Starting a Virtual Assistant Business

You’ve learned of the term Virtual Assistant. You’ve determined that you’d like to give it a whirl. So what exactly do you need to get started?

These questions are not in any particular order. Remember, you can’t market your business effectively until you have the back end of your business set up. Don’t jump in and figure it out as you go. Work on it and plan. Becoming a Virtual Assistant isn’t a get rich quick scheme but it is a viable business opportunity.

As you’re planning your business (or even if you’ve been around for awhile) here are a few questions to ask yourself:

Have you researched the industry thoroughly?
Do you want to learn from some of the best VAs in the industry? (join the Virtual Assistant Revolution)
Do you desire top notch Virtual Assistant Training (check out Virtual Assistant Training)
What equipment and software do you need to add to your office set up? What sort of funds will you need to make these purchases?
What types of services will you offer and who will you offer them to?
Who is your target market?
Do you have goals for your business?
What do you need to do to set up a business legally in your locality?
Who will aid you with your taxes and your bookkeeping?
Will you market locally, online, or both?
Will you set your business up at a sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation, etc?
Will you obtain an EIN number so that you don’t have to use your social security number?
How much does it cost to register your trade name?
Have you named your business?
Will you set up a PO Box for privacy or will you use your home address?
Where will you get the contracts that you need and do you have an attorney to review them?
Who will create the content and design for your website? Will you need to purchase additional software? Will you need to learn a new program? Will you hire someone to create your website for you?
Where will you host your website and purchase your domain name?
Have you thought about what your logo will look like?
Do you need business cards right now? Do you have someone to design and print them for you?
Do you have a business bank account set up?
Do you have a business plan?
Do you have a marketing plan?
What are your billing terms and how will you accept payment?
What rate will you charge?
How will you determine which clients you will work with?
Do you need a second line for your business?
Do you have an elevator speech?
Do you have all of your marketing materials? Business cards, letterhead, marketing kit, brochures, etc…
Do you belong to any networking groups for not only VAs but also in your target market?
Have you joined your local Chamber of Commerce? Have you attended Chamber networking events?
Have you purchased business insurance?
Do you have a professional picture for your website?
Do you have case studies on how a VA can help potential clients?
Have you written a press release to announce your new business?
Have you researched your competition?
Have you recognized your own strengths and weaknesses?
Do you have a policies and procedures manual?
Do you have back up in case you become ill or aren’t able to get the work done?
Have you thought about where you will be in one year, two years, five years or ten years?
Do you have a coach or mentor?
Do you belong to a mastermind group?
What hours will you work? How many hours a week will you work on client work and how many hours on your business?
Have you defined success for your business?
Have you looked into a training program or coaching program?
What is your turn around time?
Do you have a referral bonus or perk?
Do you have a Unique Selling Proposition? What sets you apart from the rest?
Do you have an 800 number?
Do you offer anything as an added value for your clients?
Have you determined your retainer rates?
Will you require cash up front for project work?
Who do you wish to emulate?
Have you budgeted in conferences?