Before you begin your quest to become a virtual assistant, you need to know what you're getting into. As they say, "Don't quit your day job." Many VA's will tell you that setting foot outside of the office was the best thing they ever could have done, while other don't have the temperament for it, telling you how they couldn't wait for each of their projects to be over because they simply could not stand the stress of their assignments.
In order to be a successful virtual assistant you really have to weigh all of the pros and cons against each other and be sure that this is something you are ready, and willing, to do.
Pros of Becoming a Virtual Assistant
The moment you decide to become a virtual assistant, everyone you talk to will probably tell you how cool it is to be your own boss. You are in control of your work and nobody else (except for your clients) can tell you what to do. If you don't want to work on Fridays - you don't have to. You can off that you want as long as you finish your projects by the deadline. As your own boss, you have a lot more freedom. Plan your own schedules, choose the projects that you find enjoyable, charge any rate you please, and be almost totally self sufficient. You can even work in your bathrobe on the days you don't have to leave the house. By working solo you can also spend a lot more time with your family and friends. Finally, with virtual assisting you have a near limitless income potential. Because you work for yourself, you get to keep all of what you earn. Not a penny goes to anyone else (aside from the government in the form of taxes).
Cons of Being a Virtual Assistant
As with anything in the world, there are drawbacks to becoming a virtual assistant - such as financial uncertainty, forced self-sufficiency (you have to take care of all of your money management, you have to work on project after project if you want to have enough money, and you have to provide for your own health care.) These three factors can add up to create a feeling of terrifying risk for many people that stops them dead in their tracks, especially if they have a family to support.
There is also heavy competition in the world of virtual assisting. The internet has been both a blessing and a curse to virtual assistants from around the world. On one hand it has opened the doors to make the world of virtual assisting much more accessible to anyone who has ever thought about setting out on their own and becoming their own boss.
On the other hand though, the internet makes it very easy for virtual assistants to get in touch with potential clients and possibly steal jobs right out from under you. Because of the heavy competition as a result of the internet, you may have to start out with very low pay for each project you do as a novice virtual assistant. However, as you continue to build up a client list and network online, you will be able to make more money in the long run.
Becoming your own, independent business professional is a personal decision that involves everyone your finances effect, and it is important to ask them to be a part of the process. It's recommended that you not jump in head-first but simply ask for support, suggestions, and feedback from the ones it affects. When you make the commitment, stick with it, and go! It's never too early to start your business, and you'll be glad when you have!
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