ALT-1 Working as a Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants may fill a variety of roles depending on the needs of the business. Those who are interested in working from home may find this is the ideal role for them. Many virtual assistants fill positions that require little more than basic customer service skills. Virtual assistant roles are ideal for those who are interested in working from home that may not have web development or writing skills. Here are some helpful hints for working as a virtual assistant.Always ask the scope of the projectPerhaps one of the most critical aspects to working as a virtual assistant is to know the full scope of a job. Without a clear idea of what the scope of the project is, the virtual assistant could fail to produce the desired results. Since most virtual assistants depend on word-of-mouth advertising, this could have devastating results on their future.Learn how to market your skillsThose who are interested in earning a living working as a virtual assistant must learn how to effectively market their skills. There are various methods available including a personal website, blog or marketing through popular networking sites. Be prepared to have references from past clients, a current resume and contracts to provide to clients.Set up easy payment optionsFortunately, many companies who hire virtual assistants offer several payment methods. When working as a virtual assistant, it is critical to offer options. Although many companies will be able to offer payments through PayPal it may be worth checking into alternate methods such as Google checkout. Contracts should clearly state terms and conditions of payment.Pay scales and benefitsSome companies offer virtual assistants the opportunity the ability to work full-time from home while other virtual assistants have multiple clients and work as contractors. Before accepting any role as a virtual assistant make sure that there is a clear understanding of which category applies to your contract. If you are a contractor your pay must allow you to pay taxes and insurance. If a virtual assistant is fortunate enough to land a telecommuting position, they may be entitled to company paid benefits.Working as a virtual assistant involves many different tasks. Whether avirtual assistant is interested in content creationor have an interest in other types of work such as call centers, help desks or web development there are options available. With the increase in the potential forvirtual assistant roles, this can be a great home-based business for professionals.
