Starting a Virtual Assistant career seems easy. There are many free resources like YouTube you can learn the skills from or enroll in paid training that will give you a detailed course to follow. My personal favorite is the portfolio-based training because not only you will learn the theories but be making your portfolio as you go.
After the training, you are ready to join the workforce. Optimize your resume, portfolio and sign up for freelancing platforms. Send proposals to the job post that you're interested in and match your skills. Some freelancers send a lot of project proposals but never get hired.
What's the difference? Niche!
What is a Niche?
According to dictionary.com, a niche is a place or position suitable or appropriate for a person or thing.
You may have finished a Virtual Assistant course but still won't land a job because your services are too broad. They say Go NICHE OR GO HOME. We should find our niche to specialize in our Virtual Assistance tasks.
Steps in Finding Your Niche
Step 1: Find Your Passion
From all the Virtual Assistant tasks you learned, ask yourself: Which one did you enjoy doing the most? What skills are you good at doing? What do you love doing in your everyday life?
Step 2: Make a List, and Narrow Them Down.
There are many factors you can consider when narrowing down your list.
Pick the client with a business that aligns with your mission, vision, and goals.
The nature of business they have.
The tasks that you are passionate about.
Is the client the kind of person that inspires you?
Do you see yourself working for this particular client or business?
Do you see yourself working with this niche for a long time?
Is the working hour suitable for you?
Step 3: Do an In-Depth Research and Learning on the Chosen Niche
The digital world develops fast. Always upskill yourself. Learn how to adapt to change.
Marketable Virtual Assistant Niches
Administrative Assistant
Data Entry and Transcription
Customer Support
Social Media Management
Graphic Design
Digital Marketing
Email Marketing
Bookkeeping
Copy, Article, Blog Writing
Web Development, Web Design
Ads Management
Podcast Management
Project Management
Search Engine Optimization
Lead Generation
Real Estate Virtual Assistant
If you are still undecided about what niche you will pursue, that's okay. Most newbies start as Administrative Virtual Assistants because it is the most manageable. Picking your niche is hit-and-miss. Don't be afraid to try and analyze it. Take time and contemplate if the job is suitable for you. If not, move on to the next.