So, you want to start working as a Virtual Assistant from home? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re burnt out from the 9–5, craving flexibility, or just looking to make some solid side income—becoming a VA is one of the smartest ways to get started online. And no, you don’t need a fancy resume or tech degree. You just need a little strategy, some digital tools, and the skills you probably already have.
I started with helping out a friend with admin tasks like emails and branched into socials. The work grows with clients as you start to do more and more for them. I find they realise you have a brain and then get you more and more involved handing over tasks that feel like a no brainer to us but take up their time. It’s win win! They get more time to focus on their business and we get the work and can work from home (or anywhere!)
Sound good? Let’s get you sorted!
What Is a Virtual Assistant, Anyway?
A Virtual Assistant (VA) is someone who provides services to businesses, entrepreneurs, or busy professionals—remotely. That could mean handling emails, managing social media, scheduling appointments, creating content, doing customer support, and so much more.
The best part? You can work from anywhere, set your own hours, and choose the services you offer based on your skills and interests.
There are VAs who specialize in:
- Admin and inbox management
- Social media and content creation
- Tech and automation setup
- Graphic design and branding
- Podcast support and video editing
Whether you’re a multi-tasking queen or a spreadsheet nerd, there’s a VA role for you.
Popular Types of Virtual Assistants You Can Become
Not sure what kind of VA you want to be? Good news—you’ve got options. Depending on your skills and interests, there’s a VA niche out there with your name on it. Here are just some of the most in-demand virtual assistant roles you’ll find online:
- Virtual Phone Assistant
- Real Estate Virtual Assistant
- Virtual Administrative Assistant
- Virtual Medical Assistant
- Virtual Sales Assistant
- Virtual Scheduling Assistant
- Bookkeeping Virtual Assistant
- Virtual Executive Assistant
- Virtual Office Assistant
- Shopify Virtual Assistant
- Virtual Legal Assistant
- Social Media Virtual Assistant
- Virtual Assistant to Answer Phones
- eCommerce Virtual Assistant
- Accounting Virtual Assistant
- Amazon Virtual Assistant
- Virtual Assistant Websites (design or management)
Oh the list goes on and on but that will get you started!!
Whether you’re a people person, a tech wizard, or an organization queen—there’s a VA path that plays to your strengths.
And you don’t have to choose just one! You can work in multiple areas depending on your skills and your clients needs.
What You Need to Start Working as a Virtual Assistant (Spoiler: It’s Less Than You Think)
Before you get overwhelmed, take a breath. Starting out as a VA doesn’t mean dropping $$$ on a bunch of tech or signing up for a huge course.
Here’s what you really need:
- A computer or laptop (just something reliable!)
- Strong internet connection
- A professional email address
- A quiet(ish) space to work
- Confidence in your skills + a willingness to learn
A portfolio is great—but not essential when you’re starting. Many VAs land clients just by offering value and showing up professionally. You can build your portfolio over time as you grow your little business.
You Already Have VA Skills (Here’s Proof)
Think you’re not qualified? Think again. Chances are, you’ve already got VA-ready skills from previous jobs, hobbies, or life experience.
Here are some of the most in-demand VA skills:
- Communication and customer service
- Time management and scheduling
- Social media posting and engagement
- Content creation (Canva, anyone?)
- Tech tools like Google Workspace, Zoom, Trello, or Slack
Want to see even more? Grab the Free VA Services Handbook to explore over 275 services you can offer as a Virtual Assistant. (Yep. 275!)
Do You Need VA Training?
Training isn’t required—but it can definitely fast-track your success.
The best programs help you:
- Understand what services to offer
- Package and price your skills
- Set up your systems
- Learn how to find (and impress) clients
- For speciality areas like Medical and Law
If you’re looking for a no-fluff, proven path, check out the Fully Booked VA Training Bundle. It includes core VA foundations plus niche trainings so you can build a business that fits your lifestyle.
Where to Find Virtual Assistant Jobs Online
Once you’re ready to start applying, here are some great places to look. Your future clients will list job opportunities here and you can gain understanding of the work opportunities out there!
- Upwork (sooo many opportunities here!)
- Freelancer
- PeoplePerHour
- VA-specific job boards (like Belay, Boldly, or FreeUp)
You can also find clients in Facebook groups, business communities, or by reaching out directly to small businesses and creatives who need help. Ask family and friends as word of mouth can find you some great opportunities.
Pro tip: Having a simple one-page website or portfolio makes you stand out big time. (And no, it doesn’t have to be perfect.)
Final Prep- Let’s Get Ready to Apply
Before you hit send on those proposals, make sure you’ve got-
- A short and clear intro paragraph
- A list of services you offer
- Examples of your past experience or transferable skills
- A friendly, confident tone (people hire people they like!)
- READ THE AD!! Make sure you actually read the ad listing and answer the clients questions.
Remember: You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to start. Every VA was once a beginner.
My Real Talk Tips for Starting Out as a Virtual Assistant
There’s a lot of advice out there about how to get started—but let me give it to you straight. These are the things I wish someone had told me at the start. A little honesty and clarity go a long way in this space.
1. Don’t lie about your skills
You don’t need to know everything. Seriously. Just be honest and let clients know what you’re good at—and what you’re still learning. Trust builds trust.
2. It’s okay to say “I’ll look into that”
You don’t have to have all the answers right away. Showing initiative and a willingness to figure things out is way better than faking it.
3. Use clear, confident English in your applications and portfolio
This matters more than people think. Keep your language professional but warm, easy to read, and typo-free. (Bonus points if you proofread it twice!)
4. Don’t use AI to write your job applications
It shows. It really does. Clients can feel when it’s not your voice. A thoughtful, human-written application will always stand out in the best way.
Just be real, be respectful, and show up like a pro. That combo will take you far.
You’ve Got This! It’s Time To Start Working as a Virtual Assistant
Becoming a Virtual Assistant can open the door to freedom, flexibility, and real income. Whether you want to work part-time from your laptop or go all-in and build a full VA business, you can do this.
Take the first step today! It’s a easy as grabbing your free VA services handbook or dive into the Fully Booked VA training to start building a career on your terms. I highly recommend the VA services handbook as it will help you open up to all the areas you can work for people.
Creating extra work opportunities for yourself is a game changer. Remember I believe in you!!
