The internet has defined the way to work for millions in the world. The flexibility to work on your schedule, be your own boss and manage both personal and professional deliverables on your own time is priceless. Further the world becomes your office. You can travel and work from anywhere in the world irrespective of your geographical limitations.
You can now earn money by utilizing your talent to write, proofread, and even by helping other people manage daily tasks like sending emails and booking appointment. If you are good at writing - you can earn money as a freelance Writer, if you are good at proof - reading, you can earn money as a proofreader and if you are good at helping other people manage their tasks, you can make money as a virtual assistant.
In this post, we will discuss in detail about Virtual Assistants. This post is designed to give you an insight into a VA job and also answer some FAQs such as How to Make Money as a Virtual Assistant and the top places to find work as a Virtual Assistant.
Who is a Virtual Assistant ?
A Virtual Assistant (commonly known as VA) is a self employed professional who provides administrative, creative or technical assistance to clients while working from home. A VA, unlike full time employees of the company, works as a contractor and can be hired either to perform day to day tasks such as mail management and logistical bookings or for a specific project such as doing research while launching a new product. VA's utilize their own resources such as laptop, basic hardware / software for providing services (though in some instances there is reimbursement from clients of the day to day expenses). Given the remote nature of the job, VA's communicate with the client using email, phone-call conferences, and VOIP applications such as through Skype, Zoom or Google Voice.
What kind of Work do Virtual Assistants do?
Virtual assistants perform a range of tasks depending on the needs of their employer. The nature of work to be undertaken can be known before hand through Job postings or from clients themselves. This will give an idea on the nature of skills required. Generally, portals where VA jobs are listed have category vise breakup to ensure only relevant people apply for the position. The below list will give you an idea of the day to day tasks required of a Virtual Assistant:
Personal:
- Scheduling and managing appointments
- Managing logistics such as booking flights and hotels
- Co-ordinating daily tasks such as mail check, online delivery of groceries, prescription fill-up etc.
- Assisting is finding personal resources such as a cook or trainer
Business:
- Managing and Organizing Emails
- Managing social media posts
- Doing research on behalf of your employer
- Managing and editing articles or blogs
- Helping with Book-Keeping / Accounting
- Data entry and management
- Managing phone calls
- Creating briefs and reports
- Connecting with suppliers and distributors
The list of jobs a VA performs also varies according to the industry you work for. A virtual assistant for a book publishing company may proofread and edit copies. On the other hand, a virtual assistant for a medical company may create invoices, do market research, or find new suppliers.
Why do People / Companies hire Virtual Assistants ?
One of the primary reason companies hire Virtual Assistants is because of the contractual nature of the job. VA’s work as independent contractors to the company, rather than employees, and hence save the companies from the responsibility to provide employee benefits such as insurance, tax benefits, etc. The companies benefit from additional cost saving by avoiding logistical challenges such as providing equipment, supplies or place to work. Some contractual agreements do require clients do provide reimbursement for a VA’s expenses especially if the expense is directly related to the task in hand. However, the expense is generally minimal and baked into the cost of the contract.
Another reason Clients hire VA’s is to satisfy their temporary need of skills. High ranked VA’s often bring several years of experience from their respective field and can be hired and let go based on a project contract. This helps employers who are only looking for a temporary need of talent and don’t want to be stuck with a full time employee for a project which may not exist after a duration. Also when hiring temporary talent, clients can often work with multiple VAs to resolve their issue faster.
Skills needed to become a Good Virtual Assistant
Based on the nature of jobs described above, there are VA responsibilities which may require specialized skills and prior experience. However for most part, a person with decent management and communication skills can perform the duties of a Virtual Assistant. Prior to applying for a VA position, it is encouraged to read the job description or interview with the client to get clarity if the role suits your skillset. For example, if you are proficient in accounting or data management, a book-keeping job would suit you better than a job which requires you to assist in blog and website research for marketing content.
In general parlance , there are some skills which will increase your employability. To become a successful virtual assistant, you must be:
1. Detail Oriented
A VA job may involve working on several tasks that need attention to detail, whether it's proofreading or creating an invoice. Like any other work, the expectations of the end delivery is always high from the client hence it is presupposed that the VA pays attention to the details. This quality or skill will also come handy while creating summary reports for the employer.
2. Able to Solve Problems
Problem solving is an essential skill that is required in each job and most certainly from a VA. A client is most impressed when you reach out to them not only with the problem statement but suggest a solution as well. For example, if you foresee all flights being booked while making travel arrangements for your employer. What would you do?
Employing your problem-solving skills, you either find private agencies which hold last minute tickets and approach them for a ticket at an increased price or find alternatives such as train tickets. You can also re-arrange your employers calendar to discuss the potential of a later travel.
3. Tech Savvy
By Tech-Savvy, we mean technologically well versed. One that understands the basic of computers, is proficient in MS office and can handle basic automation features in outlook etc. The most basic VA job entails organizing emails, researching information on the internet and managing social media. Hence a hands on knowledge on email softwares (such as outlook), information forums (such as reddit, quora) and social media details would be helpful when carrying out your duties.
Also it goes without saying that if you apply for a job that requires knowledge of a specialized software or tool, then its assumed you already know about the operations of the tool beforehand. For example, if you are applying for a position of a VA required to help in graphic design, then its assumed that you know how to operate tools like Photoshop. For other specialized tools related to a particular job, the employer generally provides training and factors in the time to learn using the new software/tool for your job.
4. Good at Communication and Writing
Virtual assistants may need to connect with customers, suppliers, or employees of the business. Hence its essential to have proper communication skills. Also, VAs may need to have virtual meetings for which they are expected to be comfortable using tools like Zoom or Skype.
Lastly, it pays to have writing skills. VAs may need to write emails, sometimes to angry customers or displeased clients and sometimes even to investors or stakeholders. Monitoring the tone of the email is essential to communicate the point across and not jeopardize future relations. Hence knowing what to write, when, is an asset which definitely pays off in the role of a VA.
5. Eagerness to Learn
As with all profession, Virtual assistants should always be ready to learn. They may need to grasp new concepts and techniques for their job, or learn about the company and the industry in general to understand their duties better. Keeping an attitude of ‘ready to learn’ will add quality to the work being delivered.
Working as a freelance virtual assistant gives you the opportunity to learn and grow. You can follow an entrepreneur closely and pick up business skills and tricks. This experience can help getting high-paying and better jobs in the future.
Resources needed to become a good Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants work remotely. The basic resources they need to operate are as below:
1. Computer and Internet
A Computer along with a stable and high-speed internet connection will be the basic assets to begin with. You may also need a good headset with a microphone feature to communicate with clients.
2. Tools
Apart from client specific tools, there are generic tools which every VA is expected to have. These include communicating apps like Skype, documenting tools like MS Office, and Cloud storage platforms like Google Drive.
The employer may provide special tools to perform tasks. For example, content firms may need you to use a tool like Grammarly to proofread and edit content.
Are there any Good Virtual Assistant Training Programs?
Many VA platforms, discussed in the next section, provide training programs for beginner VAs. Also clients provide the necessary training for any specialized request and factor it in the contract.
However, if you are a beginner and a looking for a training program to get you started on how to become a successful Virtual Assistant, you can enroll in the free training program from Gina Horkey.
Gina is a work from home mom, who left her financial advisor job to pursue a full time VA career and is now a business owner specializing in VA training and jobs. Her free training has helped hundreds of people and provides an end to end guidance on how to become a successful VA, find clients, billing and even own and operate your own VA business. Her training comes with free resources such as Goal Setting workbooks, VA Assessment workbook etc.
Top 10 Places to find Virtual Assistant Jobs
Below we explore the top 10 places to find work as a virtual assistant. You can pick a site matching your needs and apply today to start working.
This is a great platform to make money as a virtual assistant. You can send your resume and join the team to work for different businesses. This platform is legit and popular with people looking for freelance VA jobs.
Nature of Work:
There are many businesses affiliate with 24/7 Virtual Assistant. VA's can help businesses with tasks like-
- Maintaining records
- Doing clerical tasks
- Managing and making appointments
- Processing documents
Average Earnings -
The platform pays an average of $10 - $12 per hour based on your skills and projects. There are projects available with high paying rates too.
2. Time Etc
Time ETC is one of the top 10 places to find work and make money as a virtual assistant for experienced people. Prior experience as an assistant helps to get a job from top employers. The platform has been helping businesses in the US and UK find assistants since 2007.
Nature of Work:
VA's can help businesses with daily tasks like-
- Helping with administration
- Managing calls, appointments, and meetings
- Creating and editing documents
The tasks vary with projects.
Average Earnings -
Virtual assistants can start earning $11 per hour by working 2 - 3-hours each day and then scale up in both work and pay
Virtual Gurus is a great platform for Canadian / US virtual assistants to earn a good income. The site caters to virtual assistants with special skills that help businesses grow. The platform is quite popular and has been featured in numerous media and news agencies.
Nature of Work:
Virtual Gurus provide jobs in many fields, including-
- Website development
- Social media management
- Generating leads and sales
- Video editing
- Administrative duties
- Customer service
Average Earnings -
You can expect an hourly rate of $18 to $23 based on your skillset. Virtual assistants can choose how many hours they want to work in a day.
4. Belay
Belay is a reputed platform for people looking to work as virtual assistants. You can get projects from leading employers for a range of duties. You can work from your home and enjoy flexible working hours.
Belay also has resources to help virtual assistants hone their skills.
Nature of Work:
VA's help businesses with daily administrative tasks and bookkeeping. Some jobs also need you to work as a social media strategist.
Average Earnings -
The site doesn't mention any rates. We did a bit of research and found you may earn anything between $15 to $30 per hour.
5. Smith.ai
Smith.ai is a reputable place for virtual assistants who want to handle business communications. You can work full-time or part-time for a range of industries. Strong communications skill is a must for this job, along with a good typing speed.
Nature of Work:
Your job will be to-
- Answer and manage calls and chats
- Taking notes, scheduling appointments, providing information
- Resolve customer queries
Average Earnings -
You can earn $10 per hour working when you start. Rates increase over time, and you can also get cash incentives and other benefits. Paid training is also included in the package.
6. Byron
Byron is a popular platform to get connected with leading clients. You can choose your projects based on what you like doing. The positions need to be interviewed, and you can work for multiple projects at the same time. The cap on the maximum number of hours worked is 160-hours per month, while the lowest is one hour.
Byron only accepts applications from US residents.
Nature of Work:
You can work in a vast range of fields like-
- Data entry
- Research and analysis
- Customer service
- Handling business communications
- Sales support
Average Earnings -
Average rates range between $12 - $15 per hour based on your skills and experience though there are projects available with high paying rates
7. Fancy Hands
Fancy Hands is another leading platform to find quality VA projects and make money as a virtual assistant. The basic requirement is to know how to use computers and common software for applying. Positions are not always open, so keep your eyes on the website.
Nature of Work:
VAs work as regular assistants on tasks like-
- Looking up information on the internet
- Making appointments
- Booking flights and hotels
- Editing or proofreading content
Average Earnings -
Fancy Hands pay for each task you complete, which is around $3 - $7. It generally takes 15 - 20 minutes to complete each task. You may earn an average of $12 per hour if you complete tasks on time.
8. Equivity
Equivity is a high paying platform to sell your virtual assistant skills. You must first pass a comprehensive selection process. You need to be from the US and be proficient in using computers and assisted applications such as Microsoft Office suite.
You also get perks for having a bit of experience.
Nature of Work:
You can work as a remote assistant in many sectors like-
- Marketing
- Law and compliance
- Executive jobs
- Business communications
Average Earnings -
Average earnings of Equivity are around $17 per hour. Your income will vary based on your role and experience.
VA Networking is one of the oldest platforms helping VAs grow their careers. The site has been in operation since 2003 and has built up a huge volume of resources. You can use the site to train yourself and also get direct jobs from clients.
Participate in the forum to finds jobs that match your profile and expand your network.
Nature of Work:
You can work in all kinds of roles requested by clients. From taking messages to researching online, the range of tasks is quite elaborate and diverse. However, you can get access to exclusive jobs only when you pay for a training program.
Average Earnings -
Earnings vary highly based on projects.
10. Assistant Match
Assistant Match is a pioneer in virtual assistant jobs. You can sign up on the platform and get remote assistant jobs. Various types of businesses use Assistant Match to hire virtual assistants.
Nature of Work:
The exact list of duties depends on the employer or project. You may expect jobs like creating documents, posting on social media, arranging appointments, and similar tasks.
Average Earnings -
You can make anything from $12 to $25 per hour based on the project you get.
4 Specialized Platforms for Virtual Assistants
1. 99 Social - Specializes in Social Media Content Writing
99 Social caters to VA related work for Social media marketing where a VA's job is to create social media posts to promote businesses and products. 99 Social does not necessitate having prior copywriting or content writing skills a priority (although it helps to get jobs if you have prior experiences) hence it's best for people without any experience.
Nature of Work:
VAs need to be create a minimum of 7 social media posts per week for clients. VAs can also get assigned new accounts with aggressive deadlines which pays higher to accommodate pressure.
Average Earnings -
VAs earn an average of $12 - $15 working from home. High paying jobs and contracts are also assigned based on experience and rating,.
2. Task Bullet - For Domestic (US/Canada) and Foreign VAs
Task Bullet is one of the best places to find virtual assistant jobs for people outside the US. VAs can work on one of the many interesting projects with clients across the world.
Nature of Work:
There are a number of tasks available on Task Bullet such as Social media management, web development, real estate, design, transcriptions- VAs can choose a job matching their skillset. There is no requirement of a college degree to pursue opportunities
Average Earnings -
Task Bullet pays double the minimum wage, as per some freelancers. However, you may have to start at a low rate and build credibility. The platform also pays bonuses and incentives.
3. Gabbyville - For Inbound and Outbound call based VA work
Gabbyville is a call-only virtual assistant platform. You can work as a virtual receptionist and help with the daily tasks of a company. Gabbyville serves the needs of a plethora of industries, like accounting, automobile, construction, and entertainment.
Nature of Work:
You will mostly take calls on behalf of your employer, like a receptionist. Your job will also include taking notes, scheduling appointments, and providing necessary information to callers.
Average Earnings -
You may earn anything between $9.50 - $11 per hour working as a remote receptionist. High paying projects also exist and can be applied for with experience.
4. Virtual Girl Friday - a Completely Women owned Platform
Virtual Girl Friday is among the top 10 places to find work as a virtual assistant as a woman. The company was created by Nancy Brown in 1998 to help businesses find remote assistants. The whole leadership of the platform also consists of women.
Nature of Work:
The types of industries you can serve include -
- Healthcare
- Legal
- Real Estate
- Business coaching
VAs may need to carry out administrative and bookkeeping tasks. Some projects may also involve working as a receptionist.
Average Earnings -
As reported, Virtual Girl Friday pays around $15 on an hourly basis
Summary - Make Money as a Virtual Assistant
In this period of Globalization, Virtual assistants provide a much needed service for people with limited budget and resources. A remote VA can help manage and solve a problem working from Vietnam for a client in the US.
There is a myth that only people with prior experience are valued as VA. There are many platforms which train and provide VA work to beginners. Also Gina Horkey's free training can groom you to become an effective VA and you can hit the ground running.
Remember - It is always tough to begin. But once you enroll and register as a VA, you will gain experience from the first job and that would build and add credibility to your name which can help your earn more and even start your own VA business in the future.
