Companies worldwide hire virtual assistants (VAs) to save money on taxes and cut overhead costs. This option allows them to get more done without spending extra. Plus, it can increase productivity across the organization, leading to higher revenue.
What’s more, anyone can apply for a virtual assistant job. Most employers only require a high school diploma and relevant work experience. Creative agencies, for example, may prefer to hire VAs with experience in marketing, web design, or copywriting.
Nearly half of all Americans have a side hustle. As a VA, you could work part-time or full-time and turn your skills into a profitable business. On top of that, there’s no need to leave your current job—at least not until you build a loyal clientele.
But what does a virtual assistant do and what’s the best way to get started? Let’s find out!
What’s a Virtual Assistant?
Virtual assistants are independent contractors who work for companies across various industries. Their day-to-day duties depend on the job requirements. Some VAs provide administrative services, while others specialize in graphic design, social media, blogging, or bookkeeping.
These professionals usually work from a virtual office and charge per hour. You may also choose to get paid by the day or per project. Apart from that, you’ll be responsible for paying your taxes and covering business expenses.
Most companies hire VAs to keep the costs low by paying for the specific services they need. For example, you may create and share social media updates for marketing agencies, do bookkeeping for startups, or handle the PR for high-profile clients.
Understand Your Role and Responsibilities
There are thousands of virtual assistant jobs on the market, and each has different requirements. Ideally, you want to choose one that matches your skills and leaves room for growth. But first, make sure you know what to expect in this role.
The daily duties of a VA can vary from technical tasks to administrative and clerical work. Let’s see a few examples:
- Make travel arrangements
- Write and maintain records
- Handle customers’ inquiries
- Manage social media accounts
- Edit and proofread content
- Create visual content, such as infographics
- Contact and vet potential clients
- Conduct background checks
- Write articles and blog posts
- Handle search engine optimization (SEO)
- Write down minutes from meetings
There’s no “standard” virtual assistant job—it all comes down to what services you provide.
A VA with experience in digital marketing or SEO may find work for PR firms, advertising agencies, or tech companies. If you have a background in healthcare, look for remote virtual assistant jobs at private clinics or doctors’ offices.
Find a Virtual Assistant Job That Fits Your Lifestyle
Applying for virtual assistant jobs online can be the first step to a brighter future. You would have the freedom to make your own schedule, choose your clients, and take breaks as needed.
Finding a virtual assistant job isn’t difficult. Use platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn, check the job requirements, and fine-tune your resume before hitting “Send.”
Meanwhile, browse the rest of our blog for other career tips! We’ll show you where to look for work, how to make your resume stand out, and much more.