Getting Started as a Virtual Assistant

Virtual Assistant

As Founder and Director of the Golden Horseshoe Virtual Assistants Group (GHVA), I receive many inquiries from individuals wanting to know how they can get started in this field. My schedule does not allow me to respond to each one personally, so I have written this article to answer the questions that I receive most often.

VANetworking.com is another great source of information about the VA industry. It has been around since 2003, so you can probably find the answers to most, if not all, of your questions in the archives, and if not, you can post them and count on receiving a number of replies. A basic membership is free, and for access to additional information and resources, including access to RFPs, you can purchase a membership to the VAinsider Club.

If you’re not familiar with the term “RFP,” it stands for “Request for Proposal.” Most VA associations, including the GHVA, allow clients searching for a virtual assistant to submit the details of their requirements, and members can then send their information for consideration. This is similar to applying to job postings, except that you’re not looking to be an employee but an independent contractor, so instead of a resume, you’re sending a proposal.

For a more formal approach, there is the International Virtual Assistants Association as well as organizations for VAs who specialize in supporting coaches, authors, the real estate industry, or other areas. Since I’m not involved with any of these groups, I’m unable to provide any details, but you can find information about them by clicking on the link provided or Googling your area of interest.

Additional Resource

GHVA Group Founder & Director, Janet Barclay is quoted in this valuable guide to becoming a virtual assistant.

Canada even has its own VA association, The Canadian Association of Virtual Assistants (CAVA), which offers three levels of membership so you don't have to make a big investment if you're just exploring your options.

Then, of course, there are regional groups such as the Golden Horseshoe Virtual Assistants Group (GHVA), who meet in person on a regular basis. Please note that to participate in the GHVA Group, you must already be an established virtual assistant, or in the process of setting up your business.

I know quite a few people who have been able to go through the government’s Self-Employment Program and found it to be very helpful, but if you’re not eligible, there are lots of other places you can get information and advice on starting a business, such as through your local Small Business Enterprise Centre or community college, or from a business coach. There are even coaches who specialize in working with VAs, not to mention a large number of VA training and/or certification programs.

It’s not a “get rich quick” scheme, so don’t believe anyone who tells you otherwise, but if you’re prepared to work hard and to learn new skills on an ongoing basis, and committed to achieving your goals, you can certainly make a decent living as a virtual assistant.