Gearing Up To Be A Virtual Assistant

I still remember how I started as a Virtual Assistant almost 3 years ago. It happened by accident. My husband and I have our very own small store and I have my computer which I bought way back when I was still working for a call center. We subscribed for a broadband connection because we wanted to use it for students who are hiring us for typing services.

I started joining forums and I found out that there is a thriving industry of home based jobs and businesses. I started as a writer. My first mentor is Ms. Dine Racoma, she hired me to write articles. I was so happy about it. I can't believe that working at home is indeed possible. And everything started from there.

When I was still starting I felt lost and overwhelmed about all the information that I need to learn. I dont know whether I have the right tools to become a VA. I can recall the feeling of being scared of testing the new water.

So for those who are planning on venturing to Virtual Assistant business, here are the tools and equipment that you need to become a virtual assistant:

1. Computer - the most important tool of a virtual assistant. You have to have an up to date computer. In this modern time, you need to have at least Windows XP or Vista installed, MS Office or Open Office. You have to have at least huge space at your hard disk and also at least 1GB memory. I'm not a techie girl but that's what I use. Its better if you have higher memory of course.

2. High-Speed Internet - you will be dealing with your clients and doing most of your tasks with the use of the internet. The higher the speed the better. You will accomplish more tasks if you have DSL or broadband connection. No dial ups - that's way too slow.

3. Headset - Clients usually requires to talk to you over VOIP. So it is important that you have your own headset. Webcam is not required but nice to have :)

4. VOIP - I personally just use skype. I subscribed to their subscription so my clients can call me to my US Phone In number instead of calling my PH number which is way too expensive. You can check out the rates of other VOIP services as well. I found skype cheapest yet very effective.

5. Scanner / Printer - this will be used for contracts with clients or for printing tasks and materials sent by the clients.

Other things I can't live without as a VA:
Planner - to keep my schedules organized
Calculator - to compute my earnings and bills :)
Post its - for reminders
Notebook - to jot down ideas, tasks and whatever comes in to my mind
Wall Clock - solely for clients - this is my way of bridging the time zone. I have 3 wall clock at our office. For Philippines, US Pacific Time and UK Time.

Aside from the tools, being a Virtual Assistant requires a lot of commitment, dedication and hard work. It is important that you are equipped with the best attitude to make your business successful. Tools just come secondary.