Things New VAs Ask
The questions that come up in almost every first conversation with someone starting out, answered as plainly as we can.
Getting started
Do I need qualifications to become a virtual assistant?
No specific qualification is required. Clients care about reliability, discretion and relevant experience. Short courses help you learn tools, but your previous work history, such as office management, reception or legal support, is usually your strongest credential.
Where do new VAs find their first clients?
Most first clients come from your existing network: former employers, colleagues and friends who run small businesses. A clear LinkedIn profile that states your narrow offer helps. Marketplaces like Upwork and Fiverr can build early reviews, but price competition is fierce, so don't set your rates there.
How many services should I offer at first?
Two or three related ones. See Inbox, Calendar, Admin for how to choose.
Money and paperwork
Should I charge hourly or monthly?
Hourly while you learn your speed, then monthly retainers paid in advance for ongoing work. The rates guide compares the models side by side.
Do I need a contract for small clients?
Yes. Small clients are just as likely to have questions about scope or payment. Use the contracts checklist and have your template reviewed by a lawyer once.
How should clients share passwords with me?
Through delegated access in Gmail or Microsoft 365 where possible, otherwise a shared vault in a password manager like 1Password or Bitwarden. Never by email, text or chat.
Working week
Can I work with clients in other time zones?
Yes. State your working hours and response times in a named time zone in your contract, and aim for a few overlapping hours each day for anything urgent.
How many clients can one VA handle?
It depends on package size, but many full-time solo VAs settle at roughly four to eight ongoing clients. Beyond that, context switching starts to eat the day.
When should I turn my VA business into an agency?
When you're consistently fully booked, have raised your rates at least once, and have written procedures for recurring tasks that someone else could follow. Start with one subcontractor on one client, check their work closely, and make sure your contracts allow subcontracting and cover confidentiality for everyone involved.