clients will build rapport and your portfolio at the same time. You want your clients talking you up! Advertising at online forums, networking Twitter.com, and joining networking groups will also help you to build a client base.
You can enjoy your new career and make good money in the process from home. Virtual Assistants are highly in demand in an uncertain economy. When a small business owner has the option of taking on the expense and commitment of a full-time employee verses opting for a Virtual Assistant as a consultant part-time, you can see why this opportunity is growing. Get started today.
Setting up a Virtual Assistant Business is a fun and lucrative business to start with a minimum of money and equipment. Get step-by-step help by grabbing a JustAddSweat.com's Virtual Assistant Business from Home Guide today.
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