There are so many factors that prevent someone from taking the next step to become a Virtual Assistant. The idea of just getting started is enough to send someone into a tailspin. I’ve been there, so hear me when I say that I know starting over is scary. But I also know it’s so so worth it.
When I first became a Virtual Assistant, there was a lot of trial by fire. Like the one time I said yes to a big-name client who went down as The World’s Worst Client or the time I hired a web designer without reading their contract…only to lose $3,000 and never receive a website. I was new to owning my own business, so of course there were going to be some errors along the way. But as a former teacher turned Virtual Assistant and course creator, I’m all about sharing what I’ve learned to make your transition out of the classroom easier than mine was.
I’ve developed the ultimate checklist for becoming a virtual assistant, which I’ve shared exclusively with participants from my Masterclass. But I know how beneficial a solid starting point can be, so I’m excited to share some insights from this checklist with you.
Category 1: The Basics to Becoming a Virtual Assistant
Before you do anything else, start here. The Basics are designed to help you create the foundation of your business before you start creating any real marketing material. During this phase, research other successful Virtual Assistant businesses and explore services you’d be interested in offering. There’s a common misconception that VAs have to offer everything—and that could not be further from the truth.
I offer four categories of services: social media management, general management, website/blog management, and other more niche services that are specific to my strengths. As a business owner, you get to decide what you offer. Hate social media? Don’t offer it. Love project management? Focus on that!
Here’s your starting point:
- Choose your services
- Create your client avatar
- Select your prices
- Create business cards
- Begin building your portfolio
- Create a feedback questionnaire
- Create a welcome packet for new clients
Category 2: Branding Matters as a Virtual Assistant
This is where your business starts to come to life. A verbal and visual toolkit won’t just help your business stand out, it will give you a framework for how to write and design your marketing materials. If design isn’t your thing, that’s totally fine. Canva can be a great starting point.
- Choose colors and fonts
- Save stock photos
- Create a logo
- Write a tagline
- IF you have the additional funds, get professional photos taken
Category 3: Everything to Launch Your Website
Your website is so important. Not only does it add a layer of professionalism and sophistication to your business, but it’s your new corner of the internet to house everything you offer and value as a Virtual Assistant. When you’re just starting, don’t feel the need to swing for the most expensive template or hire a designer. It’s important to launch and adjust as needed, don’t wait for your website to be perfect before sending it live into the world.
- Create your account
- Create a domain
- Add your branding
- Create your first four pages:
- Home
- About
- Services
- Contact
- Link scheduler
- Optimize for mobile view
- Link all buttons
Category 4: Legal for Virtual Assistants
Everyone’s eyes are slowly going to the back of their head right now. Anything legal looks daunting, but this step is crucial because it makes sure that you and your business are protected. This will also help you with taxes when the time comes.
- Choose a business name
- Choose between an LLC or sole proprietorship
- Register your business
- Create your business email
Starting your virtual assistance business can feel like an overwhelming task, but my goal is to make sure you have everything you need to build and scale your business successfully. This is everything I did to get started, and having this as a resource will make your virtual assistant journey that much easier.
Want the full checklist? Sign up for my free masterclass where I’ll teach you everything you need to know to get your VA business off the ground.
