A number of companies contract with virtual assistants. These companies serve as the middleman between you, the VA, and the client. You’ll likely work as an IC and be paid based on the number of clients you work with or amount of time you log. But if you’re wondering how to become a virtual assistant with no experience, these companies might not be the best fit for you. Many of them exclusively contract with experienced VAs.
Time Etc.
However, if you come from an admin or clerical background, you might want to check out Time Etc. You don’t need VA experience here to be considered but you will need to have previously worked as an executive assistant, receptionist, or any other admin-type position. This is a pretty flexible opportunity. In fact, if you have as little as three hours to spare each week, you can apply to become a VA here.
Fancy Hands
Another beginner-friendly platform to get your feet wet is Fancy Hands. This is a unique crowdsourced VA platform. Fancy Hands Virtual Assistants all have access to a pool of client tasks. Tasks are claimed on a first come first served basis. So, you never know what kinds of jobs may be available at any given time. You’re paid per task ($2.00-$7.00). Each one should only take about 15-20 minutes to complete. Payments are issued every two weeks via Dwolla.
Upwork
Upwork is the largest freelance marketplace. There are literally thousands of gigs posted at any given time. It’s free to sign up at Upwork. However, they take a 10% cut of any payments you receive! If you start out here, you’ll want to fill out your profile completely and learn the art of crafting the perfect pitch. Ryan Robinson, the content marketing consultant to some big-name companies, knows a thing or two about writing a winning proposal. Check out his 5 Steps to Writing the Perfect Freelance Proposal to give yourself a leg up on the competition.
Indeed
Indeed is the world’s biggest online job search engine. Really, you never know what VA positions you might come across here. To see what I mean, try searching for “Virtual Assistant” in the “What” box below: