Virtual PR

Although becoming a Virtual Assistant and working from a remote location is a fantastic opportunity for many people, to be really successful it is important to be efficiently set up and this is not always cheap from the outset.

You will need to purchase enough equipment to enable you to provide a good and continuous service to your clients. This means at least two PCs, probably a PC, Laptop and PDA would be ideal initially and most importantly a good back-up system. You are not going to be a home typist but a real business, which means you need to be reliable in all circumstances. You will also need plenty of office supplies such as paper, envelopes and ink.

If you do not have any spare cash then look at borrowing and speak to your local chamber of commerce or enterprise group for information on funding sources and good low rate loans. You will need a business plan in place to go this route but that is no bad thing - in fact it could be a great benefit to helping you see the bigger picture and plan carefully. I would strongly recommend you get a business plan in place before anything else. Be realistic about what you will earn before taking on any debt.

Whatever your reasons for wanting to become a Virtual Assistant (VA): You may want to become your own boss, be more independent, continue your active and highly professional working life but without commuting or other constraints found in corporate environments. Perhaps you need to be flexible with your working hours due to commitments or just want a better life/work balance or you may just want a second income. Do not ever lose sight of this, it will be your motivation & driving factor which will help you continue when times are hard.

There is no doubt that being a VA will have many benefits and fun aspects but you would be foolish to think it does not come with it’s pitfalls too. The secret to being successful is being prepared for all eventualities and difficulties. Preparation is key to success.