Telecommuting Job Idea: Virtual Assistant

One of the newest jobs available today is a virtual assistant. With so many jobs being completed through the internet, having virtual office staff only makes sense. It helps companies keep down overhead, and allows more workers the flexibility to telecommute. While there are training programs to teach you how to become a virtual assistant, many people already possess the skills needed. You simply need to learn to market yourself, showing the potential employer you're the perfect person for the job.

Where to find a job as a virtual assistant: There are virtual assistant associations found on the internet that could assist in your training and job search. Some people who run home offices advertise for a virtual assistant, to help them stay organized without having to have an outside person come to their home. The VA will help them stay current by answering e-mails, reminding them of appointments, and other office administrative duties. Some VA assistant jobs may require occasional office visits, so you would need to live within driving distance of the office.

Skills you need: You should have good people skills, knowing how to communicate well both over the phone and through written correspondence. Being organized is a must, as that is the main reason most people need a virtual assistant: to help them stay organized. Good typing skills are also crucial.

Tools you need: You will need a reliable computer, with word processing database, spreadsheet, calendar programs and internet connection (high speed is best). You may also want to have an unlimited long distance phone plan, as you may be calling clients or setting up appointments for your employer all over the country, possibly even the world. A hands-free phone might also be a good investment. A fax machine is a good idea, as well as a printer and scanner (many units combine all three features in one machine).

How much money can you make? If you find a full-time position, as opposed to freelancing for a few clients, the income will vary. Some companies pay VA's anywhere from $20-$50 an hour.

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Virtual Job Basics - Using Social Networking to Find Virtual Assistant Gigs

Your goal during a virtual job search is to be noticed by local, national, and international companies that are in need of additional help. Recently, social networking sites like LinkedIn have become a hunting ground for recruiters, HR professionals, and department supervisors looking for new talent in a variety of industries. By creating a profile, recruiters and others who have virtual positions and on-site positions to fill will be able to learn more about you and contact you for an interview.

What is LinkedIn?

If you are unfamiliar with social networking sites like LinkedIn, don't feel bad. When questioned about social networking websites, most people automatically think of MySpace or Facebook - sites that are used by teenagers, college students, and those promoting music and other arts. LinkedIn is a social networking site for business professionals. On this site, those looking to fill available positions are able to research possible contenders by reviewing their resume, network connections they have made, current job status, and any additional skills they may posses.

Most people post profiles on LinkedIn as a way to build business relationships. Recruiters see LinkedIn as a way to approach passive job candidates who may or may not be looking for a new job. When participants create a profile page, they can add keywords, photos, and connect to others within the network.

Why Should I Join LinkedIn?

As a virtual assistant, part of your job is to find new clients. By creating a profile on social networking sites like LinkedIn, you can list all your skills, post your resume, connect to former and current clients that are part of the network, and list your references. This is a great resource for recruiters and HR personnel who need help on a temporary or contract basis.

You can also use LinkedIn to find companies in your area that hire virtual assistants. You will be able to find contact information and learn more about the company before calling them. There is also a job board where you can search for open positions. LinkedIn can save you valuable research time because most of the information about a company will be listed in their profile.

LinkedIn currently has over 3 million users that work in various industries. If you want to find work in a specific industry, you can search for companies using specific keywords.

How to Be Found on LinkedIn

Because there are so many profiles listed, you will need to create a profile that is unique. This means adding specific keywords that tell recruiters more about your skills. Adding users to your contact list will also increase your chances of being noticed. The more contacts you can add, the better. Ask former clients, friends, relatives, and former co-workers who have profiles on LinkedIn if they will add you to their list and vice versa.

Checking your profile once a week, making updates when you complete a project for a new client, or when you learn a new skill can help increase your exposure on the site.

In addition to LinkedIn, there are other social networking sites that cater to business professionals. Sites like ryze, ecademy, Soflow, and openBC allow you to create a profile and connect with other users. These sites are much smaller than LinkedIn, but are growing in popularity.

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