So, you wanna be a VA (Virtual Assistant)?

Virtual Assisting is a hot new "work from home" opportunity, promoted heavily by Tim Ferris' bestselling 4-Hour Work Week, the subject of a new e-book by Diana Ennen "Virtual Assistant: The Series" and one of the 15 Hottest Businesses for 2008, according to Entrepreneur magazine.

To be a great Virtual Assistant you need to:

1. Have a plan of action before you begin: write a business plan that covers things like advertising, pricing, business hours, equipment and supplies you'll need.


2. Choose an appealing and appropriate business name.


3. Invest in a great Web site, business cards and marketing materials to be taken seriously.


4. Be sure your computer equipment is properly upgraded.


5. Check into appropriate business licensing for your area.


6. Join associations and networking groups like VA Networking or International Virtual Assistants Association.


7. Don't underprice your services! Take into account things like self-employment taxes, business expenses like paper and ink, association dues and time off. VA's in the United States typically charge up to $35/hr.


8. Try to find a niche market based on your interests and experience: medical, advertising/design, financial and gear your offerings to this group.


9. Stay current with business trends and continue to hone your skills and offerings.

Virtual Assistants are also called Virtual Professionals and are more in-demand than ever. With skyrocketing gas prices, work/life balance issues and the trend towards outsourcing, it can be a great career field if you lay the proper groundwork and deliver exceptional work!

Image Source Flickr.
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