How to Become a Virtual Assistant (Even If You’re Starting from Scratch)

Thinking of becoming a virtual assistant? You’re not alone — and you’re in the right place.

Whether you’re looking to escape the 9–5, work from your kitchen table, or finally build a business that fits around your life (not the other way around), virtual assistance is one of the most flexible, in-demand careers out there.

But let’s be honest: starting can feel overwhelming. What do you offer? How do you find clients? Do you need a website? A business plan? A Pinterest board?

Take a breath. I’m walking you through the exact steps to go from “I think I could do this” to “I’ve got clients, systems, and invoices flying.”

First, What Is a Virtual Assistant?

A virtual assistant (VA) provides remote support to businesses, entrepreneurs, or teams. The work you do depends on your skills — think admin, email management, social media, customer service, scheduling, tech setup, and more.

You’re the behind-the-scenes magic-maker who helps businesses stay organised and on track — without being in the office or on payroll.

Step 1: Understand What You Can Offer

Start with your strengths. What are you good at? What do people always come to you for help with? What types of tasks do you enjoy?

Here are a few common VA service areas to spark ideas:

• Inbox + calendar management

• Data entry + research

• Social media scheduling

• Customer support

• Tech support (email platforms, CRMs, etc.)

• Blog formatting or content management

• Travel planning or online booking

Don’t stress about being an expert in everything. One strong offer is better than 10 wishy-washy ones.

Mini Task: Make a list of 10 tasks you can confidently offer to someone else.

Step 2: Learn What You Don’t Know (Yet)

No, you don’t need a degree or certificate to start as a VA. But you do need to be dependable, organised, and a quick learner.

If you’re feeling unsure, start brushing up your skills:

• Google Calendar, Gmail, Google Drive (must-know basics)

• Canva (for visuals and social media)

• Trello or Asana (for task/project management)

• Mailchimp, ConvertKit or ActiveCampaign (for email marketing)

There are tons of free resources and YouTube videos. Pick one tool at a time and practice.

Step 3: Set Up Your Essentials

This is where most new VAs get stuck. Don’t overthink it — you need just enough to look professional and start landing work.

Here’s a solid beginner checklist:

• ✅ Professional email address (not Hotmail…)

• ✅ A simple one-page website or landing page

• ✅ A clear service list or welcome packet

• ✅ A calendar link (e.g. Acuity, Calendly)

• ✅ Social media profiles that align with your brand

You do not need a fancy logo or 10-page website to get started. Just something clean, clear, and client-friendly.

Need help here? Check out our VA websites — we’ve got launch-ready sites that take the tech stress away.

Step 4: Choose Your Tools and Systems

Once you’ve got your services defined, you’ll need tools to help manage your business. The basics:

• Invoicing + contracts: Try HelloBonsai, Dubsado, or even Canva + Google Docs to start

• Time tracking (if hourly): Toggl or Clockify

• Communication: Email + Zoom will cover 90% of it

• File sharing: Google Drive or Dropbox

Start simple — you can always upgrade later.

Step 5: Find Your First Client

This is the biggie — and the one that causes the most fear. But finding clients is totally doable once you start showing up.

Here are a few beginner-friendly ways to find clients:

• Tell your network: Post on LinkedIn, Facebook, WhatsApp groups — you’d be amazed how many people are looking.

• Join VA or freelancer groups: Jobs get posted in Facebook groups daily.

• Look on freelance platforms (Upwork, PeoplePerHour, Fiverr): Not perfect, but a way to get experience.

• Cold outreach: Identify 5 people or businesses you’d love to help. Send them a friendly, personalised message explaining how you can support them.

Pro Tip: Be clear and specific. “I help wellness coaches manage their inbox and schedule” is better than “I do admin stuff.”

Step 6: Set Your Prices (and Stick to Them)

There’s no one-size-fits-all pricing. Some VAs start at £20/hour, others offer packages starting from £300/month.

When you’re new, don’t underprice out of panic. Clients value clarity and confidence. Offer three pricing options or packages so clients can choose what fits them best.

Step 7: Keep It Human

This is your business — and clients don’t hire robots. They hire people.

Make sure your voice comes through in your emails, website, and even your discovery calls. Be professional, yes — but also warm, clear, and you.

You’re Already on the Way

Becoming a virtual assistant doesn’t require magic. Just a clear plan, a bit of learning, and the courage to press “publish.”

Whether you’re side-hustling or ready to go all in, your first step is just that — a first step.

And remember: done is better than perfect.

Want to Look the Part from Day One?

We build launch-ready websites for VAs who want to get seen, booked, and paid — minus the tech headache.

👉 Start your VA website today