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Start Your Virtual Assistant Business in the UK: A Complete Guide

Kurt Graver January 7, 2024 Business Start-up Guides

Are you considering starting your virtual assistant (VA) services company? With remote work exploding, demand for online administrative support has remained the same. Whether you want to begin small as a solopreneur or eventually oversee a team of virtual assistants, this comprehensive guide covers all the key steps for building a thriving British VA business. 

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the growth of remote work, forcing many businesses to embrace distributed teams and virtual collaboration. As companies realise the cost and efficiency benefits of outsourcing administrative tasks, the market for virtual assistants rises swiftly. 

Some projections estimate the global virtual assistant industry will reach £5.9 billion by 2028, expanding at an impressive 33% CAGR. This presents a prime opportunity for tech-savvy, organised individuals to establish home-based VA businesses serving clients across the UK and even worldwide.

While launching a VA company does require diligence and planning, the potential rewards are immense. From flexible hours to high earnings potential and the ability to work remotely from anywhere, becoming a virtual assistant allows you to build a scalable business aligned with your lifestyle. 

This guide will walk through the key steps for UK entrepreneurs interested in starting their own successful virtual assistant services venture, including:

• Identifying your niche and offerings
• Structuring your business 
• Building an online presence  
• Setting competitive rates
• Acquiring clients  
• Optimising operations
• Expanding your team

Follow this plan, and you’ll be well on your way to establishing a thriving VA services firm.

Step 1: Identify Your Niche and Offerings 

Virtual assistants handle diverse administrative, technical and creative tasks for clients. As you start planning your VA business, narrow down the specific services you will provide based on your skills, interests and experience.  

Some examples of popular VA service offerings include:

• Email and calendar management
• Travel and event planning 
• Customer service  
• Social media assistance
• Blog writing and content creation
• Graphic design
• Bookkeeping 
• Website maintenance
• SEO and online marketing

Consider developing specialised expertise in one or two areas where you excel rather than trying to be a generalist. This could involve focusing on an industry like healthcare, law or real estate. Gradually expand your service list once your VA business matures.

Craft a capabilities overview that briefly explains your offerings to prospective clients. This will enable clear communication of your value proposition. 

Step 2: Structure Your Business

Like any UK small business, your virtual assistant services firm needs proper legal structuring and paperwork from the start. Here are some key steps:

Choose a business structure: Common options for UK startups include sole trader, partnership, limited liability partnership (LLP), private limited or public limited company. Each structure has different regulations, so consult an accountant to select what’s right for your firm based on liability, taxes and ownership.

Register your company: Once you decide on a business structure, officially register your VA services venture with Companies House and HMRC. This makes your enterprise legal and allows you to pay taxes appropriately.   

Open a business bank account: Even if you initially operate as a solopreneur from your home office, establish a separate business banking account. This keeps your company finances organised as you earn income from clients.

Acquire insurance: To safeguard against risks or liabilities, secure necessary small business insurance coverage like professional indemnity and public liability. Having adequate insurance protects your assets if clients ever have complaints. 

Consider becoming VAT registered if your turnover exceeds £85,000, enabling you to reclaim VAT on certain business-related purchases.

Step 3: Build an Online Presence   

Given virtual assistants deliver all services remotely, having a professional online presence is obligatory for attracting clients and conveying credibility. These are some top priorities:

Create a website: Your dedicated website allows prospective customers to understand your precise offerings, experience, credentials and unique value. Showcase client testimonials and include an easy contact form for inquiries.  

Leverage freelancing platforms: Besides a primary website, establish profiles on popular freelance sites and VA directories like PeoplePerHour, FlexJobs and FreeeUp. These enable new client acquisition as you build reviews. 

Be active on social media: Maintain updated business pages on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and other major platforms. Share content demonstrating your capabilities and regularly interface with connections. Social can greatly bolster brand visibility and lead generation.   

Step 4: Set Your Rates  

One of the appealing benefits of running a virtual assistant business is earning substantial income while working flexibly from home. But first, you need to price your various services strategically. 

Typical pricing models for VAs include:

• Hourly rates: Ranging from ~£20 per hour for basic admin tasks to ~£70+ per hour for specialised expertise. Can charge higher premiums for urgent requests.
• Monthly retainers: Such as a fixed recurring fee each month for a defined set of regular tasks. Provides income stability.  
• Per project pricing: Quote a flat rate per individual project. Allows price customisation based on the effort required.
• Tiered packages: Offer basic, pro and premium service tiers with rates rising based on features/benefits included. 

Research competitor pricing on platforms like PeoplePerHour and Upwork when establishing hourly, project or package rates. Consider your experience level, unique value proposition, overhead expenses, target profit margins and cost of living requirements. Routinely evaluate and adjust pricing as needed.

Step 5: Acquire Clients

Of course, expertly delivering exceptional virtual assistance means nothing without clients to provide services to.

Here are powerful strategies for attracting new VA clients once you formally launch your business:

Offer free consultations: Brief free calls allow leads to share their needs and assess if you’re the right fit. Converts many into paying customers.

Network extensively: Attend local small biz events and conferences to connect with potential clients face-to-face. The personal touch sparks business relationships.  

Leverage your contacts: Email everyone in your network, explaining your new VA venture and services. Ask if they know any entrepreneurs needing support. 

Run promotions: For example, offer 10% off to the first ten new clients. Discounted intro deals incentivise sign-ups.

Enable referrals: Set up an official referral rewards program where you provide kickbacks or special perks to existing clients who recommend your firm to others. Viral word-of-mouth is hugely impactful. 

Step 6: Optimise Your Operations

Delivering exceptional virtual support starts with optimised internal operations. Some tips for maximising productivity and systematising repetitive tasks:

Adopt project management tools: Platforms like Asana, Trello , and Basecamp enable smoother collaboration with remote teams and transparency for clients.  

Automate what you can: Use software like Zapier to automate sending follow-ups, scheduling social posts and other admin workflows. This boosts efficiency.   

Create knowledge bases: Maintain centralised wikis and cloud repositories documenting standard procedures for completing regular client requests. Enables speed and consistency.

Schedule effectively: Careful calendar management ensures sufficient client work and business development time.  Don’t overcommit your days.  

Refine systems continually: Continually evaluate what tools and processes work best for your unique offering. Refresh systems to leverage innovations and eliminate friction points.

Step 7: Expand Your Virtual Team  

Many successful virtual assistants eventually reach maximum capacity, handling all client work. When you get to this point, it’s time to start building your own distributed team!

The benefits of having additional virtual assistants on your team include:

• Ability to accept more clients and projects  
• Offer a wider range of services 
• Improved responsiveness to clients  
• Deliver deeper specialisation and expertise

Begin gradually by designating an assistant VA focused purely on administrative tasks or a junior specialist in fields like IT or marketing. From there, you can strategically add roles.   

To ensure harmony once your distributed workforce grows, implement practices like: 

• Regular team meetings and open communication 
• Cross-training among assistants  
• Consistent tooling and documented processes
• Scheduled one-on-one check-ins with each team member
• Recognition for rewarding outstanding contributions   

Launching a thriving virtual assistant business enables UK entrepreneurs and professionals to capitalise on booming remote work demand and build highly flexible livelihoods. You can establish a prospering company with immense growth potential by identifying your niche, optimising operations, mastering marketing, and providing exceptional assistance.

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How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business? | Complete Guide

Are you looking to start a virtual assistant business ? It’s a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are highly organized and enjoy supporting others. Whether you’re a skilled administrator or have expertise in specific areas like social media management or graphic design, starting a virtual assistant business can be a lucrative venture.

In this complete guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to start a virtual assistant business in the UK. From defining your niche and developing a business plan to establishing a strong online presence, we’ll cover all the essential steps to help you launch and grow a successful virtual assistant business .

Starting a virtual assistant business requires careful planning and execution. You need to identify your target market, define your services, and create a solid business plan. It’s crucial to understand the industry and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies to provide the best possible service to your clients.

So, if you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey, let’s dive in and explore how to start a virtual assistant business in the UK!

What is a Virtual Assistant?

A virtual assistant , also known as a VA, is a contractor who provides administrative support and completes various tasks remotely for small businesses . Virtual assistants work from anywhere and have the flexibility to manage multiple clients. The role of a virtual assistant can be customized based on skills and services offered, covering tasks like email and calendar management, customer service, billing, social media management, and more.

Virtual assistant services are in high demand as businesses look for flexible and cost-effective solutions to meet their administrative needs. Whether it’s managing appointments and emails, handling customer inquiries, or assisting with social media accounts, virtual assistants offer a wide range of services to support businesses in various industries.

Hiring a virtual assistant provides several benefits, including:

• Flexible availability : Virtual assistants can work on a part-time or project basis, allowing businesses to scale up or down according to their needs.
• Cost-effective : By outsourcing administrative tasks to a virtual assistant, businesses can save on overhead costs associated with hiring full-time employees.
• Expertise: Virtual assistants often specialize in specific areas, such as marketing, bookkeeping, or social media management, providing businesses with access to specialized skills.
• Time savings: Delegating administrative tasks to a virtual assistant allows business owners and managers to focus on core activities and strategic decision-making.

Whether you’re a small business owner looking to free up time or a busy professional seeking assistance with day-to-day tasks, hiring a virtual assistant can help streamline your operations and increase productivity.

Next, let’s explore the wide range of services offered by virtual assistants in more detail.

Case Study: Successful Virtual Assistant Service Provider

In the next section, we will explore the various services offered by virtual assistants in more detail, providing insights into their versatility and how they can cater to different business needs.

Services Offered by Virtual Assistants

Virtual assistants provide a wide range of services tailored to their skills and interests. Whether you need assistance with general administrative tasks or require specialized expertise, virtual assistants are equipped to support your business needs. Here are some of the common services offered by virtual assistants:

• Email and calendar management : Virtual assistants can efficiently handle email correspondence and manage your schedule, ensuring you stay organized and never miss an important appointment.
• Customer service : Virtual assistants can handle customer inquiries, provide support, and ensure a seamless customer experience.
• Billing and bookkeeping: Virtual assistants can assist with invoicing, tracking expenses, and maintaining financial records, keeping your finances in order.
• Business marketing : Experienced virtual assistants can help develop and execute marketing strategies , including social media management, content creation, and email marketing campaigns.
• Social media management : Virtual assistants can handle social media accounts, creating engaging content, scheduling posts, and monitoring engagement to help build and maintain your online presence.
• Content creation : Skilled virtual assistants can write blog posts, articles, and website content to enhance your online visibility and attract new customers.
• Graphic design : Virtual assistants with graphic design expertise can create visually appealing graphics, logos, and marketing materials to support your brand image.
• Website maintenance : Virtual assistants can manage your website, ensuring it remains up-to-date, optimizing for search engines, and resolving any technical issues.
• Research: Virtual assistants can conduct thorough research on various topics, providing valuable insights and information to support your business decisions.

With such a diverse range of services available, virtual assistants offer a flexible and affordable solution for businesses looking to outsource specific tasks or access specialized skills. Whether you need assistance with day-to-day administrative tasks or require expertise in a specific area, virtual assistants can customize their services to meet your unique requirements.

As businesses increasingly recognize the benefits of virtual assistant outsourcing , the virtual assistant industry continues to grow, with numerous companies and professionals providing top-notch virtual assistant services . When searching for the best virtual assistant company, consider factors such as their reputation, experience, and client testimonials to ensure you choose a reliable and trusted partner for your business needs.

How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business in 6 Steps?

Starting a virtual assistant business requires careful planning and execution. By following these six steps, you can set yourself up for success in the virtual assistant industry.

Define Your Services and Niche

Create a business plan, set up your legal structure, establish a professional online presence, market your services, deliver excellent service and expand your client base.

By following these steps, you can lay a solid foundation for your virtual assistant business and increase your chances of long-term success.

Marketing and Growing Your Virtual Assistant Business

Once your virtual assistant business is up and running, it’s essential to focus on marketing and growing your client base. Effective marketing strategies can help you establish a strong presence in the virtual assistant industry and attract new clients. Here are some key steps to market and grow your virtual assistant business:

Create an Online Portfolio or Website

One of the first steps in marketing your virtual assistant business is to create an online portfolio or website. This will serve as a showcase for your services and allow potential clients to learn more about your skills and expertise. Include information about the services you offer, your qualifications, testimonials from satisfied clients, and contact details so that interested clients can reach out to you easily.

Remember to use search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to increase the visibility of your website. Research keywords relevant to your virtual assistant services and incorporate them strategically in your website content to improve your search engine rankings.

Utilize Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms like LinkedIn can be powerful tools for networking and marketing your virtual assistant business. Create a professional LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills, experiences, and achievements as a virtual assistant. Join virtual assistant communities and groups, participate in discussions, and share valuable insights and resources to establish yourself as an industry expert.

Consider creating engaging content such as blog posts, articles, or videos related to virtual assistance to share on your social media platforms. This will help attract potential clients and establish your credibility in the field.

Build a Strong Brand Identity

In a competitive market, building a strong brand identity is crucial to stand out from the crowd. Develop a unique brand image that reflects your values, strengths, and the services you offer. Create a logo and use it consistently across all your marketing materials, including your website, social media profiles, and email communications.

Also, consider creating a catchy and memorable name for your virtual assistant business. Brainstorm different virtual assistant business names that align with your brand identity and resonate with your target audience. Your business name should be professional, relevant, and easy to remember.

Seek Client Feedback

Client feedback is invaluable in growing your virtual assistant business. It helps you understand your strengths and areas for improvement, while also building trust and credibility with potential clients. Regularly communicate with your clients and ask for their feedback on the services you provided. Use their testimonials and positive experiences to showcase your expertise to potential clients.

Provide Outstanding Service

A satisfied client is more likely to recommend your virtual assistant services to others. Focus on delivering outstanding service to every client, exceeding their expectations whenever possible. Promptly respond to client inquiries, meet deadlines, and pay attention to detail in all your tasks. Going the extra mile for your clients will help you build a loyal client base and attract new clients through positive word-of-mouth.

By implementing these marketing strategies and providing exceptional service, you can effectively market and grow your virtual assistant business. Remember to continuously adapt and refine your marketing strategies based on the needs of your target audience and changes in the virtual assistant industry.

Starting a virtual assistant business in the UK can be a rewarding and flexible career choice for individuals with strong organizational and communication skills. By following a well-defined plan, developing a comprehensive business plan, and implementing effective marketing strategies, you can establish and grow a successful virtual assistant business.

Remember to adapt to changing market trends and technologies, continuously seek feedback from clients, and strive to provide exceptional service. Emphasize your unique skills and expertise to differentiate yourself in the competitive virtual assistant industry.

To help you get started, you can find various resources online, including free virtual assistant business plan templates in PDF format. These templates provide a structured framework to outline your goals, target market, pricing strategy, and more, ensuring a solid foundation for your virtual assistant business.

How can I market and grow my virtual assistant business?

To market and grow your virtual assistant business, you can create an online portfolio or website to showcase your services, leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn for networking, utilize SEO techniques to increase visibility, build a strong brand identity, seek client feedback, and provide outstanding service.

Can I start a virtual assistant business from home?

Yes, starting a virtual assistant business from home allows you to have a flexible career path and work remotely for clients.

What are some popular virtual assistant companies?

Some popular virtual assistant companies include Belay Solutions, Time Etc, Fancy Hands, and Worldwide101.

Do I need a virtual assistant business plan?

While not mandatory, having a virtual assistant business plan can help you outline your goals, target market, pricing structure, marketing strategies, and financial projections.

Is a virtual assistant business profitable?

Yes, a virtual assistant business can be profitable. The profitability of a virtual assistant business depends on factors such as your skillset, experience, niche focus, pricing strategy, and ability to attract and retain clients. Many virtual assistants find success by offering specialized services, building long-term client relationships, and effectively managing their time and resources.

How do beginners start as virtual assistants?

Beginners can start as virtual assistants by identifying their skills and expertise, defining their services and target market, setting competitive rates, creating a professional online presence, networking with potential clients, and providing exceptional service to build a strong reputation in the industry. It’s also beneficial to invest in training and resources to enhance your skills and knowledge.

How much does it cost to start a virtual assistant business?

The cost of starting a virtual assistant business can vary depending on how you choose to structure your pricing and operate your business. If you charge £15 per hour, your costs would be directly tied to the number of hours you work, while a yearly estimate of £29,250 would cover annual expenses including technology tools, marketing, training, insurance, website development, and other operational costs. It’s essential to carefully consider your pricing strategy and expenses to determine the most effective approach for your virtual assistant business.

Can you work your own hours as a virtual assistant?

Yes, one of the attractive aspects of working as a virtual assistant is the flexibility to set your own hours and work schedule. Virtual assistants can often choose when and where they work, as long as they meet client deadlines and expectations. This flexibility allows virtual assistants to balance work with other responsibilities and commitments while still delivering high-quality services to clients.

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BECOME A BOOKED OUT VIRTUAL ASSISTANT - FREE TRAINING!

Free Checklist & Starter Kit

business entrepreneurship virtual assisting

Free virtual assistant business plan template, abbey ashley.

If you’re looking for a free Virtual Assistant business plan template, you’re in the right place sweet cakes.

Well, kind of.

Let’s be honest here.

I don’t ACTUALLY believe that you need a business plan to start a Virtual Assistant business.

I know, right?

Here’s the thing…

You don’t necessarily need a business plan in the traditional way that most people talk about business plans.

Generally, you need a business plan when you’re looking at taking out some kind of funding, trying to get a loan or investment, or you’re going into some kind of a partnership agreement.

Do you need ANY of that to start your own at-home VA business?

Being able to start a Virtual Assistant business is so simple that typically you don’t need any outside funding.

Most Virtual Assistants are able to bootstrap their business, which means you don’t need the formal 20-page business plan that most people SAY you need whenever you’re starting a business. You don’t need that.

What you DO need, though, is a plan. 

A plan on how to set up your business. A plan on how to price and package your services. A plan on how to market your business.

And that’s what I’m here to give you today!

So while you may have stumbled upon this blog looking for a business plan… what you’re actually going to get today is my anti-business plan.

Table of Contents

There are actually only two steps in my anti-business plan.

Here they are:

Step 1: Follow a step-by-step template of what you need to do to get your business rolling and to start getting clients.

Step 2: Set goals for yourself so you can project where your business is going in the next 12 months. 

Let’s dive into each one in full detail.

First, we’re going to follow a step-by-step template of what you need to do to get your business rolling and to start getting clients.

One of the most important things you can do when you are starting a new business is to follow the steps of someone who has successfully gone before you.

You wouldn’t build a house without a blueprint, right?

You wouldn’t bake for the first time ever without a recipe, right?

You wouldn’t try to put together that crazy new Christmas toy with 10,000 pieces on Christmas Eve with no instructions, right!?

Ok… maybe I’ve done that last one before. I digress…

If you are going to start a virtual assistant business, I suggest taking the advice of successful VA’s who have already done this thang.

That’s why I created my VA Checklist & Starter Kit . It’s LITERALLY a step by step list of everything you need to get your VA business set up correctly.

Let’s go over the main points of the checklist.

Step 1: Select the services you’re going to offer as a Virtual Assistant.

Can you answer customer service emails?

What about setting appointments or taking phone calls?

Can you write social media updates or a blog post?

There are SO many services that you can offer as a virtual assistant. Don’t be overwhelmed by all of the things you *don’t* know how to do. Even one or two services done REALLY well could make the perfect online service business.

So write it out – what can you do that would be helpful to a small business owner? I recommend checking out my list of 50 services you can offer as a Virtual Assistant to get an idea of what types of tasks are possible.

Whatever it is you choose to offer as a service, be sure to decide that before you start marketing your business.

Click here for a list of 50 services you can offer as a Virtual Assistant. 

Step 2: Choose an hourly rate or put your services into different packages.

A package enables clients to see exactly what you offer in a really clear format.

Part of your Virtual Assistant Business Plan needs to include what you’re actually going to offer!

You may choose to do packages of hourly services. This would mean that a client would buy a package of hours to use throughout the month. All of your services would be included in those hours.

For example, a Virtual Assistant might say he or she offers 10 hours of virtual assistance in a package for anywhere between $300 – $400. This package then comes out to a $30 – $40 hourly rate.

Here is how your hourly virtual assistant packages pay look:

You may choose to do “package based pricing”. Packages are amazing because they enable you to get paid more per hour as you get faster at your job. With this type of pricing – the client isn’t as concerned with how many hours it takes you to get the job done. The main appeal is that you are getting a specific result for your client.

Krystal Clark from Krystal Clark Creative has a Dubsado Setup Package that helps wedding photographers get their onboarding process to a seamless state. This is a one-time payment package, with payment plan options.

If you don’t want to have prices listed on your website, that is totally fine. Some VAs choose to say “prices starting at” on their website so they weed out clients who can’t afford their rates, but aren’t locked into a certain price before having a discovery call.

Kristiina Craven showcases her services and the value that they bring without locking herself into a specific price.

Click here  for more information about how to price your services.

Step 3: determine how much time you can commit to your business..

Every week, I suggest starting your week by making a task list and blocking off blocks of time on your calendar. Even one hour a day can make a HUGE difference when it comes to building your business.

When are the chunks of times you’re going to work on your business?

Are you going to wake up a few hours earlier?

Stay up a few hours later?

Work during nap time or your lunch break at work?

The truth of the matter is, you aren’t going to FIND time to work on your business.

You will have to MAKE time.

You need to decide how much time you can realistically commit, and that’s going to help you determine how much money you can make in your business.

Step 4: Pick a name for your business.

Hear me out.

I KNOW you want to choose something that’s fun or unique, but don’t get so stuck on the name that you don’t move forward .

I see so many people getting caught up on their business name that they spend three months thinking of options and then never just GET STARTED ALREADY.

Don’t be that guy.

I was able to replace my income with my business, and my business name was simply “Abbey Ashley Virtual Assistance.”

So fancy, right?

So, don’t get too caught up on trying to think of something super, super fun and fancy. Just choose a name, and get started with it.

This is why my Virtual Assistant Business Plan is really an anti-business plan. I’m not all about getting you caught up in the details that prevent you from starting. Let’s do what you NEED to do and get started!

Make sure that you secure the domain name for your business name. I love using Namecheap —it is my favorite place to purchase domains.

Also, you will want to head over to the USTPO website or Trademarkia to ensure your business name and domain are not trademarked.

As you’re doing all of this, you might want to go ahead and secure your social media channels. Make sure your Facebook Page says “Facebook.com/AbbeyAshley” (or /your business name). Go ahead and secure your Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn profiles, if you’re able to.

Learn how to choose a name for your Virtual Assistant business with this helpful post!

Step 5: decide on your processes..

Imagine, you have your first client that says, “Yes, I want to hire you!”

After you’ve run around your house screaming in excitement, what are your next steps?

There are several things that you’ll need to decide.

• How will I invoice my clients?
• Are payments due on receipt?
• How often will we meet together?
• Will we do a phone, in person or video chat when we meet?
• How will my clients hand off tasks to me?
• What kind of contract will I have and how will they sign it?
• What will be my working hours? What will be my turn around time for projects?
• How will you ask for testimonials/referrals for your clients?
• Will you track time? If so – what tool will you use?

There are SO many choices to make when it comes to running your business. That’s why I recommend downloading this 53 page Resources Guide with all of my favorite TOOLS to use as a virtual assistant.

Step 6: Set Up the Legalities.

The very first “legal” thing you’ll want to do for your business is set up an EIN number.

There are services that you can pay to do this for you but it is SO easy peasy that you really can do it yourself!

Here is a link you can use to set up your own EIN number.

You can also check more details on how to get an EIN Number at LLC Formations . You’re going to use this EIN number for tax paperwork instead of your social security number.

Sweet Baby Jesus, please don’t give your social security number out to people.

You’ll want to use your EIN number instead.

Again, it’s totally free. No excuses!

Remember, you’ll also need that EIN number in order to get your business checking account . Your business finances should be separate from your personal finances, and you’ll need an EIN number to set up a business checking account.

You’ll also need to decide if you want to set up an LLC for your business, or not.

While I suggest every person sets up an LLC eventually, you have to decide when the right time is for you.

Got all that? I know it’s a lot but you’ve got this! Remember to download my Business Plan Template to get all this info in PDF format! 

Now, Let’s Set Goals.

Like I mentioned before, goals are a part of what would be in a normal business plan, but it doesn’t have to be quite so formal.

I love having a 12-month goal sheet I can look at month-by-month. Here’s what mine looks like:

Divide Annual Goal into Monthly Goals

You know, it’s easy to get overwhelmed if you’re like, I want to start making $2,000 – $5,000 per month in my business. And maybe that’s your goal by the end of the year. But it’s SO much easier if you say, this month I want to set up my business structure, I’ll start marketing next month, and then I’ll get my first client in the month after that.

As you start to break it apart, it becomes so much easier to picture that goal of making $2,000 – $5,000 per month.

So, make sure you download your goal spreadsheet , and start planning those goals!

Don’t worry about everybody else’s goals! It’s okay if what you want looks different from what other people want.

Your life situation is different than other people’s. So don’t get overwhelmed with all these people saying they’re making $10k – $20k online per month.

You focus on what you need and what your goals are for you and your family.

I want you to close your eyes for a second and think about these questions.

What do I want…

• …my life to look like one year from now?
• …to wake up and be doing?
• …to offer as services?
• …my family life to look like?
• …my financial situation to look like?

Get a clear mental picture of your answers to the above questions, and then work backward whenever you’re figuring out your goals.

What do I do next?

I hope that you enjoyed this super detailed Virtual Assistant Business Plan. It may look different than a “traditional” business plan but it’s exactly what you need to get rockin’ on that at-home business!

Next — download my free Virtual Assistant Checklist & Starter Kit to help you get your new VA business off the ground FAST!

Abbey Ashley is the Founder of The Virtual Savvy. She helps aspiring virtual assistants launch and grow their own at-home business from scratch. She's since gone on to grow a multi-six figure business and retire her husband ALL from her at-home business. It's now her passion to help others start their own VA business so they can taste the freedom and flexibility of entrepreneurship as well.

This free one-hour training combines thousands of hours of research, years of experience in growing a virtual assistant business!

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34 Comments

Thank you for sharing us. Amazing Ideas for business growth.

Hey, Hinal! Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it!

I love all your free videos!

Thanks so much, Marty! 🙂

Great ideas! Thanks for sharing these ideas. This will really help in business growth.

Thank you for the feedback! Wishing you all the best and all the growth imaginable! 🙂

Hi, I’m only just getting my head around becoming a (part-time) VA. Thank you so much for this, you make it look less daunting.

Amazing! We’re so glad you’ve found the blog to be helpful! -Team TVS

Thank for this post. I’m really happy to say it was an interesting post to read. I learned new information from your post.

Thank you so much for the feedback! I am so glad you were able to find value 🙂

I truly appreciate he wealth of knowledge you share! Bless you!

Thank you so much! So glad you’re enjoying the blog!

Amazing ideas! I’m just starting and wasn’t ready, but this encouraged me to get going! Question.: I have all the office experience, in an office! What equipment will I need to do a great job at home, too. Do I need to hone on my clerical and financial skills? I’m excited to get started! Thank you very much Ii hope you’re doing well and thriving in your my business.

Awesome! I’m so glad you found it to be helpful! You really only need any computer and a reliable internet connection! You can always upgrade your equipment later on! I recommend checking out my Become A Booked Out Virtual Assistant training: thevirtualsavvy.com/bbo

This free training breaks down everything you need to know to get started now!

Thank you for pointing me in the right direction. I’ve been struggling for a year. I quit my job to care for my mom, and I need an income. Really excited.

So happy that you’re here! 🙂

This is so unbelievably helpful! I have really enjoyed working from home while in quarantine, and I am looking for ways to shift into this work permanently. I was honestly getting a little overwhelmed by not knowing where to start, but these resources are so helpful.. EIN for free? Literally no excuse!

Thanks Abbey!

Anytime Steph!!!

Thank you for the information! I have asked so may people to just get me going in the right direction without wasting time and money on things I do not need to start a business. This was extremely helpful and again thank you for such a wealth of knowledge. Blessings to you

You are SO welcome Angela 💛💛

This is exactly the information and ideas that I am looking for! Thank you Abbey! Hoping I can do this! For my kids. 🙂

You can do this!!!

Thank you for the plethora of free resources and seriously breaking this down into such bite sized morsels that i am no longer overwhelmed but instead feel excited to transition completely to working from home. Breaking down everything into the most manageable bits is also a great running example for us to take our big goals and how to break them down into achievable tasks. So grateful for your generosity and the time youve set aside for people you don’t even know. Bless you

No problem Summer! I’m so glad I can help others in their business journey!

Ashley, thank you so much for keeping things simple. Unbelievably, I am a retired Administrative Assistant, and just starting my business. All the information provided by you will assist me in getting out of my own way and moving toward success. I am going to print the information and listen to the video. Thank you so much for being so candid.

You can do this, Rose! I’m SO happy I could help you on your VA journey!!!

Thank you for your inspiration. You are the energy I need to DO THIS!

YOU are being an inspiration by being bold and going for your dreams! You got this Jen!!

Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your super fun and simple guide. I woke after 4:oo am and couldn’t go back to sleep as my mind was plagued with thoughts of how I can have a second income and did an internet search on how to start my own home virtual assistant business… and there you were with your simple guide…Thank you so much! and best wishes to you with your future endeavours!

I’m so glad this helped you Debby – you can do this!!!

It’s a very nice and informative post, Thank you for sharing the post about Virtual Assistant Business Plan. It will help to grow the all businesses.

So glad you found it helpful!

I am living outside of the US how do i go about the legalities? That is ensuring both myself and my clients pay our taxes?

Great question, Nicola! And a very nuanced one. We recommend connecting with an accounting professional to give guidance on your specific situation for the area you live in. – Team TVS

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Virtual Assistant Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Virtual Assistant Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Virtual Assistant business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Virtual Assistant companies.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Virtual Assistant business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Kayla For Hire is a new company based in Lexington, Kentucky that offers administrative virtual assistant services. Some of these services include scheduling appointments, responding to emails, and managing social media accounts. Kayla For Hire aims to provide high-quality services and great customer service in order to establish long-lasting relationships with clients and partner companies.   Kayla For Hire is run solely by Kayla Smith, who has been providing administrative assistant services for ten years. She operated as an administrative assistant for a variety of companies, juggling a large list of responsibilities that are essential for a business’s survival and growth. After mastering multiple skills and receiving many positive testimonials and reviews, Kayla Smith is ready to establish her own administrative virtual assistant business and help clients worldwide.

Product Offering

Kayla For Hire offers a variety of administrative virtual assistant services to help companies and solopreneurs. Some of these services include:

• Scheduling appointments and manage calendars
• Scheduling travel arrangements
• Making and taking phone calls
• Writing and responding to emails
• Researching leads
• Basic accounting tasks
• Social media management

Customer Focus

Kayla For Hire will work with any companies or solopreneurs in need of a temporary or permanent administrative virtual assistant. Though the company is based in Lexington, Kentucky, the company operates remotely, which makes it available to most companies in need of these services.

Management Team

Kayla For Hire is run solely by Kayla Smith, who has been providing administrative assistant services for ten years. She operated as an administrative assistant for a variety of companies, juggling a large list of responsibilities that are essential for a business’s survival and growth. After mastering multiple skills and receiving many positive testimonials and reviews, Kayla Smith is ready to establish her own administrative virtual assistant business and help clients worldwide.

Success Factors

Kayla For Hire will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Client-oriented service: Kayla For Hire will tailor its services to meet each client’s needs. Kayla Smith will work to establish trust and a relationship before starting work so that the company knows that she is the best assistant for their needs.
• Management: Kayla Smith has been extremely successful as an administrative assistant and has years of experience in most of the tasks that clients will request. Her knowledge and skills will provide a high-quality experience.
• Relationships: Having been an administrative assistant for ten years, Kayla Smith has established a great rapport with many of her previous employers. Therefore, she has many testimonials and recommendations that will help her build a strong client base.

Financial Highlights

Kayla For Hire is currently seeking $50,000 to launch. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Equipment: $15,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $20,000
• Marketing costs: $5,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Kayla For Hire.

Company Overview

Who is kayla for hire.

Kayla For Hire is a new company based in Lexington, Kentucky that offers administrative virtual assistant services. Some of these services include scheduling appointments, responding to emails, and managing social media accounts. Kayla For Hire aims to provide high-quality services and great customer service in order to establish long-lasting relationships with clients and partner companies.

Kayla For Hire History

Kayla Smith incorporated Kayla For Hire as an LLC on May 1st, 2023. The business is currently being run out of Kayla’s home office but will move to an office location once the lease is finalized.

Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:

• Found office space and signed Letter of Intent to lease it
• Developed the company’s name, logo, and website
• Hired an interior designer for the decor and furniture layout
• Determined equipment and fixture requirements

Kayla For Hire Services

Industry analysis.

Virtual assistants are the backbone of any business. No company can operate without the administrative tasks that a great virtual assistant can provide. Traditionally, companies would hire a receptionist or administrative assistant to take on these duties. However, with the growth of the freelance/gig economy and the popularity of remote work, virtual assistants are quickly taking over this position. Virtual assistants provide all the work of administrative assistants but save companies an enormous amount of money. Therefore, these essential employees are in greater demand than ever.

Many markets and industries have responded positively to the availability of virtual assistants. According to PRNewswire, the virtual assistant industry is expected to grow at a rate of 11.79% over the next few years. This is substantial growth and just goes to show how essential virtual assistants are for companies. Therefore, there has never been a better time to start a virtual assistant business.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Kayla For Hire will provide services to businesses and solopreneurs across the globe. Since Kayla For Hire is a remote virtual assistant business, Kayla Smith will be open to helping most companies or entrepreneurs who need administrative help.

Customer Segmentation

Heritage Farm will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Small businesses
• Medium-sized businesses
• Solopreneurs

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Kayla For Hire will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Time etc. is a virtual assistant company that connects companies with a network of experienced virtual assistants. Each virtual assistant that works for the company has five to eight years of experience, meaning clients are ensured great quality work and professionalism.

Though Time etc. is full of quality virtual assistant companies, the company itself needs to make a profit, so its services are often more expensive than just hiring a virtual assistant directly. This keeps many companies from utilizing their services and finding a virtual assistant they can hire directly instead.

Upwork has been the most popular freelance platform in the world for years. Companies have instant access to millions of freelancers who provide a variety of services, from writing and translation to coding or legal services. Companies can post a job for freelancers to apply to our purchase service packages that freelancers offer.

Though Upwork has been the #1 freelancing platform for years, the platform is often flooded with freelancers that vary in their quality, and it can be hard to find the right virtual assistant for one’s needs. Furthermore, the platform can be confusing to navigate, making the hiring process much more difficult.

Fiverr is another freelancing platform that connects businesses with millions of freelancers located all around the globe. Businesses can find freelancers that offer all sorts of functions, from writing and marketing to data entry and coding. Whatever project or service is needed, a business can find a freelancer to help them out.

Despite Fiverr’s popularity, it is not a great service for companies looking to form long-term relationships with their virtual assistants. The primary form of connecting with a freelancer is by purchasing a one-time service. This makes it hard to find a virtual assistant to help out with ongoing tasks and responsibilities. Virtual assistant services are often ongoing, meaning it is not a great platform to find a long-term virtual assistant.

Competitive Advantage

Kayla For Hire will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Kayla For Hire will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Client-focused virtual assistant services, where the company’s interests are aligned with the customer
• Service built on long-term relationships
• High-quality work across a variety of services

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Kayla For Hire is as follows:

Website/SEO

Kayla For Hire will develop a professional website that showcases Kayla Smith’s experience, portfolio, and professional services provided. It will also invest in SEO so that the company’s website will appear at the top of search engine results.

Social Media

Kayla Smith will create social media accounts and invest in ads on all social media platforms. The company will use targeted marketing to appeal to our target demographics.

Kayla For Hire understands that the best promotion comes from satisfied customers. The company will encourage its clients to refer other individuals by providing discounts on future services for every new client produced. This strategy will increase in effectiveness over time.

Special Offers

Offers and incentives are an excellent approach to bringing in new customers. The company will introduce special offers to attract new consumers and encourage repeat services, which will be quite advantageous in the long run.

Kayla Smith will charge her services on an hourly basis of $20/hr. This hourly rate will remain the same no matter what client she works with or which services she provides.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Kayla For Hire. Operation Functions:

• Kayla Smith will be the sole employee for Kayla For Hire. She will manage all the contracts, bookkeeping, and marketing functions in addition to providing virtual assistance to her clients.

Milestones:

Kayla For Hire will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 07/202X – Finalize lease agreement
• 08/202X – Design and build out Kayla For Hire
• 09/202X – Kickoff of promotional campaign
• 10/202X – Launch Kayla For Hire
• 11/202X – Reach break-even

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

Kayla For Hire’s revenue will primarily come from the fees charged for the virtual assistant services.

The major cost drivers include the purchase and maintenance of equipment and the lease costs.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of contracts per year

Financial Projections

Income statement.

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Virtual Assistant Business Plan FAQs

What is a virtual assistant business plan.

A virtual assistant business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your virtual assistant business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Virtual Assistant business plan using our Virtual Assistant Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Virtual Assistant Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of virtual assistant businesses , some examples include: Administrative virtual assistant, Bookkeeping virtual assistant, and Social media virtual assistant.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Virtual Assistant Business Plan?

Virtual Assistant businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Virtual Assistant Business?

Starting a virtual assistant business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Virtual Assistant Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed virtual assistant business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your virtual assistant business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your virtual assistant business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Virtual Assistant Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your virtual assistant business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your virtual assistant business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Virtual Assistant Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your virtual assistant business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your virtual assistant business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

Learn more about how to start a successful virtual assistant business:

• How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business

• Sample Business Plans
• IT, Staffing & Customer Service

Virtual Assistant Business Plan

If you enjoy helping people and are extremely organized, then you might want to start a virtual assistant business. For many entrepreneurs and small firms, it might be the ideal solution because you have the flexibility to work from anywhere you wish, and the companies you work with receive the assistance they require when they need it.

Whether you’re thinking about how to launch a virtual assistant business or grow an existing one you will need a plan for both.

Need help writing a business plan for your virtual assistant business? You’re at the right place. Our virtual assistant business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Virtual Assistant Business Plan?

Writing a virtual assistant business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your business:

Market opportunity:, virtual assistance services:.

• For instance, your services may include administrative tasks, content creation, marketing, bookkeeping, etc.

Marketing & sales strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business description:

Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:

• General virtual assistant
• Social media virtual assistant
• Technical virtual assistant
• Personal virtual assistant, etc
• Describe the legal structure of your virtual assistant company, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission statement:

Business history:.

• Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.

Future goal:

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

• For instance, small business owners and entrepreneurs would be an ideal target audience for a virtual assistant business.

Market size and growth potential:

Competitive analysis:, market trends:.

• For instance, the voice-activated assistant or AI has a booming market; explain how you plan on dealing with this potential growth opportunity.

Regulatory environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your virtual assistant business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your virtual assistant services:

Mention the virtual assistant services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Administrative support
• Social media management
• Email management
• Bookkeeping, etc.

Describe each service:

Additional services:.

In short, this section of your virtual assistant plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique selling proposition (USP):

• For example, efficiency, multitasking, personalization, or 24*7 availability can be some of your USPs.

Pricing strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your virtual assistant business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your virtual assistant business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & training:

Operational process:, equipment & machinery:.

• Explain how these technologies help you improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your virtual assistant business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founder/CEO:

Key managers:.

• It should include, key executives(e.g. COO, CMO.), senior management, and other department managers including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your virtual assistant business, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.

Financing needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your virtual assistant business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample virtual assistant business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful virtual assistant plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our virtual assistant business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a virtual assistant business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful virtual assistant business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your virtual assistant company.

How to get funding for your virtual assistant business?

There are several ways to get funding for your virtual assistant business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your virtual assistant business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your virtual assistant business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your virtual assistant business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any virtual assistant business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Virtual Assistant Business Plan Template

Explore Options to Get a Business Plan.

Are you interested in starting your own Virtual Assistant Business?

Choosing a Virtual Assistant Software

Building a website, establishing your brand, setting up your payment system, promoting your business, managing and growing your business.

Why write a business plan?

• Business Plans can help to articulate and flesh out the business’s goals and objectives. This can be beneficial not only for the business owner, but also for potential investors or partners
• Business Plans can serve as a roadmap for the business, helping to keep it on track and on target. This is especially important for businesses that are growing and evolving, as it can be easy to get sidetracked without a clear plan in place.
• Business plans can be a valuable tool for communicating the business’s vision to employees, customers, and other key stakeholders.
• Business plans are one of the most affordable and straightforward ways of ensuring your business is successful.
• Business plans allow you to understand your competition better to critically analyze your unique business proposition and differentiate yourself from the market.
• Business Plans allow you to better understand your customer. Conducting a customer analysis is essential to create better products and services and market more effectively.
• Business Plans allow you to determine the financial needs of the business leading to a better understanding of how much capital is needed to start the business and how much fundraising is needed.
• Business Plans allow you to put your business model in words and analyze it further to improve revenues or fill the holes in your strategy.
• Business plans allow you to attract investors and partners into the business as they can read an explanation about the business.
• Business plans allow you to position your brand by understanding your company’s role in the marketplace.
• Business Plans allow you to uncover new opportunities by undergoing the process of brainstorming while drafting your business plan which allows you to see your business in a new light. This allows you to come up with new ideas for products/services, business and marketing strategies.
• Business Plans allow you to access the growth and success of your business by comparing actual operational results versus the forecasts and assumptions in your business plan. This allows you to update your business plan to a business growth plan and ensure the long-term success and survival of your business.

Business Plan Content

• Executive Summary
• Company Overview
• Industry Analysis
• Consumer Analysis
• Competitor Analysis & Advantages
• Marketing Strategies & Plan
• Plan of Action
• Management Team

The financial forecast template is an extensive Microsoft Excel sheet with Sheets on Required Start-up Capital, Salary & Wage Plans, 5-year Income Statement, 5-year Cash-Flow Statement, 5-Year Balance Sheet, 5-Year Financial Highlights and other accounting statements that would cost in excess of £1000 if obtained by an accountant.

The financial forecast has been excluded from the business plan template. If you’d like to receive the financial forecast template for your start-up, please contact us at [email protected] . Our consultants will be happy to discuss your business plan and provide you with the financial forecast template to accompany your business plan.

Instructions for the Business Plan Template

To complete your perfect Virtual Assistant business plan, fill out the form below and download our Virtual Assistant business plan template. The template is a word document that can be edited to include information about your Virtual Assistant business. The document contains instructions to complete the business plan and will go over all sections of the plan. Instructions are given in the document in red font and some tips are also included in blue font. The free template includes all sections excluding the financial forecast. If you need any additional help with drafting your business plan from our business plan template, please set up a complimentary 30-minute consultation with one of our consultants.

Ongoing Business Planning

Want a bespoke business plan for your virtual assistant business, our expertise.

Website Design & Development for Virtual Assistant Businesses

A Guide to Social Media for Virtual Assistant Businesses

Virtual Assistant Business Plan Template FAQs

What is a business plan for a/an virtual assistant business, how to customize the business plan template for a virtual assistant business, what financial information should be included in a virtual assistant business plan, are there industry-specific considerations in the virtual assistant business plan template, how to conduct market research for a virtual assistant business plan, what are the common challenges when creating a business plan for a virtual assistant business, how often should i update my virtual assistant business plan, can i use the business plan template for seeking funding for a virtual assistant business, what legal considerations are there in a virtual assistant business plan.

How to Set Up a Virtual Assistant Business in the UK

Updated on: June 18, 2024

Starting a virtual assistant business is now a popular choice for many people. This is especially true for those looking for more freedom, a mix of tasks, and the chance to work independently. Since full-time service might not be needed, VAs can choose when and where they work. They can pick their tasks too, based on what they enjoy and their skills.

Sections include:

If you launch a VA business, you join a wide range of people. This includes those looking to earn extra money with just a few hours weekly. It also appeals to those aiming for a career change, wanting to work from another country, or running a VA agency. So, it’s a great fit for students, freelancers, parents, professionals, and ex-employees.

Key Takeaways

• Virtual assistant businesses offer flexibility and work-life balance.
• VAs can specialise in diverse areas and appeal to various professionals.
• Launching a VA business can be a full-time career or a side hustle.
• The VA industry is growing as businesses seek skilled, on-demand support.
• Setting up a VA business requires legal considerations, branding, and defining your niche.

The Rise of Virtual Assistance

Recently, there’s been a big increase in the virtual assistant industry. It has become a popular career choice for many. Virtual assistants enjoy the benefits of flexible working hours, job variety, and the chance to work independently. Their services are in high demand as more businesses and entrepreneurs understand their importance.

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

Working as a virtual assistant allows you to have a great work-life balance. This is because you can choose when and where you work. Many VAs only work part-time for different clients. They can fit their work around their personal life, from home or any other place they like.

Diverse Range of Specialisms

There are many areas where virtual assistants can specialise. This means they can find work that matches their interests and skills. They help clients with various tasks, from managing social media to organising events. This variety makes the job exciting and fulfilling for many VAs.

Appealing to Various Professionals

Virtual assisting attracts a wide range of people, from students to seasoned professionals. It is also popular with parents who need to balance work with their family life. Those living abroad or wanting to start their own VA business are part of this diverse group too.

Meeting Businesses’ Needs

Many small and medium businesses need help but can’t hire a full-time assistant. Virtual assistants fill this gap perfectly. They provide the support businesses need, when they need it, without adding to their fixed costs. This is a win-win for both parties.

Legal Considerations

Starting a virtual assistant (VA) business means going through legal matters. Knowing about non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and data protection is very important.

Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)

When you work for clients as a freelancer, you might need to sign an NDA. This is a promise to keep any shared secrets safe and not tell others. Make sure the NDA is fair before you agree to it.

NDAs might stop you from talking about the work you did. This could limit how you show off your skills later. Always know exactly what the NDA covers, or you could get into trouble.

Data Protection and GDPR Compliance

In your VA role, you will handle people’s personal information. You must protect this data and ensure it’s not misused. This might involve legal steps, like registering with the ICO.

Remember, the data you process belongs to someone else. You can only use it as your client tells you to. Be aware of data protection laws, like GDPR, depending on where you and your clients are.

Setting Up Your Virtual Assistant Business

Before you start your virtual assistant (VA) business, do some important tasks. Register your business and get a domain name. Also, make sure you have clear guidelines and rules.

Register as a Sole Trader or Limited Company

A VA can be a sole trader or have a limited company. You need to do this with HMRC or Companies House. It sets your business’s legal status and tax duties.

Choose and Register a Business Name

Picking the right business name is key. Check if your name is available. This ensures your brand stands out.

Secure a Domain Name

Even without a website, get a domain name. This stops others from using your name online. It keeps your brand’s online identity secure.

Consider Trademarking

Trademark your name or logo to protect them. It stops others from using your brand legally. Check with the Intellectual Property Office first.

Prepare Business Terms and Policies

Set clear business terms for your clients. Include privacy, cookie policies, and website use terms. This avoids confusion and sets clear rules.

Obtain Business Insurance

Having the right business insurance is a must. It protects you from unexpected costs like claims or damage to your equipment.

Open a Business Bank Account

Kepp your personal and business money separate with a business account. It makes your finances clear and looks professional to clients.

Intellectual Property and Copyright

As a virtual assistant (VA), you’ll do work for your clients in your VA business. Clients often expect to own the work you produce since they pay for it. This is usually agreed on in your terms and conditions or contract.

Ownership of Work Produced

It’s crucial to clear ownership when you work with clients. Clients pay for your services and usually want to own the work. Make sure it’s clear in your agreement to prevent misunderstandings.

Protecting Your Own Materials

Sometimes, VAs want to keep certain work for themselves, like work templates. They should keep the copyright for these and state it in their business terms.

Protecting your intellectual property allows you to keep ownership of what makes your business unique.

Virtual Assistant business setup

Starting a virtual assistant business means thinking about its legal side. You need to choose if you’ll be a sole trader or a limited company. Think of a good business name and register it. Make sure to get a domain name and consider trademarking your name or logo.

Virtual assistants also need to set up business terms and policies. This includes service agreements and privacy policies, among others. Don’t forget about getting the right business insurance and a separate bank account. These steps will make your business look more professional.

Employment Status and Tax Obligations

For a virtual assistant (VA), what they choose, a company or solo work, matters a lot. They must clearly show they’re not employed by their client. The way they are seen affects their tax duties.

If a VA works alone, they must sign up with HMRC. Then, they handle their own tax and National Insurance. If they form a company, they deal with corporation tax and other business taxes.

It’s key for VAs to keep the right tax documents, no matter their setup. Without following the HMRC rules, they could face fines and problems. Getting help from an accountant or tax expert early on is a smart move.

Building Your Virtual Assistant Brand

A virtual assistant (VA) needs to promote themselves a lot. They should use social media and other online places for this. But, they must always respect other people’s copyrights. They also need to work on building a strong, trustworthy brand for their business.

Social Media Presence

Making a strong social media presence is key for VAs. They should join places like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. They need to post helpful things regularly, talk with their followers, and join in discussions. This way, they show they know what they’re doing. They can make friends with potential clients. And they can make their virtual assistant business stand out.

Networking and Conferences

For VAs, going to conferences and events is a smart move. They get to meet other pros, catch up on what’s new, and share the spotlight. These events help them make more connections. They also learn a lot and get seen as experts in their field.

Defining Your Niche and Services

As a virtual assistant, it’s key to know what you’re best at and what you enjoy. This step is vital for setting up a great virtual assistant service. Your choice of niche and services will shape your business’s success, making it very important to choose wisely from the start.

Identifying Your Expertise

To find your niche, look at what you’re good at and what you know. Think about tasks where you shine. Consider which fields you know well. Your knowledge forms the base of your virtual assistant business . Your niche might focus on specific admin tasks, handling social media, bookkeeping, or a mix of what you’re really good at.

Aligning with Personal Preferences

Knowing your expertise is crucial. But it’s just as important to pick work that you love to do. If you don’t enjoy the tasks or if they don’t fit your model, what’s the point? Loving what you do is critical. Otherwise, you might dislike working for yourself, maybe even want to give up your virtual assistant business .

Define your niche and services carefully. This will help you build a virtual assistant service that uses your strengths and makes you happy. It means you’re likely to get the right clients and stay happy with your job. As you grow your virtual assistant business in the UK, this is vital.

Pricing Your Virtual Assistant Services

One big choice for VAs starting out is how to charge for their tasks. They might choose to bill by the hour, by the project, or monthly. Each way has its own good points.

Hourly Rates

The average hourly rate for a UK VA is £30. But, some charge more based on their skills, experience, and customer base. Hourly rates are good for flexible, on and off tasks. It’s the go-to for clients needing help here and there.

Project-Based Pricing

If a VA prefers, they can set a project rate. The price is based on how hard and long the work will be. This method pays off well for those quick at their job, rewarding them for their efficiency. It’s often the choice for clients with clear project goals.

Monthly Retainers

Offering a monthly retainer can steady a VA’s income. Even though the pay for projects might be higher, the steady job flow makes up for it. VAs can better plan knowing regular work is coming in. It’s a top pick for clients wanting continual VA help.

When picking how to charge, VAs reflect on their skills and the benefits they bring. Finding the sweet spot between good pricing and fair pay is crucial. It’s what makes a VA business thrive.

Developing Your Virtual Assistant Skills

To succeed as a virtual assistant, you must be skilled in many areas. Communication and IT skills are vital.

Communication and IT Proficiency

Good virtual assistants are great at talking and writing. They can explain things well, answer questions fast, and send professional emails. They also need to be experts in different software and tools, like time management systems and project planning apps. Knowing how to use these tools well helps them work better with clients and be more productive.

Time Management and Organisation

Managing time and being organised are key for virtual assistants. They need to pick the most important tasks, meet deadlines, and keep everything in order. This is crucial to make sure they always meet their clients’ needs. Being good at managing time and staying organised is what helps virtual assistants do well in the busy world of working from home.

Finding Your First Virtual Assistant Client

Being a virtual assistant means needing clients. To start a solid business, you must find your first client. Luckily, there are many ways to find them. Using your contacts can be a great start.

Leveraging Your Network

Get in touch with past colleagues, clients, and industry contacts. They might know someone who needs a virtual assistant, and then they can recommend you. This method is strong because a good word from someone known holds a lot of trust.

Utilising Online Platforms

Along with your contacts, look into online sites and job boards for virtual assistants. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour let you set up a profile and bid on jobs. They are perfect for connecting with people who need virtual assistant services. These platforms help you meet freelance virtual assistants or business owners looking to hire.

Combining your connections with online opportunities can lead to finding your first client. This is the first step in growing a successful virtual assistant business in the UK.

Maintaining a Sustainable Virtual Assistant Business

Starting a virtual assistant business is exciting, but keeping it going strong requires ongoing effort. It’s vital to keep your skills and business practices up to date. This ensures you’re always meeting the needs of your clients and the industry.

VAs need to keep learning new things to make sure they stay valuable. This means being on top of tech, improving how you talk to people, and offering more services. Attending workshops and taking online courses can give you an edge over others in the field. It’s all about making yourself stand out.

Having a strong brand is also key. You need to show what makes you special and reliable through your online presence and networking. Actively posting on social media or writing articles can help. A strong brand can attract more work and keep your clients coming back.

How you get and keep clients is crucial to your business’s success. By connecting with people and getting recommendations, you can find new clients. And, it’s important to always do your best for your current clients. This means clear communication and going beyond their expectations. Your hard work will keep them coming back for more.

Source Links

• https://www.hoxtonmix.com/blog/how-to-become-a-virtual-assistant/
• https://www.auberginelegal.co.uk/post/a-legal-guide-for-vas-launching-a-virtual-assistant-business
• https://www.thevahandbook.com/how-become-virtual-assistant/

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to create a virtual assistant business plan

• Jeremy Greenbaum
• Sep 14, 2023

There are some things you can’t neglect to do when starting a business . One of the primary requirements is a well-thought-out business plan. This plan isn't merely a set of documents; it's your guiding compass in the world of virtual assistance. It's a comprehensive document outlining your business's objectives, strategies and financial projections - how you plan to make money as a virtual assistant and the timeframe. Essentially, it's your roadmap, providing direction on how to achieve success and effectively tackle the challenges unique to the virtual assistant industry.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the various components of a virtual assistant business plan, plus the steps for creating your own.

Ready to get your name out there? Use Wix’s website builder to start making a website today.

Why create a virtual assistant business plan?

A clear business plan provides direction for your business and reduces the chances of missteps that could hinder your business's growth. It helps you remain resilient and adaptable by mapping out potential roadblocks and considerations.

On top of this, a well-crafted business plan can help you raise money for your business . Investors and lenders often look at your business plan before extending financial support. A detailed plan demonstrates your commitment and understanding of the market, and boosts your business's credibility.

Furthermore, a business plan can guide many of your decisions, ranging from how you choose to operate your business to how you promote it once it’s launched. Something as tactical as your business website may draw from your business plan to define its messaging, branding, purpose and more.

Check out these service business examples to help get your creative juices flowing.

How to write a virtual assistant business plan

By investing time and effort into creating a comprehensive, well-structured business plan, you can lay a solid foundation for your virtual assistant enterprise. We’ve outlined the six main components of a plan below to help you get started:

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan.

Marketing advertising plan

Financial plan

01. executive summary.

The executive summary of a virtual assistant business plan is a concise overview of the entire plan. It highlights the key components, such as the business's goals, target market, services offered, competitive advantage and financial projections. While being brief, the executive summary should encapsulate the essence of the business plan, enticing readers to delve deeper into the document.

To write a clear executive summary for a virtual assistant business, focus on providing a snapshot of the business's unique value proposition, its potential impact on the target market and the financial prospects.

02. Business and domain names

Selecting an appropriate business name and domain name is crucial for brand identity and online presence. A strong name reinforces your virtual assistant business's mission and values, building trust and recognition among clients. Utilize a business name generator to spark ideas and find a name that aligns with your business identity.

When choosing a domain name, opt for simplicity and relevance. It should reflect your business's services and be easy to remember. Check that the domain is available and consider using common domain extensions like .com. A domain name that closely matches your business name helps potential clients easily find you online.

Note: once you’ve decided on your name and legal structure, make sure to register your business .

03. Market analysis and research

Incorporating a market analysis and research section into your virtual assistant business plan is a smart move. It helps you get a grip on the competitive landscape and craft a strategic approach that works for your business ideas or idea. Dive into your target market's demographics, preferences and pain points. Take a close look at your competitors to find those sweet spots in the market that your virtual assistant business can tap into. This info will be your secret weapon for shaping effective marketing strategies and positioning your services just right.

04. Operations plan

The operations plan outlines the logistical aspects of your virtual assistant business, including location, premises, equipment and staffing needs. Determine whether you'll operate from a physical location or virtually. Specify the technology and tools required for seamless service delivery. Clearly define staffing roles and responsibilities, ensuring you have the necessary skills to meet client demands.

05. Marketing and advertising plans

When it comes to your virtual assistant business, diving into the nitty-gritty of your marketing and advertising strategies early on is essential. In this section, think about the marketing techniques that will resonate with your business, such as content marketing, social media campaigns and advertising. Define the channels you plan to focus on—and why—relating it back to your core audience and their user behaviors.

Remember to also think about your branding plan. At this stage, you’ll want to think of your visual identity as well as your core values, vision and mission as a company. Start by thinking about the emotions and personality you want to convey with your brand. Draw up a strong logo (you can use a logo maker for inspiration) and define other assets that will help keep your branding consistent.

06. Financial plan

The financial plan outlines how your virtual assistant business will be funded initially and how it will achieve profitability. Detail your proposed startup costs, ongoing expenses, revenue projections and a break-even analysis. Identify potential funding sources, such as personal savings, loans or investors. Lay out a timeline for achieving profitability, including key milestones and financial projections for the first few years.

Thinking of starting another type of business? Check out some of these creative service business ideas  to help get you started.

Hypothetical virtual assistant business plan example: Virtual EASE Assistants

Virtual EASE Assistants is a forward-thinking virtual assistant service poised to revolutionize administrative support for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Our mission is to simplify operations, enhance productivity and empower clients to focus on their core activities. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including administrative tasks, calendar management, email correspondence and social media management. By seamlessly integrating technology and expert assistance, we aim to elevate our clients' efficiency and success.

Projected growth: We anticipate capturing a 15% market share within the first two years of operation. Our innovative approach and customer-centric services position us to achieve sustainable growth and profitability by year three.

Company and domain names

Company name: Virtual EASE Assistants

Domain name: www.VirtualEaseAssistants.com

Our company name reflects our commitment to providing virtual support that makes clients' lives easier. The chosen domain name aligns with our brand identity, making it easy for clients to find us online.

Target market: Our primary target market includes small business owners, entrepreneurs and startups seeking cost-effective and efficient administrative solutions. Extensive research has shown that this demographic is actively seeking virtual assistant services to streamline their operations.

Competitor analysis: We've analyzed our competitors and identified a need for personalized and flexible services tailored to individual client needs. This gap allows us to position ourselves as a versatile solution provider.

Location: Virtual EASE Assistants will operate as a remote business, allowing us to serve clients worldwide without geographical limitations.

Premises and equipment: Our team members will work remotely, equipped with modern technology and communication tools to ensure seamless interaction with clients.

Staffing: Our team consists of skilled virtual assistants with expertise in various administrative tasks. Each team member has been carefully selected to ensure they align with our values of efficiency, professionalism and adaptability.

Marketing and advertising plan

Content marketing: We will create informative blog posts, eBooks and guides that address common pain points faced by our target audience. These resources will demonstrate our expertise and position us as thought leaders in the virtual assistant industry.

Social media engagement: Engaging content and tips shared on platforms like LinkedIn, X and Instagram will build brand awareness and showcase our ability to simplify clients' lives.

Paid advertising: We will invest in targeted online advertising campaigns, particularly on platforms where our target audience is active, to increase our visibility and drive traffic to our virtual assistant website .

Startup costs: Initial investments will cover website development, technology tools, marketing materials and staff training. We estimate a startup cost of $20,000.

Revenue projections: We forecast steady growth, aiming for a revenue of $100,000 in the first year, $200,000 in the second year and $300,000 in the third year.

Funding: We plan to fund the business through a combination of personal savings, a small business loan and a contribution from a silent investor.

Profitability timeline: Based on our projections, we anticipate achieving profitability by the end of year two, driven by our expanding client base and optimized operational efficiency.

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How to build a successful Virtual Assistant business in the UK

• In Business , Uncategorized
• Posted on February 1, 2021 September 22, 2022

Virtual Assistant Toolkit

If you’re thinking of starting a Virtual Assistant business, you’ll be joining a growing army of highly skilled professionals, many of whom have worked in an office and often have a PA background (like myself!).

Most Virtual Assistants provide professional administrative, technical or creative assistance to their clients remotely from a home office.  And by 2021, it’s  predicted   that 24% of digital workers will use a VA on a daily basis.

Top 10 tips for starting a Virtual Assistant business in the UK

As a newbie Virtual Assistant there are many things you need to get on top of but here are my top 10 tips for becoming a kickass Virtual Assistant and getting ahead of the competition!

1. Do a Virtual Assistant Business Plan

A Virtual Assistant Business Plan will help you determine the direction you want your business to go in and help keep you on track! As the saying goes, ‘if you fail to plan, you plan to fail!’. A simple business plan will suffice and should include the following:

• your aims, objectives and vision,
• your background and experience,
• the purpose of your business including legal structure
• your marketing strategy and plan
• details of how you are going to finance your business

2. Choose your Virtual Assistant services and niche

You will need to decide what Virtual Assistant services you are going to offer. Some popular services including social media management, content creation, blogging and email marketing. The VA Handbook has written a great blog post listing 30 Virtual Assistant services you can offer.

Once you have decided what services you are going to offer you need to define your niche. A niche will help you attract your ideal client and tailor your marketing accordingly.

3. Build a kickass Virtual Assistant brand

It’s essential to build a kickass brand , if you want your Virtual Assistant business to be successful! You need to make sure your brand will attract your ideal client, so you need to choose your logo, colour palette, fonts and other brand assets carefully. You also need to nail your brand voice.

4. Do your VA website or get a professional to do it for you!

Your website is essentially your ‘shop window’ and I strongly advise you to have one. You can either build your own website using WordPress or Squarespace or get a professional website designer like Darren Strudwick who runs VA Websites to do it for you. Darren specialises in creating VA websites and is highly recommended!

He also runs a great Facebook group for Virtual Assistants called Darren’s Free VA Community.

I also recommend you have a blog (which we will come to shortly) and add a lead magnet to your website Home page.

5. Create a lead magnet for your Virtual Assistant website

Sales are the life blood of your business so it’s essential you have a Virtual Assistant sales funnel . A lead magnet is at the top of your sales funnel and is a valuable piece of content that you exchange in return for a prospect’s email address.  Popular lead magnets including eBooks, checklists and other freebies that help solve a client’s problem. I’ve done a sales funnel toolkit which will help you create a simple but powerful sales funnel to supercharge your sales.

6. Learn how to blog

A regularly updated blog will help establish you as an authority in your niche as well as help with your Google ranking. You can also repurpose blog content for sharing on social media. My business blogging toolkit will help you write SEO optimised blog posts like this one!

7. Get the legals for your Virtual Assistant in place

As with any business, you need to make sure you have the legals in place when you start your Virtual Assistant business. This includes a Freelancer Agreement & T&Cs, Website Policies, Data Processing Agreement and an Associate Agreement if you are going to outsource work to other VAs.  I recommend Koffeeklatch for your VA contracts etc. Clear Books have written a great guide about the legal aspects of setting up your business which is well worth reading!

8. Get VA insurance

It’s essential you get insurance for your Virtual Assistant business to cover you in case anything goes wrong! Most VAs work from a remote location such as their home. However, you may be employed on a contract or freelance basis and/or work out of a client’s office. I once worked at a client’s office and being a clumsy pants, I nearly spilt coffee all over their laptop! I was covered but imagine my horror if I had damaged their laptop and didn’t have any insurance cover in place!

9. Nail your pricing and charge your worth as a Virtual Assistant!

In a recent survey carried out by APVA  it was found that the average hourly rate of a VA had risen from £21-£25 per hour in 2019 to to £26-£30 per hour in 2020.

However, that is just a rough guideline as you should set your rates according to your experience, skillset and demand for your services. For example, a tech savvy Virtual Assistant with a specialist skillset will obviously charge more than a VA offering general admin services.

Remember to value yourself and charge your worth! It might also be worth buying a copy of Work Note’s freelancing pricing guide .

10. Network, network, network!

If you want to find new leads and gain new clients, it’s important to network! Some estimates show that upwards of 85% of jobs are filled through networking, so reach out to former co-workers, friends and others in your network.  Online networking can work just as well as offline networking if meeting face to face isn’t your thing (and obviously not possible at the moment!).  I also highly recommend using LinkedIn as it’s a great platform for Virtual Assistants to attract new clients .

VIRTUAL ASSISTANT TOOLKIT

For a step-by-step guide to setting up your UK based Virtual Assistant business, grab a copy of ‘ my little purple VA toolkit’ which covers everything you need to start, run and grow your VA business without the faff!

A Virtual Assistant’s secret weapon for success

If you’re a newbie Virtual Assistant based in the UK, your secret weapon for success is Amanda Johnson!

Amanda Johnson – Business Coach, Trainer and Mentor specialising in Virtual Assistants

If you want to get your business off to a flying start and get ahead of the competition, I highly recommend getting in touch with Amanda Johnson. Amanda runs VACT and is well known and respected in the VA industry. She is THE GO-TO person for VA coaching, training and mentoring.

She also runs a fabuous Facebook group called V irtual Assistant Help Desk for “Goto VAs and OBMs”

Unfortunately, there are so many charlatans out there and Amanda is the only person I would recommend!

About Annie

Annie is an ex-City EA/PA turned Freelance Virtual PA. She also runs Bijou Concierge and is a professional Copywriter/Content Writer/Blogger. As well as her best selling VA toolkit, Annie has written various other business toolkits for freelancers, self-employed and small business owners to help get things done including digital marketing, content writing, blogging, branding, brand voice, pricing etc.

Good luck and if you need any help feel free to email [email protected] . You can also connect with Annie on LinkedIn.

About Post Author

• Virtual Assistant

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How to supercharge your sales funnel with content, how to nail branding & supercharge business success, killer landing page copy: how to get that click.

How to become a virtual assistant

Our experts, written and reviewed by:.

The key steps in learning how to become a virtual assistant are:

• 01 | Understand skills required for being a virtual assistant
• 02 | Know what being a virtual assistant involves
• 03 | Work out pricing structure and how much to charge as a virtual assistant
• 04 | Consider the various virtual assistant services
• 05 | Get the right equipment
• 06 | Be aware of regulations including GDPR
• 07 | Consider your marketing strategy ,
• 08 | Find clients!

Twenty-first century life is fast. Inboxes are growing at an exponential rate, phones are ringing in one continuous chorus, and people’s patience has worn as thin as their time is spread.

Due to the expected rapidity of business, the need for a virtual assistant has never been higher – so much so that the global number of people who use a VA is projected to reach a staggering 1.8 billion by 2021.

But what is a VA? And how can you use your stellar administrative skills, networking abilities and project managing prowess to forge a new high-flying, self-employed career as a successful VA? Read on to find out.

In this article, we will cover:

What is a virtual assistant?

• How does a virtual assistant work, and what services do they offer?
• Setting up as a virtual assistant and the equipment you’ll need
• Costs and pricing
• Marketing and finding clients

A Virtual Assistant (VA) is an independent contractor who provides professional services from a remote location. This sounds similar to freelancing, except that a VA will always work from their own home office, rather than bunny-hopping around clients’ workspaces. It’s likely that a VA will never meet their clients in the flesh.

To break the term up, ‘virtual’ means that you do the work, but you’re never physically with your client in their office. And ‘assistant’ is not strictly limited to administrative tasks – it’s a broad term, covering anything from social media and email management to bookkeeping and project management.

The key to any task undertaken by a VA is that it must be doable from a remote location.

Also, a VA is an assistant to another business or business owner . Whilst a VA manages themselves and are technically self-employed, they themselves are not a company. So what’s entailed within the VA role is really dependent on who needs assisting.

See this helpful guide for an in-depth explanation of GDPR and how it might affect you going forward.

How much can I earn as a VA?

Working out your pricing structure will be a key component of operating as a successful virtual assistant. On average, virtual assistants charge a minimum of £25 per hour. Higher price points will depend on skills, experience, and the nature of the work that you undertake. Forums are a great place to see what others in your experience bracket are charging.

Make sure your prices are competitive, yes, but don’t undersell yourself either. It’s much easier to lower rates than it is to put them up. And, if the skills you have are rare, they should come in at a high value.

Sourcing, maintaining and invoicing clients takes time – remember that you’ll be working for yourself, so a regular salary is down to you to secure. Having a buffer is a good idea. Or, stay in full-time employment (and run the business as a side hustle) until you’ve accumulated enough potential clients to smoothly transition into the world of self-employment.

Price structure:

Do you want to charge by the hour, or by project? Would implementing a retainer rate be beneficial to your business (it can provide added financial security, which is helpful when self-employed)?

And remember, whatever you do charge will have to cover tax, insurance and bills (if you’re working from home, your heating bill might suddenly climb). You’ll also have to allow for savings should you wish to take a holiday, require sick leave or want to put anything away in a pension pot. Oh, and of course, make sure there’s enough for a few payday treats as well.

How does a virtual assistant work and what services do they offer?

So much more than a secretary that works from home, the VA title covers a surprisingly wide variety of skills and career opportunities.

If you’re struggling to decide on which services you could offer as a VA, start by identifying your own USP by recognising your niche expertise. What is it that you have, that others won’t?

Next, think about who will benefit from those skills – these people will eventually become your clients.

Here’s a sample list of the varied services a VA can offer:

• Editorial/proofreading support
• Website maintenance/design
• E-commerce management
• Content creation, ie: for social media and blog posts
• Project management
• Customer generation
• Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) management
• Billing/invoicing
• Email, calendar and logistics management
• Transcribing/translating
• Event planning

Setting up as a virtual assistant

Once you’ve decided which services to offer, it’s time to think about setting up. Because of the self-sufficient nature of the role, a VA must be able to support themselves in regards to tech and resources.

For a start, virtual work will depend on a strong internet connection. You should also ensure that your home office is kitted out with everything you’ll need to work efficiently, so you can deliver on the promises made to clients.

What equipment you should invest in and why:

A multi-line phone system or separate business line Nothing sounds less professional than your kids answering your business calls. Get yourself a separate business line to avoid any awkwardness.To compare some choice systems, take a look at our page on multi-line phones .

Wrap your head around the legalities, like HMRC, finances and GDPR:

First of all, as someone who is self-employed, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) need to be informed when you start getting paid.Think about how you’re going to keep accurate financial records.

Outsourcing an accountant can be pricey, but is advisable. There are also steps you can take to reduce their billable time – see this guide for further advice.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) means that as of May 2018, all businesses, including the self-employed, have to comply with certain regulations to ensure the protection and security of personal information.

As a self-employed individual, you will need to ensure adequate security measures are in place, both online and offline, to reduce the risk of a data breach.

Consent is a key requirement in regards to GDPR. It is essential that your client both knows, and is comfortable with, how you plan to handle their data.

Your client is within their rights to either request visibility of, or even withdraw, their data from you at any given time. So make sure you have the organisational infrastructure to support this eventuality.

See this for an in-depth explanation of GDPR and how it might affect you going forward.

Now you understand how much to charge, it’s important to think about how you’ll get those all-important clients. Getting your name out there and finding clients is essential to self-employment success.

Your virtual self (ie: your website and social media, such as Twitter and LinkedIn ) is how your clients will get to know you, so make sure it accurately represents you and the assistance you can provide.

It’s important to look professional to be considered professional. And, since a virtual assistant is, well, virtual, this means making sure that your virtual (online) presence is just as presentable as you would be if you were going to an interview.That being said, it’s also important not to get too hung up on making everything completely perfect before you get started. Waiting for website perfection could take too long, so get stuck in and make sure you’re always maintaining, updating and refreshing your virtual, professional self.

How to find VA clients

Wondering how to find VA clients? The answer is to market, market, market . Add yourself to the local business directories and make sure you’re forever updating your LinkedIn profile, so potential clients know exactly what you can offer them.

Social media, such as Twitter, is useful for developing a professional network and for seeing what others in the market are up to. You might even discover a valuable online community who can provide you with hints, tips and tricks specific to your trade.

Keep your ear to the ground, research your field, and be brave in reaching out via phone or email to those who you see as potential clients.

Another good place to start is The Society of Virtual Assistants . As a strong and well established network, they provide good advice, support and information on finding VA work via their website.

Sharing is caring

And finally, don’t see other virtual assistants as the competition; instead, see them as people with whom you can have a healthy professional exchange. This will help to both grow your knowledge base and avoid feelings of isolation when working independently.

In this article, you have learned:

• What a virtual assistant does
• The services a virtual assistant can offer
• How to establish yourself as a virtual assistant
• The key equipment to invest in
• What to charge and how to ensure your costings are competitive
• Networking tips

As a VA, you will have both the freedom and responsibilities of self-employment. Arm yourself with supportive loved ones, a financial back-up plan, and a huge dose of self-motivation.Also, keep on top of emails, maintain your social media, and consider investing in equipment that’ll keep your communication professional, so working for yourself really works for you.

Written by:

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Online Startups

How to Write a Virtual Assistant Business Plan [Sample Template]

Are you about starting a virtual assistance business? If YES, here is a complete sample virtual assistant business plan template & feasibility study you can use for FREE . If you are a content creator, a computer cum web utility person or a graphic designer, amongst others, there is no limit to the amount you can make as a professional especially if you know how to generate doable business ideas.

The truth is that many content creator, computer cum web utility person and talented graphic designers (graphic artist) et al gets stranded because they lack innovative ideas to transform their talents (skills) into a money making venture.

The bottom line is that if you want to make more money as a graphic designer, content creator, editor, computer cum web utility person, then you should be ready to go out of your way to develop innovative business ideas that is in sync with your skills; ideas that won’t take you too far from your core area of business. Ideas like starting a virtual assistant business is perhaps one of the ideas you should embrace.

A Sample Virtual Assistant Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Virtual assistant services falls under The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry and virtual assistant line of business comprises of individuals as well as enterprises who work remotely as an independent professional, providing a wide range of products and services both to businesses as well as consumers.

Basically a virtual assistant is self-employed and provides professional administrative, technical, or creative (social) assistance to clients remotely from a home office. Since virtual assistants are independent contractors rather than employees, clients are not responsible for any employee – related benefits such as medical, taxes, insurance and other benefits. Although, some clients factor such benefits into the total contract package.

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry performed pretty well in the last decade. This is due to the improving US economy, coupled with rising revenue in the finance and accounting sectors, credit card services and the insurance and human resource industries et al.

In addition, employers have experienced ever-increasing expenses, due to wage increases and rising health insurance costs, which is why it is economical to contracted BPO service providers as a means of controlling all these expenditures.

Going forward, The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry will continue to flourish, as revenue generated by organizations will be pressured by increasing wage and burgeoning employer healthcare costs and other expenses.

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry is indeed a growing industry and pretty much active in all the parts of the world. Statistics has it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 162,002 registered companies in this industry, employing about 905,485 and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $136bn annually.

The industry is projected to continue to grow at a 4.0 percent rate. It is important to state that there is no company with a dominant market share in the industry. There are loads of players in this industry simply because the entry barriers for the Business Process Outsourcing Services industry are low.

As a matter of fact, the required startup costs for new organization can be as low as the cost of acquiring a computer / laptop and internet device and the can successfully swing into full – time operations without the need of employees, significant capital expenses or even an office.

Over and above, The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry is very open to any aspiring entrepreneur who has the required skills to start his or her own virtual assistant business and of course make good money from the industry.

As a matter of fact, it was projected that over the next five years, new technology will continue to emerge that will make it easier for more players to come into the industry hence increasing the competition in the industry.

2. Executive Summary

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is a registered and standard virtual assistant services company that will be based in the United States of America, but operate all over the globe. We have been able to secure a standard and well – positioned office facility in a busy business district in Baltimore, the largest city in Maryland where we intend coordinating all our freelancers from all over the world.

We are a virtual assistant service company that is set to compete in the highly competitive Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry not only in the United States market, but also in the global market. Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC will be involved in virtual support services such as providing outsourcing services for work related to finance and accounting functions, providing outsourcing services for work related to:

• Human resource functions
• Providing outsourcing services for customer relations management
• Providing outsourcing services for sales fulfillment and order management
• Providing outsourcing services for document management
• Providing outsourcing services for supply chain management and engineering functions
• Freelance writing
• Copywriting
• Translation
• Freelance web design
• Graphic services
• Video editing and photo editing et al

Our business goal is to become one of the leading virtual assistant services company in the United States and we will make sure that every outsource jobs that we handle for our clients favorable compete with the best in the industry.

Our freelance team will be selected from a pool of talented and highly creative professionals with various skills as it relates to the services we offer in and around Baltimore and also from any part of the world. We will make sure that we take all our freelance workers through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company and to compete with leading virtual assistant services companies in the United States and throughout the globe.

At Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC, our client’s best interest come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, freelance workers and for our clients.

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is founded by Larry Clinton and his friend and business partner for many years Ken Bradford. They have a combine experience in freelance writing, editing, accounting and bookkeeping support services, consulting, corporate branding and advertising, cartoon and animations, graphic and commercial art services and print media design.

3. Our Products and Services

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profit in The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry. We want to compete favorably with the leading virtual assistant services companies in the United States which is why we have but in place a competent quality assurance team that will ensure that all our services meet and even surpass our customers’ expectations.

We will work hard to ensure that Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is not just accepted nationally in the United States of America, but also in other parts of the world. Our products and services are listed below;

• Providing outsourcing services for work related to finance and accounting functions
• Providing outsourcing services for work related to human resource functions
• Freelance writing, editing, copywriting, researching, data entry and translation et al
• Freelance web design, graphic design services, video editing and photo editing et al

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to establish a standard virtual assistant services company whose services and brand will not only be accepted in the United States of America, but also in other parts of the world.
• Our mission is to provide professional and highly creative freelance services that will assist businesses, individuals and non-profit organizations in achieving their business goals.
• We want to build a virtual assistant services company that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the industry.

Our Business Structure

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC, is a virtual assistant services company will be launched in Baltimore, but hope to grow big and secure outsourced jobs from big corporations from all over the world. We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own.

This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands (freelancers and back office staff) within our area of operations. At Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce (freelancers), and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer
• Creative Director

Human Resources and Admin Manager

• Sales and Marketing Executive
• Graphic Artist
• Freelancers

Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Creative Director:

• Serves as project manager of the organization; works directly with freelancers
• Responsible for designing concepts for advertisements and other promotional needs for client (s)
• In charge of copy writing and laying out chronological advertisement plans
• Develops strategic plan by studying technological and financial opportunities; presenting assumptions; recommending objectives.
• Accomplishes subsidiary objectives by establishing plans, budgets, and results measurements; allocating resources; reviewing progress; making mid-course corrections.
• Coordinates efforts by establishing procurement, production, marketing, field, and technical services policies and practices; coordinating actions with corporate staff.
• Builds company image by collaborating with customers, government, community organizations, and employees; enforcing ethical business practices.
• Maintains quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; benchmarking state-of-the-art practices; participating in professional societies.
• Makes certain that production and development department perform efficiently, coordinate employee efforts, and facilitate communications between management and graphic designer
• Ensures that the organization work in line with international best practices.
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office and factory activities.

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Creates new markets cum businesses for the organization
• Empowers and motivates the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets

Accountant / Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC
• Serves as internal auditor for Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC.

Freelance Graphic Designers

• Liaises with clients to determine their requirement and budget
• Responsible for developing concepts, graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and websites
• Responsible for managing client proposals from typesetting through to design, print and production
• Responsible for reviewing final layout and suggesting improvement if necessary
• Responsible for working with clients, briefing and advising them with regards to design style, format, print production and timescales et al
• Determines size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and font style and size
• Responsible for liaising with external printers on a regular basis to ensure deadlines are met and material is printed to the highest quality
• Responsible for preparing drafts or material based on an agreement brief.
• Researches and advices the organization on style, genre and other trendy info as it relates to graphic design.
• Responsible for designing models, background, sets, characters, objects and the animation environment
• Works creatively to produce original and aesthetically pleasing designs and solutions
• Using specialist computer software applications such as Maya, Lightwave, Softimage, Cinema 4D, Flash and After Effects
• Presents designs to customers for evaluation

Freelance Workers (Work from any part of the world)

• Provider outsourcing services for work related to finance and accounting functions
• Provides outsourcing services for work related to human resource functions
• Provides outsourcing services for customer relations management
• Provides outsourcing services for sales fulfillment and order management
• Provides outsourcing services for document management
• Provides outsourcing services for supply chain management and engineering functions
• Welcomes clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the chief executive office in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC engaged the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured virtual assistant services business that can favorably compete in the highly competitive Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry in the United States and the world at large.

Part of what the team of business consultants did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a SWOT analysis for Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team; our back office workforce. We have a team of creative and highly proficient team with excellent qualifications and experience in various niche areas in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry. Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected back office staff, our services will be guided by best practices in the industry.

As a new virtual assistant services company, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from top profile clients in the already saturated and highly competitive Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to promote our business the way we would want to.

• Opportunities:

No doubt, the opportunities in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry is massive considering the number of individuals and corporate organizations whose businesses depends on the services of freelancers and those who would want to cut cost. As a virtual assistant services company, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that is available in the industry.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The internet has truly opened up loads of business opportunities and virtual assistant services industry is one of them. It is a fact that the common means of communication and data delivery in the virtual assistant industry include the Internet, e-mail and phone-call conferences, online work spaces, and fax machine et al.

More and more Virtual Assistants are leveraging on technology platforms such as Skype as well as Google Voice to carry out their services. Professionals in this line of business work on a contractual basis or a retainer – ship basis.

The trend is that, in recent years Virtual Assistants Service Providers have also worked their ways  into many mainstream businesses and with the advent of VOIP services such as Skype it has been possible to have a Virtual Assistant who can answer your phone remotely without the end user’s knowledge. As a result if this, it is now easier for organizations to add a personal touch in the form of a receptionist without the additional cost of hiring someone.

Another common trend in the virtual line of business is that, most virtual assistant services companies no longer settle for clients within the location where there physical office is located but also from any part of the world. The truth is that with the advent of the internet, it is now easier for virtual assistant service providers to work for clients in any part of the world.

A virtual assistant services company can be located in the United States of America and have their biggest client in United Arab Emirates or Australia; many thanks to the power of the internet. Lastly, the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry will continue to evolve due to the advancement of computer technology and software applications et al.

Before starting our virtual assistant services company, we were certain that there was a wide range of both corporate and individual clients who cannot successfully run their businesses without outsourcing some of their operations to a third party service provider.

As a matter of fact, without virtual assistants like content writers cum freelance journalists, online publications and web industry would be a  struggle. In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individual who we know can’t afford to do without our services.

We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that the services we offer well accepted in the market place. Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically market our products and services to;

• Bloggers and website owners
• Banks, Insurance Companies and other related Financial Institutions
• Blue Chips Companies
• Corporate Organizations
• Manufacturers and Distributors
• Real Estate Owners, Developers, and Contractors
• Research and Development Companies
• The Government (Public Sector)
• Religious Organizations
• Political Parties
• Television Stations
• Printing Press (Publishing Houses) and Authors
• Branding and Advertising agencies
• Entrepreneurs and Start – Ups

8. Our Target Market

Our Competitive Advantage

No doubt the competition in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry is getting stiffer by the day, you have to be highly creative and come up with detailed services, graphic designs and concepts in order to survive in the industry.

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry is indeed a very prolific and at the same time, a highly competitive industry. Clients will only hire your services if they know that they can get nothing but the best from you.

We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry means that you are not only expected to be able to deliver consistent and highly creative jobs, but you must be able to meet set targets. No one would want to continue to hire your services if don’t always meet up with the target date of completion of projects.

Our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team and management; our workforce (Freelancers all over the world). We have a team of creative and highly proficient freelancers in various niche areas in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry, a team with excellent qualifications and experience. Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected freelancers, our fees and services will be guided by best practices in the industry.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups virtual assistants businesses in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to meet and surpass the expectations of all our clients.

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC will generate income by offering the following graphic design related services;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain; there would always be corporate organization and individual who would need the services of virtual assistant companies.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow our virtual assistant company to enviable heights.

We have been able to critically examine the virtual assistant market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups.

Below is the sales projection for Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC, it is based on the location of our business and of course the wide range of our services and target market;

• First Year-: $10 0,000
• Second Year-: $200,000
• Third Year-: $ 450,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are mindful of the fact that there is stiffer competition in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry; hence we have been able to hire some of the best marketing experts to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Services industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall business goal of Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC.

Our goal is to grow Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC to become one of the top 10 virtual assistant service provider in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategy that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in the United States of America but also in other parts of the world.

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our virtual assistant company by sending introductory letters / emails alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, religious organizations and key stake holders.
• Promptness in bidding for graphic design contracts from the government and other cooperate organizations
• Advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver excellent design and services
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our in house brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate clients and individual clients in the whole of the United States and beyond which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our virtual assistant company.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events / programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around Baltimore – Maryland and other key cities in the United States of America.
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Contact corporate organizations by calling them up (emailing them as well) and informing them of Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC and the services we offer
• List our virtual assistant company in local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our virtual assistant company in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our official vehicles are well branded with our company logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC we will keep the prices of our services below the average market rate for all of our customers by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance from corporate organizations who would hire our services. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our customers at regular intervals.

We are aware that there are some one-off jobs or government contracts which are always lucrative; we will ensure that we abide by the pricing model that is expected from contractors or organizations that bid for such contracts.

• Payment Options

At Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment via mobile money

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake and the nature if the business. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. The materials and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a virtual assistant company; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. However, this is what it would cost us to setup Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC in the United of America;

• Business incorporating fees in the United States of America will cost – $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license will cost – $3,500
• Renting / leasing a small office space that will accommodate the number of employees for at least 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive) will cost – $150,000.
• Equipping the office (computers, printers, projectors, markers, servers / internet facility, furniture, telephones, filing cabinets, and electronics) will cost – $10,000
• Amount required to purchase the needed software applications – $ 3,500
• Launching an official Website will cost – $500
• Amount need to pay bills and staff members for at least 2 to 3 months – $70,000
• Additional Expenditure such as Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions will cost – $5,000

Going by the report from the market research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need about two hundred and fifty thousand (250,000) U.S. dollars to successfully set – up a medium scale but standard virtual assistant company firm in the United States of America.

Please note that you can successfully launch this type of business from any part of the world in your bedroom with just a functional laptop, internet facility and the required software applications. But if you choose to build a business with structure, a business that does not revolve around one man or woman, then you should follow the above structure.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is a business that will be owned by Larry Clinton and his friend and business partner for many years Ken Bradford. They are the sole financial of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital for the business to just three major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $85,000 and soft loan from family members $15,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running. We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to consistently offer excellent services at a very competitive price than what is obtainable in the industry.

Do It All® Virtual Support Services, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce (freelance workers inclusive) is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Securing a small but standard office facility : Completed
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the start – up capital from the founders: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the business: Completed
• Secure trademark for our products: In Progress
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in various industries: In Progress

More on Online Startups

• How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business

As a virtual assistant contractor, your job will be to handle administration for your clients. The range of services you provide may vary, and you’ll have to be a well-organized, capable problem-solver and quick thinker to handle every possible situation in the office environment. 

A virtual assistant (VA) is an occupation that’s in high demand these days. It’s mostly a remote position, making it easy to start for people new to the concept. You can work from anywhere and choose your clientele however you see fit. 

Whether you’re interested in learning more about this flexible career path or thinking about starting a virtual assisatnt business , this guide will show you the way by breaking down the essential elements to consider.

What is a virtual assistant business? 

A virtual assistant or administrative freelancing business refers to a contractor who provides administrative services for corporate clients, usually small to midsize companies. This profession is called a virtual assistant because these professionals are typically remote employees operating via an internet connection. 

This operating flexibility allows virtual assistants to work from anywhere and choose as many clients as they can manage. A virtual assistant business is a flexible and customizable concept. However, your VA business management depends on your location, operating hours, the services you provide, and your skills.

This level of customizability and flexibility exposes virtual assistant businesses to fierce competition. You don’t need much to start, making it even more competitive. In truth, all you need to become a VA is basic administration knowledge, good communication skills, decent tech abilities, and a reliable internet connection. 

Even though you don’t need any prior experience to get started, you will need some tangible proof of your communication, project management, and organization skills to attract clients by providing a proven track of your achievements. 

Now, let’s discuss what it takes to start a virtual assistant business.

Determine which services you will be offering 

The best thing about running a VA business is the variety of services that you can provide. However, that’s also a problem, as starting your business offering too many services could become overwhelming. The best course of action is to begin by specializing in a few carefully selected business niches . 

Modern-day virtual assistants typically provide general administration services, such as:

• Office paperwork and correspondence management;
• Customer service over the phone or email;
• Email management;
• Bookkeeping and accounting;
• Invoicing and billing;
• Appointment scheduling; and
• Calendar management.

Providing additional services increases your chances of beating your competitors. Consider business marketing as an addition to your offering. VA business marketing services include:

• Social media management;
• Community management;
• Video editing;
• Tracking sales;
• Facebook ads;
• Content creation and blog writing;
• Creating and sending email newsletters;
• SEO services;
• Editorial calendar management;
• Ghostwriting;
• Affiliate management;
• Branding; and
• PR distribution.

In addition, you should also consider specialized services based on your existing skills, knowledge, and experience. Here are some considerations:

• Market research;
• Data entry;
• Transcription;
• Proofreading;
• Webinar setup;
• Website maintenance and design; and
• Graphic design.

Start by determining the services that you will be offering. Be thoughtful of your circumstances and choose a niche based on your previous experiences to lay a strong foundation for your VA business. 

Creating a basic package of services is a good starting point. Your services should include mixed business and office management skills, such as website maintenance, customer support, scheduling, and emailing.

Figure out your target market 

Picking your target market is the next step in building your VA operation. Many experienced VA professionals say it’s best to market your VA expertise to an industry in which you have prior experience. 

Since you’re already familiar with that market, you could target business organizations and their specific needs to outpace your competitors by creating a unique value proposition. Consider attracting clients from your previous jobs to build your business network. 

Make sure that you ask for feedback and include positive customer reviews and testimonials on your website and social media. Reaching out to potential clients is an excellent way to focus on a specific industry or niche, as it allows you to build a unique client base and establish your brand. 

Whether you’re an accountant, bookkeeper, healthcare professional, or realtor , almost every industry provides lucrative business opportunities for virtual assistant professionals.

Create a business plan 

You’ve determined services to offer and the target market for your VA business. Now, it’s time to move on to the next critical step of your operation – creating a business plan. 

A business plan is a crucial document that helps you determine the fundamental aspects of managing your VA business:

• The scope of professional services you will provide;
• Your market;
• Target audience;
• Your main competitors;
• The demand for your business type;
• Your pricing;
• The necessary funding to get started; and
• Expected ROI.

A business plan is also an official document that helps you to define your business goals, objectives, and mission. It can also help you outline the best business structure for your operation. 

You should also include your pricing rates in your business plan, such as:

• Personal living costs;
• Business overheads.

Your rates should be competitive enough to cover your business expenses and attract new clients.

Select your business name and register your company 

Naming your virtual assistant business is one of the most effective ways to stand out from the crowd and attract high-paying clients. However, determining a catchy and memorable business name can be more challenging than you think. 

It should be something that describes your business but is also easy to pronounce. The name you choose must also be available to use.

You have two ways to find an appropriate name for your business:

• Use a business name generator – browse the web to identify the most suitable business name ideas by entering keywords and checking for available domains; or
• Visit your secretary of state’s official portal – check your business name to see if it is available for use.

In addition to choosing a catchy business name, the next step is to pick the business entity and register your company. 

You have three options at your disposal:

• A limited liability company (LLC);
• A partnership; or
• A sole proprietor.

Each of these options have their own advantages and disadvantages that you should consider. More importantly, the business structure that you select determines how you’ll pay your taxes, the level of your personal liability, and more. 

Our recommendation is to hire professional LLC services to handle your business formation and successfully register your company to avoid legal issues, compliance violations, and paying hefty fines.

Invest in equipment 

Once you have named and registered your company and assembled a comprehensive, all-encompassing business plan, you should consider investing in the best tools of the trade to get your business going. 

Essentially, a VA business requires only a reliable and fast Wi-Fi connection and an internet-enabled device with a camera. While you can’t do without these essentials, you should also invest in additional business management tools. Let’s delve deeper into the necessities. 

Computers 

Aside from a powerful computing device, consider investing in additional equipment, including:

• A second monitor;
• An ergonomic office chair;
• A top-quality desk with a monitor stand; and
• High-end headphones.

Tools and software 

Invest in software tools such as:

• Project management – project management software tools like Evernote, Basecamp, Asana, and Trello help business professionals keep track of past, current, and future projects and clients to stay on top of deadlines, schedules, and more.
• Accounting and invoicing – accounting and invoicing software tools are essential to your virtual assistant business efforts as they ensure that your clients pay on time, and help you track your expenses and income. There are also resources like Excel accounting templates that can help you manage your financial data.
• Time tracking – a standard rule of thumb for virtual assistants is to charge by the hour. However, that can be pretty challenging when managing multiple clients. Time tracking tools can help you to track your ongoing projects and determine your prices accordingly. 

Investing in social media advertising, SEO, driving organic traffic to your website, and listing your business on Google are all excellent business strategies for getting ahead of your competitors.

Create a business site 

Now that your business is almost ready, the next step is to build a website for your company. While you may not have the necessary expertise to create a website, you should know that modern-day web technology makes the web design process very simple. 

Establishing a business website isn’t something that you should delay. You need an attractive, easy-to-use, responsive website with seamless navigation to attract regular customers to your VA services. 

It can help you promote your business in two ways:

• It gives your business legitimacy – a fully optimized website makes your business appear legitimate and trustworthy. 
• It helps you to build brand awareness – including backlinks to your website in your social media posts and blogs is an excellent way to broaden your target audience and drive more traffic to your site.

Here’s a professional tip: Save money on hiring a web developer by tapping into website builder tools such as WordPress , Shopify , and GoDaddy Website Builder.

Create social media profiles 

Social media profiles help you to establish a brand presence online and work on brand recognition. Internet users spend a lot of time on social media networks like LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. 

You can tap into all of these platforms and start sharing your business-related content and industry news to create an authoritative brand image and gather social proof of your services. 

Social media is also the most effective way to engage with your clients, start discussions, collect user reviews, and build a community of loyal customers.

Since the pandemic, the VA industry has gone through a period of rebirth. Compared to previous years, the VA hiring rates have never been higher . 

Demand for remote VA professionals continues to rise, and there has never been a better time to choose this career than today. 

Use these guidelines to start your VA business, and explore other steps that you can take to ensure that you start off on the right foot.

2 comments on “How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business”

The detailed steps and insights shared here provide a clear roadmap for getting started on this exciting entrepreneurial journey. The practical tips and advice are truly invaluable, offering a roadmap to build a thriving virtual assistant business. From identifying your niche to marketing strategies, it covers everything. As someone contemplating this path, I’m grateful for such a comprehensive guide that simplifies the complex process of starting a VA business.

Starting a virtual assistant (VA) business involves offering remote administrative services. Basic requirements include admin knowledge, tech skills, and good communication. Focus on specialized services, target a market, and create a business plan with pricing. Leverage your expertise, build a network, and ensure competitive rates for success in this flexible field.

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We’ve put together 10 helpful tips to help you on your way to becoming a Virtual Assistant – a must-read for any aspiring assistant!

• Your first 5 clients are the hardest to get when you are becoming a virtual assistant.  Make it easy and start by telling everyone who knows you and your work about what you are planning on doing.  Many VAs found their first client in their former employers!
• Advertising doesn’t usually work for virtual assistants, instead try to focus on networking and word-of-mouth referrals instead.  You telling people that you’re great is taken with a large pinch of salt, but someone who your new client really respects and trusts recommending you is worth its weight in gold.  Think about how you got your hairdresser – you asked your friends, didn’t you? Brush up on your digital marketing skills with Google Digital Garage .
• If you can, try to save at least six months living costs in the bank and pay off all your credit cards before starting up.  It takes time to build a business, and you don’t want to get trapped into working lots of hours at a low rate because you need to make the mortgage payment.
• Marketing is now governed by GDPR and PECR – learn what you are and aren’t allowed to do.
• Time is money to virtual assistants – do not steal time from your fellow VAs by pretending to be a client.  Most VAs are very open to helping newbies as long as you are honest with them. Ask for help via our private Facebook group. (You must be a member to participate – join here on our “Become a member” page).
• Do what you say you will, when you said you’d do it.  In other words, make sure you hit that deadline with time to spare.  It doesn’t look good if you don’t deliver the goods.  Or if you think you are going to be late in delivering, keep the avenues of communication open so there are no misunderstandings – people are usually far more understanding than you expect.
• Make sure you understand the legalities of what services you offer… IR35 , GDPR and MLR regulations are just three pieces of legislation which may affect what you can offer as a VA.
• Get used to motivating yourself.  Look for tasks you can take on without being prompted as practice.  Most VAs work alone, and this can be difficult for someone who is used to an office environment.
• Get a proper business set-up sorted: Our Virtual Assistant Best Practice Guidelines are a good place to start. You might also find Essential Office Equipment and Essential Virtual Assistant Software useful.  And yes – you do need to have a physical office address on your website.

Research carefully – there is a wealth of information out there, but some of it is incorrect or misleading.  The information from the SVA is free.  However, we can recommend any of the trainers on our Approved Trainers page as we know they meet the best practice criteria and are great at what they do.   Courses and books are becoming more and more commonplace for UK VAs – but ask yourself what qualifies the person to be an expert .  How long have they been a VA?  Are they trained properly themselves?  Further reading: The Best Virtual Assistant Course

There is market research out there for your business plan.  The annual UK VA Survey is a great place to start. Remember that you will not only be competing with other VAs for your clients’ admin work, but call centres, clients’ families, offshore assistants and part-time employees and temps. It also gives you details on how much you can expect to earn, and what is “normal” to charge.

38 Comments

very nice tips for a newbie like me! kudos! thank you for writing this one! 🙂

Brilliant post, I wish I had read this in the first year of setting up it would have saved me a lot of time and money. Thanks

Hello Caroline and Karen Rayner, Thank you very much for Tips. I am working as virtual assistant in Nepal. As I am virtual assistant, I memorize your tips every moment. I have printed and kept on the wall at my work desk so that I can read and try to improve my working habit.

Hello, Caroline! How’re you doing? Was just going about a host of blogs and websites on VA and came across this. I just want to share my thoughts on #4.

Yes, we do need to be realistic about our skills and NOT claim to know it all. I’ve come across VAs who bite in jobs without thoroughly understanding what they’re in for. Most people who need VAs nowadays don’t just want back-office administration tasks done; they want VAs who have great communication skills, particularly for writing purposes and then social media. So it’s best that would-be VAs who lack experience or knowledge on certain areas be honest about their limitations. As for me, I’d be asking a potential client if I’d be given time to learn a particular task first, sort of a trial period.

Thanks for this space, Caro… and do KEEP POSTING helpful information for VAs. I’m sure you’ve got plenty motivated to learn how to fare in this industry! More power!

Great post. I think there is a new market coming regarding personal data security

Well as far as i know this is really great work done by all of you and if anyone follow these tips he or she definitely become good virtual assistant.

Hello there! Do you know if they make any plugins to help with Search Engine Optimization? I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing very good success. If you know of any please share. Appreciate it!

Yes, WordPress has an SEO plug in called Yoast.

I would like to work from home. I am a retired Medical Secretary and have done dict8.com. I would also like to do proof reading or general typing. Many thanks, Glyn Ellens

Good luck with setting up – SVA doesn’t employ VAs itself, but we do help them get set up and stay in business. Check out the START UP VA section on the main site.

Thanks for the tips to become a virtual assistant. I wanted to become a virtual assistant someday. Thanks for that. Your blog really a big help for me.

Hi Caroline

I like the idea of becoming a virtual pa but I am not sure about the setting up my own business bit. Could you advise on if there is businesses out there looking for Virtual PAs please.

Many thanks.

Mostly, even if you wanted to be a subcontract VA and work for other virtual assistants, you would still need to set up your own business. I don’t know of any VAs who employ people on an employee basis, simply because our workloads vary so much due to the nature of the business.

Don’t be scared of the business bit – HMRC run regular workshops to keep you right with the record keeping, and it’s really not as complicated as it may first seem… If I can do it, believe me, anyone can!

Good Work!, This is a nice article you have here for a Virtual Assistant. I think, also they’re are Virtual Assistant Companies which are office based who give a short training’s for a VA. Actually yes, the company where i’m working. hehe. At the first month of the business we trained a few VA and our focus on the real estate industry. But, even though i’m already almost 6 months with my job, i still need to learn more stuff about how VA really works. So this article i think gonna lead me to a bunch of VA Tips. 🙂

Being a new start up and a struggling VA the above top 10 tips were useful reading, I am coming to my own conclusion that advertising may not be best way to solely rely on but its knowing how to network too. I am a member of my local chamber and have been to a few networking events but find it quite difficult talking amongst members who clearly have been together for a while. Any networking tips/advise available? I am very eager to actually say i have some clients and prove that my idea is a good business concept, but after nearly 6 months of trying beginning to give up

Hey Caroline,

I must say these are great tips. I am going to explain this blog post to my work force at office.

Cheers! Daven L

I’ve literally just decided to become a virtual assistant (upon hearing about it by accident) and your advice has been very very very helpful. I’ve gone through my check list of things I need to do and have but still a little unsure of where to start.

It would also be advantageous if an aspiring VA would be adventurous in acquiring new skills like enhancing visual content such as images and creating simple but presentable videos. Recently, employers would almost always require for you to maintain their websites or social media accounts for them. So, it would be ideal if the aspiring VA would have sufficient knowledge in social media management and site management as well on top of the more generic skills that fall under administrative tasks. Hope this helps those aspiring VAs out there. If you have questions, I will be glad to answer.

Well my brother is working on this Virtual Assistant field he really needed some information regarding this matter this is the best found I have for him will suggest him to go through this

I am interested in becoming a VA. I have lots of experience but need help on how to start, ie what you need to start, how to set rates, get clients etc. Any ideas please?

Have a look at some of our recommended reading on right hand sidebar, and it’s worth taking a peak at the UK VA Industry survey as this sets out loads of useful facts and figures that you can use to write a business plan. Hope that helps! Caroline

I am also interested in becoming a VA. But how to start business? Thanks

“Yes I totally agree with your tips, Caroline. Especially on number 4, we need to be realistic about our skills and we don’t to mess up by taking jobs that aren’t suitable to our skill set. For virtual assistant we must maintain or earn the basic skills that are commonly used in this work.

1.communication skills 2.writing 3.typing 4.computer knowledge (word doc, excel spreadsheet, powerpoint presentation)

Should you want to earn a higher daily or monthly wage, you can always equip your skills with more technical ones by taking crash course, watching Youtube videos or searching the web for tutorials.”

Hi Caroline I am very thankful for your wonderful advice. I didn’t know a society of VAs existed and I think that will be a source of valuable knowledge. Keep creating great posts.

This is a job I am very interested in pursuing as a side job rather than a full time self employment opportunity. Am I wasting my time or could I be successful with 1 or 2 clients, only needing basic support? I currently work part time with the nhs as an administrative assistant, and aim to increase my skills and work my way up in time, but with a young family at home the need for extra cash and no extra childcare costs is my best option. Any advise would be appreciated, thanks.

Being totally honest, whilst it’s totally possible to pick up odd jobs as a VA, it’s quite hard to deal direct with clients because the chances of you being available when they need the work done are low if you only have a couple of evenings a week to work… I’d always say you need at least 20 hours a week to work, and some of those need to be within 9-5 Mon-Fri. Some services lend themselves better to this than others: So if the job is producing artwork which you can schedule in advance or doing month end paperwork, it’s easy to schedule that so it hits deadline. It’s trickier when it’s ad-hoc work which needs done ASAP.

You may be better working as a subcontractor and being able to say Yes/No to each job as it comes in with the back up of the Lead VA if you aren’t able to hit deadline.

I would suggest your niche down your service offerings beyond “basic support”. Determine the skills you are amazing at AND are interested in doing. Stick to those. It’s less overwhelming for the potential client if you can provide specific specialities that are in your wheelhouse.

One of my best tips for aspiring VAs in getting clients is to niche down WHO you want as your clients. Examples could be: health coaches, authors, speakers, small online business entrepreneurs, real estate brokers, etc. Try to speak to everyone and you end up speaking to no one.

When you drill down your target market and your offerings, it will be so much easier to get clients.

Great post! I can’t agree more about motivating yourself. I recently took an admin training course but couldn’t secure a job in a company. So, now I am looking for VA jobs. Even though it’s a constant struggle to get up daily and apply to multiple jobs, I always try to keep myself motivated so that I may never give up.

Firstly i would like to thanks for your Brilliant 10 Tips for Becoming a Virtual Assistant. you were write some helpful step by your experience. your advice would be appreciated.

WoW! Thank you so much for this very helpful tips. I am new on this freelancing industry and currently looking for an opportunity to work. This is such a great advice.

Nice Article. This tips are really helpful for me, mostly the second tip.

Caroline, this is absolutely spot on, and I think every VA should take the time to read this! I found point number three on “time is money” very interesting. The way I see it, the time that we give to others (whether it be free advice/insight/an introduction call) will always come with a shared benefit, even if the benefit is not immediate. So although we would want to prioritise with the urgent/important tasks first, we need to keep the bigger picture in mind – which is to network and spread the word through mouth.

I work for a London-based VA company that started only in 2019. We’ve managed to find great success and traction through connecting with like-minded individuals and offering our competitive advantages – one of them including detailed time-tracking.

I would love for you to check out our website here: http://www.remotebob.co.uk

Really helpful. I always believe that when you put your heart and mind on the task it will be easier and will take shorter time on finishing. For me, an honest relationship between a client and a VA is the most important. Know what they need. Tell them what you can offer. Be sincere. Be genuine on how you want to be part of their success. It is after all your success too.

Wow, Thanks for these amazing tips. I’m gonna use them all in my career path for sure.

Useful article. Thanks for the tips provided.

Really useful article. Thanks for the tips!

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How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business

Starting a virtual assistant business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful virtual assistant business.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a virtual assistant business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Virtual Assistant Business :

• Choose the Name for Your Virtual Assistant Business
• Develop Your Virtual Assistant Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Virtual Assistant Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Virtual Assistant Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Virtual Assistant Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Virtual Assistant Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Virtual Assistant Business Equipment
• Develop Your Virtual Assistant Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Virtual Assistant Business
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Virtual Assistant Business

The first step to starting a virtual assistant business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your own virtual assistant business:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your virtual assistant business.

2. Develop Your Virtual Assistant Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a virtual assistant business is to develop your virtual assistant business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your virtual assistant business.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your VA business and what type of virtual assistant business you operate. For example, are you a business support, personal support, virtual administration (VA) service, social media management service, website design and development service, or an ecommerce service?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the virtual assistant industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your virtual own business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your virtual assistant business make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

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3. choose the legal structure for your virtual assistant business.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your new virtual assistant business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the virtual assistant business and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small business owners. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a virtual assistant business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a virtual assistant business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a virtual assistant business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your virtual assistant business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

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4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Virtual Assistant Business (If Needed)

In developing your own VA business plan , you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a virtual assistant business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a virtual assistant business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

When looking for a location for your virtual assistant business, it’s important to find a place that’s conducive to productivity and creativity. You’ll want to choose a place that has minimal distractions and is quiet so you can focus on your work.

6. Register Your Virtual Assistant Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your virtual assistant business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your virtual assistant business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

To start a virtual assistant business, you will likely need a business license and a permit to operate as a business. You may also need to register with the state or local government. You should consult with your local government office to find out what licenses and permits you need.  

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Virtual Assistant Business

The type of insurance that you need to operate a virtual assistant business will depend on the services that you offer.

Some business insurance policies you should consider for your virtual assistant business include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
• Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right Virtual Assistant Business Equipment

To run a virtual assistant business, you will need a computer, reliable internet access, and a phone. You may also want to invest in some software to help you manage your virtual assistant business.

12. Develop Your Virtual Assistant Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your virtual assistant business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your virtual assistant business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional virtual assistant business website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your virtual assistant business.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Virtual Assistant Business

In starting a virtual assistant business, you need some basic software. This includes a word processing program, a spreadsheet program, and a communication program. You may also want to consider investing in some task management software to help you keep track of your clients’ requests and deadlines.

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your virtual assistant business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

Additional Resources

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How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business FAQs

Is it hard to start a virtual assistant business.

No, it is not difficult to start a virtual assistant business because you don’t need a lot of money to get started. You can start your business with a computer and an internet connection. You also don’t need to have a lot of experience or training. There are many online courses and resources that can help you get started.

How can I start a virtual assistant business with no experience?

You can do a few things to get started in a virtual assistant business with no experience. You can start by researching the industry and learning about the different services that virtual assistants offer. You can also join online communities and forums where virtual assistants discuss best practices and offer advice to newbies.

What type of virtual assistant business is most profitable?

The most profitable virtual assistant business provides administrative and marketing support to other companies. This type of business can offer a high level of service and support, making it valuable as it can be critical to the success of these other companies. As a result, this type of virtual assistant business can charge a higher price for its services, which makes it more profitable.

How much does it cost to start a virtual assistant business?

It can cost anywhere from $100 to $2,000 to start a virtual assistant business. The most important expense is usually your computer and internet connection. You may also need some office supplies, such as a printer and paper.

What are the ongoing expenses for a virtual assistant business?

The ongoing expenses for a virtual assistant business can include items such as computer software, internet service, and training courses. In addition, virtual assistants may need to invest in marketing and advertising to build the business.

How does a virtual assistant business make money?

A virtual assistant business makes money by providing administrative, creative, technical, or project management services to multiple clients remotely. The most common ways to charge for these virtual assistant services are by the hour, by project, or through a monthly retainer. Some virtual assistants also offer one-time jobs, such as data entry or creating a social media strategy.

Is owning a virtual assistant business profitable?

Yes, virtual assistant businesses can be profitable because they offer a unique service that is in high demand. Virtual assistants can provide a wide range of VA services, such as administrative support, social media management, and marketing assistance. This allows the owners to focus on their core business functions and grow their business without having to worry about administrative tasks.

Why do virtual assistant businesses fail?

Most virtual assistants fail because the owner does not set up their business correctly. They do not create a system, do not have a process, or do not have a solid plan. Furthermore, many virtual assistant businesses fail because the owner tries to do too many things themselves instead of outsourcing or automating some of the processes. Lastly, virtual assistant businesses may fail because the business owner has not created a brand or marketing strategy.

If you are starting a virtual assistant business, make sure to set it up correctly from the beginning. Outsource or automate some of your processes, create a system and a marketing strategy. By doing these things, you will increase your chances of success.

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How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business

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If you’re highly organized, love to support others and want to work remotely, you may consider starting a business as a virtual assistant. It can be a perfect solution for many entrepreneurs and small businesses: You have the freedom to work from wherever you like and the businesses you work with get the help they need, when they need it.

Whether you’re considering how to start a virtual assistant business or are looking to learn more about this flexible career path, this guide will break down everything you need to know.

What is a virtual assistant?

A virtual assistant, sometimes referred to as a VA or administrative freelancer, is generally a contractor who is hired to complete administrative tasks for a small business. The “virtual” in virtual assistant comes from the fact that virtual assistants work remotely, rather than in an office. This allows them to work from anywhere — whether a different state or even country — and have as many clients as they can effectively manage.

A virtual assistant role is highly customizable, depending on your skills, what services you want to provide, when you want to work and from where you want to work. This customizability is one of the many reasons that being a virtual assistant is a competitive field.

The best part about starting a virtual assistant business is that you need no prior experience. However, you will want a proven track record of strong organization, project management, communication and more to stand out in the field. Of course, most of these skills are used by many traditional office workers in their day-to-day routine, meaning you likely won’t need specialized training to start a virtual assistant business.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Services offered by virtual assistants

One of the many benefits of becoming a virtual assistant is the wide variety of services that you can offer or specialize in. Many virtual assistants start out with basic administration tasks and find their niche down the road.

While you can do it all as a virtual assistant, it can be easier to market your skills if you specialize in two to three services or specific business niches.

General administration

Many virtual assistants start by offering general administration services. That might include:

Email management.

Calendar management and scheduling.

Customer service over email or phone.

Accounting, invoicing and bookkeeping.

Business marketing

Some virtual assistants specialize in business marketing skills, including:

Blog writing and content creation.

Drafting and sending email newsletters.

Video editing.

Tracking sales.

Facebook ads.

Social media management.

Community management.

SEO services.

Updating and maintaining the editorial calendar.

Ghostwriting.

Creation of social media graphics.

Affiliate management.

Other branding services.

Distributing press releases.

Specialized services

Depending on your previous experience and skills, you might be able to offer specialized services as a virtual assistant, such as:

Graphic design.

Website design and maintenance.

Webinar setup.

Proofreading.

Transcription.

Data entry.

How to start a virtual assistant business in 6 steps

If these skills and services sound like something you’d like to explore, read on for how to start a virtual assistant business of your own.

1. Pick your niche or services offered

One of the first steps you need to complete when starting a virtual assistant business is to decide what type of services you will offer. While it’s possible to do any number of things as a virtual assistant, you should choose a niche based on your specific skills and previous experience.

Most virtual assistants start with basic office and business management skills such as emailing, scheduling, customer support and website maintenance.

Many virtual assistants will also market themselves to an industry in which they have prior experience. For instance, if you’ve previously worked with construction companies, you may decide to specifically market yourself to these companies and their specific needs as a way to set yourself apart from the competition.

2. Write a business plan

One of the most crucial steps when starting any business is to write a business plan . Taking the time to put together this document will help you uncover what the demand is for this type of business, who your competitors are, what services you’ll offer and what you’ll charge, what kind of capital you’ll need to get started, when you can expect to turn a profit and more.

Think of it like this: Your business plan is a contract with yourself (at a minimum; if you plan to seek funding or a business partner down the line, you’ll likely need to share your business plan with them). It’s a place where you can write down your plans, your goals and even your dreams for your business, but it should also be grounded in research and facts. Your business plan should be used as a tool to check in with yourself on your progress and to hold yourself accountable to your business.

Your business plan will serve as a sort of roadmap for your business and will help you stay on track during those crucial first months and years. Of course, this isn’t a one-time exercise; you can and should revisit and update your business plan as your goals and plans change.

3. Register and name your business

The next step in starting your virtual assistant business is to choose a name for your business and to choose your business entity.

When naming your business, you want to choose a name that’s personal to you and that describes your business, while also being available to use and easy to pronounce and remember. You can conduct a business name search on your secretary of state’s website to ensure the name you want isn’t already in use.

At this stage, you will also want to choose the business entity that’s right for you. The most common business entity types are sole proprietorship, LLC and corporation. Each type of business has its benefits and drawbacks and you’ll want to consider your options carefully, as the business entity you choose will affect how you’re taxed, your degree of personal liability and more. We recommend consulting with a business attorney at this stage to make sure you’re weighing all of your options and choosing the best one for your virtual assistant business. Once you’ve made this decision, you can register your business in the state where your business will be based.

4. Invest in the tools of the trade

Once you have a good conceptual idea of what your business is going to look like and have created a plan for how you’ll build it, it’s time to get into the actual operations of your business. Luckily, there’s very little needed to start a virtual assistant business.

Essentially, there are only two things you absolutely need to start a business as a virtual assistant: a laptop with calling capabilities and a stable WiFi connection. However, in addition to these things, you may also consider some additional tools, including:

Business management tools

While these tools aren’t necessary for starting your virtual assistant business, they can be useful to add to your arsenal as your business starts to take off.

Time tracking: One of the ways that many virtual assistants charge clients is by the hour. If you’re working with multiple clients and on multiple projects, a time tracking tool can help you keep track of it all so you know what to charge each client.

Invoicing and accounting: Another tool that can be helpful for operating your virtual assistant business efficiently is invoicing and accounting software . This can make tracking your income and expenses easier, as well as billing your clients and tracking when you’ve been paid.

Project management: Project management tools — such as Trello, Asana, Basecamp and Evernote — can help you keep track of your various clients and the tasks you need to complete for each of them so you can stay on top of your schedule, as well as those of your clients.

Marketing materials

Unless you already have clients lined up when you launch your business, you will need to invest in some marketing materials to spread the word about your new business. These marketing tools don’t need to cost a lot, but they can make a serious difference in your business’s success. Here are a few to consider:

Business website : One of the best ways to show that your virtual assistant business is legitimate is to create a professional-looking website. There are many free and inexpensive tools for building a website. Make sure to include your skills, experience and contact information.

Social media : Another way to present your business as credible is to create a social media presence. The one that makes the most sense for a virtual assistant business is LinkedIn. Create a profile for your business and start sharing industry news, participating in discussions and more to get your business’s name in front of potential new clients.

Business cards : While a little more old-school, business cards can be a great way to spread the word about your business. You never know when you could meet a potential new client — or someone who knows a potential new client — and having a business card on hand to share is key, whether you’re at a networking event or at your local coffee shop.

5. Choose how to price your services

There are many different ways in which to price your time and services as a virtual assistant, but you should decide on pricing before you start taking on clients, so you both know what to expect before entering into a contract.

If you’re not sure how to price your services, do some research to find out what other virtual assistant businesses charge and set your prices accordingly. Here are some pricing formats to keep in mind. (Keep in mind, the example prices below are not necessarily market rates.)

Hourly rate : As you’re getting started as a virtual assistant, the easiest way to price your product is at an hourly rate. You choose what you would like to be paid per hour of work and then bill accordingly. (This is where time tracking tools can really come in handy.)

Hourly packages : Another way to price your time is to offer hourly packages. If your hourly rate is $100 per hour, you can offer a 10-hour package for a slight discount, say $925. The benefit of offering an hourly package and a discount is that you get the total for those hours upfront.

Service packages : Another way to package your time is through a service package. This can be a more complicated pricing structure for those just starting in the virtual assistant business, as you likely don’t know how long a specific task will take. An example of a service package would be a monthly bookkeeping service that you charge a flat fee of $1,200 for. In this case, the number of hours it takes you to complete this task won’t affect how much you make.

Monthly retainer : A favorite pricing option of virtual assistants is the monthly retainer. A monthly retainer is an upfront payment agreed upon between the virtual assistant and the client. That amount gets paid each month no matter how much work you do. A virtual assistant might receive a monthly retainer of $1,500 per month for calendar scheduling. This gives you a predictable source of income, while also ensuring your client will have the help they need.

One-time flat fee : Sometimes a virtual assistant is hired for a specific task. For this type of work, you’ll provide the client with a bid for a one-time flat fee. An example of this is that you might help them plan a set up and run a webinar for $2,000.

6. Create a contract

Before you start work with a client, you’ll need a contract. This contract is an agreement between you and the client. It clearly defines the scope of work you’re being hired for, including what tasks you’ll perform and for how long; the payment terms, including your pricing structure; your status as a contractor; and more.

You will want to give your client time to review this contract before you sign on to work with them. And make sure both parties have agreed to it and signed before you begin work, so you can ensure you’ll be paid appropriately. You can find many examples of virtual assistant contracts online to get you started. You’ll also want to make sure your client sends you the proper tax forms, as well as any ACH deposit paperwork if that’s your preferred payment method.

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Pros and cons of starting a virtual assistant business

If you’re considering how to start a virtual assistant business, evaluating the pros and cons can be a great way to discover if this is the right position for you. As well, you might consider it from the perspective of your clients, there are pros and cons to hiring virtual outsourced labor. Get to know it from both sides to make an informed decision.

Let’s start with the benefits of this line of work.

1. Low overhead costs

A big pro of starting a virtual assistant business is the low startup and overhead costs. A virtual assistant needs only a computer and WiFi, which are two resources most people already have. With that, you’ve got a business.

2. No formal education needed

You don’t need any specialized education to become a virtual assistant. Most of the skills needed to be a virtual assistant are things learned in the day-to-day life of the traditional office employer, or even in daily life.

3. Customizable schedule

One of the best parts about being a virtual assistant is that you get to set your schedule. While many clients might want you to be available during the traditional 9-to-5 workday, you always have the option to find clients in different time zones or with more flexible needs so that you can work the hours you want.

That said, let’s consider the downsides to this business, as well.

1. Finding clients

While this isn’t specifically a con to starting a virtual assistant business, it is a difficulty you will face. Finding the first few clients could be difficult, unless you already have clients lined up from previous jobs. While you’re building your experience and network, you will likely have to hustle to find work. However, once you’ve landed your first few clients — and provided a quality service — it will be easier to find more people to work with.

2. Staying up to date with the latest tech

This may not be a drawback depending on your background and interests, but you will need to stay up to date with the latest operating system and tools. Your clients may all use different email and calendar systems, for instance, and you’ll need to know how to work seamlessly in all of them in order to be an effective virtual assistant.

3. Unsteady income

As is true with any freelance or contract business, you won’t have a reliable paycheck every other week like you would with a salaried job. Even when you have a full client list, your contract may be for only a few weeks or months, and then you’ll need to find something new. To stay on top of this, note in your own calendar when contracts are ending and when you should do outreach to onboard new clients. The good news is, this should be relatively easy since organization is in your blood.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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Setting Up A Virtual Assistant Business Without Getting Stuck In Analysis Paralysis

Setting up a Virtual Assistant business is overwhelming, isn’t it? There are pages and pages about it on the web. It’s hard to know what to do first or where to start. In this blog post, I’ll share an overview of the steps and processes you need for setting it up and getting it running.

This post is part of The Ultimate VA Success Guide: How To Start A VA Business In 2022 . Below you’ll find an overview of all blog posts it includes:

• Setting Up A VA Business Without Getting Stuck In Analysis Paralysis
• Ready To Create Your VA Business Plan? Start With These 9 Untypical Questions
• The 4 VA Key Business Systems That Will Make Or Break Your VA Business
• The 5 VA Business Operations Systems That Will Make Your Biz Run Smoothly!
• Set Up These 16 Must-Have Tools For VAs Before You Launch Your Biz!

So, let’s get started. I remember what it was like when I started way back in 2009. I found tons of helpful information. But the problem was that it was not a complete system or process. I had to try and put all the information together myself and hope I had it right. Sometimes I did, and sometimes I didn’t.

It took lots of trial and error AND time to figure out what I needed and in what order. To help you avoid the same mistakes that I made, I thought I would share my system. Setting up a Virtual Assistant business, after all, is just a series of systems working together.

#1 – Create A Virtual Assistant Business Plan

When setting up a Virtual Assistant business, you need a plan for how and when you will do the necessary work to make it happen. I have a DIY step-by-step Business Launch BluePrint  that walks you through everything you need to set up your business systems; it’s a big old list of tasks to follow.

#2 – Know What To Expect

You need to realize that you feel overwhelmed whenever you do something new because it’s new and you’ve never done it before. Understand going in that you are going to be overwhelmed. You may also feel confused because it’s something you’ve never done before.

For most of us starting, we’ve never built a business before. I was an employee for over 20 years – I had NO clue how to build a business when I started. Expect confusion and overwhelm when you’re starting any new venture. It could be a diet; it could be an exercise routine; it could be a business.

Just go in with your eyes open and an idea of what you’re getting into. It’s NOT easy, regardless of what others may say—it takes hard work to build a successful business, and that includes setting up a Virtual Assistant business.

#3 – Don’t Collect Gurus

Don’t add to your sense of overwhelm or confused by doing what I call “collecting gurus.” What I mean is listening to several different people on how to do something specific—like setting up a Virtual Assistant business.

You may join multiple VA groups on Facebook and subscribe to numerous VA coaches or trainers on YouTube looking for advice or how-tos. The problem with this is you hear, read, or watch eight different ways to do the same thing! You get more confused because I may say one thing and someone else says something completely different.

It’s not that any of the advice is wrong – there is more than one way to set up a VA business. There’s no right or the best way; it just depends on who you’re listening to and the method that they’re using.

Trust me, I know – I am a research junkie, I love to collect research, and I fell into this same trap myself. I listened to podcasts, watched videos, and read every blog post I could find on being a Virtual Assistant. I collected so much data (I had a spreadsheet with 11 different tabs) that I got stuck in Analysis Paralysis and ended up with a massive headache to boot!

Because I had listened to too many people, I had no clue which one to follow or which system to implement. They were all different. I finally had to choose which person I would follow and do what they were teaching or suggesting. Otherwise, I would have stayed stuck  forever!

So if you find yourself collecting gurus, PICK THE ONE that resonates with you the most and follow their advice. Do what they’re suggesting! How do you know if what they’re saying works unless you do it? Whether that’s me or someone else, take action and do the work until you get results. If you don’t get the results, you move on, and if it does work, think how happy you’ll be!

By collecting gurus and experts, you get different opinions on different things. Still, the problem is that you get overwhelmed, even more confused, and then stuck because you don’t know what to do or who to follow. You have to make a decision and then take action.

#4 – Know What It Takes

It takes hard work to launch and set up a Virtual Assistant business. There is a lot to do when you’re building a business, whether it’s a VA business or you’re knitting sweaters for a living. Whatever it might be, there is so much that goes into it.

It’s not something you’re going to do in 30 days. It’s not something you’re going to do in one weekend. Now, you probably could, but the question is, do you want long-term success? If you want long-term success, you have to put in the groundwork.

You have to build the foundation for a solid, long-standing business. You need to put the time and energy into your business’s back end—your business systems. A business is made up of systems, and you need to make sure that those systems are in place.

Besides systems, you also need the skills that clients want. Just like in the job world, it’s all about your skills and expertise. You need to look at your current skill set and how you can use it to your advantage. You don’t need any special Virtual Assistant certification  to be successful.

#5 – Realistic Expectations Are A Must When Setting Up A Virtual Assistant Business

I know I had unrealistic expectations when I started my business because I thought, “Yeah, I can do this, and I can get out of my soul-sucking job in six months.” Ha, was that ever unrealistic? I really didn’t understand what I was getting into or the amount of work that it takes. I’m painting a real picture here for you. Make sure that you set realistic expectations for whatever your life and schedule are.

If you’re working in a 50-hour career plus you’ve got three kids and a two-hour commute, you’re probably not going to build a business in 30 days, at least not one that’s long-standing and successful. Just set realistic expectations and go for it, but be aware of what you’re getting into. It’s not easy.

#6 – Take Action

All right, so part of building a business or anything is taking action to get where you want to go. One of my favorite sayings is, “ Take imperfect action every day.” I am a recovering perfectionist and an overthinker.  I can be my own worst enemy and get in my way all the time, so I have to focus on taking imperfect action every day.

Think about how you can take imperfect action every day to get one step closer to your dream. Whether it’s quitting your job or just making some extra money on the side, you need to take imperfect action to achieve it.

Start With Your Key Business Systems

You could start by implementing your key business systems. These systems are the foundation of your business. Without them, your business is on shaky ground. Remember, a business is a system. We will be diving into each one of these key systems, along with planning and understanding what it takes to set up a Virtual Assistant business that’s successful in this blog series.

Do you have a plan for setting up a Virtual Assistant Business? Feel free to post below and let me know what action you’re taking today to set up your VA biz. All comments and questions are welcome.

Thanks for reading – Susan

PS: Ready to embark on the journey of building a freedom-based business? Join me in Techie Biz in a Box , your comprehensive guide to leveraging systems, automation, and tech. Discover how to streamline your processes and reclaim precious time for the things you love. 

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22 Comments

Thankful for all your info! I’ve joined the free training vault, but I’m confused as to what the difference between the $39 Action Plan and the $5 Getting Started training.. You’ve done a wonderful job putting out a lot of great and simple info and I’m still finding myself a little lost! For someone who is interested in the back end, techie type VA services that has absolutely ZERO experience in any of this (I’m a hair stylist by trade) where would you suggest I start? I am a plan, list type of person. So a checklist of sorts is most beneficial for my brain. Thanks so much!!

Hi Jess, thank you! The Action Plan is a DIY program where the Getting Started System is hands-on training with ongoing support. If you’re looking to learn Tech Skills I would recommend checking out the Techie VA Training Vault at https://www.techiementortraining.com/tva-sales . It focuses on all things techie.

You must have been reading my mind because there is SO much information out there and it makes my head hurt! Love these suggestions and I have enjoyed your webinars and look forward to more great information!

Hi Kara, thank you for taking the time to comment and thanks for your kind words. Be sure to subscribe here or on my podcast or YouTube channels to stay up to date!

Great post! There is soooo much info out there! I’m looking forward to your next posts!

Thank you Justina, glad you liked it!

Hello Susan,

Twice in one day, you’ve taught me – updated my LinkedIn profile, and I need to create systems!

Awesome, so glad you’re inspired and thank you for taking the time to comment.

I love this! There’s so much information out there that it’s so easy to fall into “research mode” and put off actually getting started. I really look forward to reading the content you’ve provided for us! And a step by step system is such a great tool…so thank you!

Thank you Lisa – I hear you on the research mode. You can get stuck in what I call “analysis paralysis”!

Absolutely it needed and you took time to put very details that people need to think about before starting one.

Thank you Jeanine – much appreciated!

Great information! I look forward to the rest of the series as it is definitely overwhelming to get started. I feel like I’ve been running in circles trying to figure things out. I haven’t launched yet due to all the information and fear of messing things up. Thanks so much for sharing!

Thank you Rhonda – much appreciated.

This is fantastic !!! Exactly what I needed to start up VA. Thank you Susan for this awesome blog waiting for the next!

Thank you Concepcion – much appreciated!

Looking forward to future installments of this series.

Thank you Kealoha – much appreciated.

Great post!

Thank you Sheila – much appreciated!

Great blog! I am looking forward to reading on about starting a VA business, as you are absolutely right, it is so confusing and overwhelming to start. Thanks so much for sharing this information in a step by step fashion with us struggling to take it all in.

Hi Debbie, thank you so much for taking the time to comment. I remember what it was like, and now there is even more information out there then when I started!

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What happens if I need more support than I’ve prepaid for? Can I use extra time?

Yes. Virtalent’s flexible monthly plans are, well, just that. Flexible. We know how tricky it can be to forecast your future needs as a small business.

That means, if you need more support from your Virtalent Assistant, they will continue working as instructed. We will simply bill you for the extra time they log to your account above your prepaid balance.

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Virtual Assistant Business Plan Template

Published May.23, 2018

Updated Apr.24, 2024

By: Noor Muhammad

Average rating 3.4 / 5. Vote count: 8

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Table of Content

Virtual assistant business plan for your own VA service

Are you planning to open a virtual assistant business? Nowadays, having a VA for your business is essential to be successful. Entrepreneurs, startups and small business owners struggle with common problems from time, creativity, technological knowledge, organization skills, lack of staffing and directions to mention but a few. Virtual assistants assist you to ruin your business smoothly, balance and securely. According to research, many people across the United State agree there are many benefits of virtual assistants. More than 60 percent respondents indicate convenience in daily life by using VA services.

Executive Summary

2.1 the virtual assistant business.

The Virtual Assistant business will be registered using the name Working Bee and will be situated in San Francisco, California. The business will be owned by Nellie Daniel who is an experienced virtual assistant.

2.2 Management of Virtual Assistant Service

Nellie Daniel manager and owner of Working Bee is an expert virtual assistant who has worked extensively in the virtual assistant industry for over 20 yrs. During her career, Nellie worked with top Virtual assistant companies across the United States. Considering her extensive VA experience, it wasn’t a challenge for her to come up with a virtual assistant business model .

2.3 Customer Focus

Prior starting a virtual assistant business, it is essential to have an in-depth understanding of your local VA market and analysis. Working Bee plans to set up its operation in a strategic location with many entrepreneurs, startups and small business owners. Nellie plans on starting a virtual assistant business checklist to make sure the business starts on the right footing to be successful.

2.4 Business Target

Working Bee plans to offer virtual assistant services to a wide range of customers around the facility. Working Bee intends to come up with a creative marketing approach to stay on top of competition and get good market.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Nellie Daniel is an experienced virtual assistant specialist with a successful career journey in the VA industry. Having worked for different companies across the United States, she understands the necessary procedures on how to start virtual assistant business .

3.2 Aim of Starting the Virtual Assistant Business

Nowadays, small businesses and entrepreneurs need to outsource some of their responsibilities to VA companies for their businesses to grow. The fact that virtual assistants contribute a lot to business growth has made many people opt to use them. With VA trend sweeping across the U.S. Nellie thought it was the right time to start a virtual assistant company to address the market needs.

3.3 How the Virtual Assistant Business will be Started

With over twenty years’ experience in the virtual assistant industry, Nellie Daniel enjoys great experience in the industry. For this reason, she has a keen understanding on what is required to start the business. After carefully studying virtual assistant trends, Nellie has worked closely with experts to come up with a detailed financial plan.

Services for Customers

Virtual assistant companies offer a wide range of services to make a business run smoothly. Instead of small businesses and entrepreneurs hiring full time employees, virtual assistant companies avail services at an affordable fee in accordance to customer preferences. Working Bee intends to offer a wide range of VA services to cater for the needs of various customers. When planning how to start your own virtual assistant business , you should carry out a survey on the market to determine which kind of customers you are looking for. In this case, Working Bee plans to offer the following services:

• Offer a wide range of services in virtual assistant and admin.
• Offer web design and SEO services.
• Offer social media and digital marketing services.
• Offer graphic and banner services.

The virtual assistant industry is ranking in impressive numbers in recent years and for this reason, people venturing into the industry are witnessing fast growth and high profitability.

Marketing Analysis of Virtual Assistant Business Company

According a survey by the Virtual Business Alliance, a global consortium of virtual assistant trade organizations, the average full-time virtual assistant working in the United States grossed $39,452 last year.

When coming up with a virtual assistant business plan , it’s essential to do your homework well. Understanding your local market is the ticket to give you intimate knowledge of local trends. Many virtual assistant companies are being set up to meet the growing demand for VA services and an attractive customer business plan virtual assistant approach is required.

5.1 Market Segment

In order to ensure Working Bee meets its responsibilities, the company will focus of offering on demand VA services. The aim is to keep introducing a wide array of services associated with virtual assistant. A good virtual assistant business plan template should effectively identify potential customers for the business. Working Bee will basically reach out to small businesses and entrepreneurs interested in VA services. After an in-depth market research, Working Bee has identifies the following customer to patronize the company.

5.1.1 Small Businesses

One of the biggest markets for Working Bee is small businesses who are don’t want to have employees full time. The concept of virtual assistant has been embraced by many small businesses that still don’t have enough money to commit to full time employees but want to outsource some of their services. Some of the common services these businesses need a help with include data entry, lead generation, inbound campaigns and customer care services among others.

Statistics indicate small businesses that have been successful have used the services of a virtual assistant on their businesses. The growth witnessed in the virtual assistant industry has been attributing to an increase number of small businesses who wish to grow and be successful. This free virtual assistant business plan template is designed to focus on reaching out to current small businesses in bid to encourage them to use VA services.

5.1.2 Entrepreneurs

This group consists of customers who are looking running their businesses from home. Today, many people have embraced entrepreneurship and thus the need of VA services has grown tremendously. Working Bee plans to create a comprehensive and attractive VA services plan that will attract entrepreneurs to use its services. Working Bee will have an experienced team that will handle entrepreneur’s needs perfectly for them to grow their business.

5.1.3 Digital Marketing Companies

The use of virtual assistant services has gained momentum attracting even digital marketing companies. Today, many small businesses and entrepreneurs are in need of digital marketing services to grow their businesses. With the flow of ready customers for digital marketing companies, they require VA services to deliver their services smoothly. With the increase interest in virtual assistant services, there’s a great market for Working Bee to explore.

5.1.4 Writing Companies

According to Working Bee free virtual assistant business plan , writing companies are also a big market to pursue. Working Bee plans to offer writing, translation and transcribing services to these companies.

5.2 Business Target

Everyone wants to become a VA and Working Bee has an excellent opportunity to launch its services on the market. San Francisco is a big city and Working Bee intends to set up in a strategic location with many small businesses, entrepreneurs and startups. In order to boost revenue, Working Bee plans to offer a variety of services for its customers. With a good strategy in place, Working Bee hopes to achieve a 60-70% increase in annual sales.

5.3 Product Pricing

When you decide to start virtual assistant business , it is necessary to do a market study and compare prices from competitors. Given the increasing number of VA companies, Working Bee is keen to have competitive pricing in order to stay on top of the games and complete with other industry players.

The VA industry is experiencing rapid growth as the virtual assistant services are becoming more embraced by many companies and businesses. With more businesses and entrepreneurs keen on running their businesses smoothly to achieve growth, outsourcing their work to virtual assistant companies has become inevitable. Working Bee plans to use the best virtual assistant business ideas to remain relevant in the fast growing industry.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Working Bee plans to come up with a business model that will sustain business operations and ensure customers enjoy superior quality products. There are other virtual assistant companies in the city but the business has identified strategies to help remain ahead of competitors.

6.2 Sales Strategy

For Working Bee to attain its sales goals, the following strategies plans have been identified to help market the business.

• Plan an event to show customers what kind of services you plan to offer.
• Offer product and customer service training sessions to keep staff up to date about the latest virtual assistant services available. Doing this empowers staff to convince customers why they should spend their money on Working Bee.
• Embrace SMS text messaging as a way to retain clients and build long-term customer relationships and loyalty.
• Place signage at strategic points within the customer target areas to create awareness and market the business.
• Advertise the virtual assistant business on local media channels such as radio, newspapers and television
• Use social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to market Working Bee.

6.3 Sales Forecast

To achieve its targets, Working Bee has formulated a sales forecast to demonstrate how the business will perform when it starts operations. In order to be successful, you need to learn how to start your own virtual assistant business with the right sales forecast.

Personnel Plan

Working Bee hopes to employ well trained and experienced team to run the operations of the virtual assistant company on a daily basis. Starting your own virtual assistant business , you should include a personnel budget to enable the business have an idea of how much it will spend on salaries.

7.1 Personnel Plan

Working Bee is owned by Nellie Daniel who will also be the manager of the VA Company. As preparations are put in place for the business to start operations to the public, the following staff will be employed in the company.

Owner/Manager 2 Marketing Executives 1 Cashier 5 Writers 2 Translators 10 Virtual Assistants

Successful applicants will be undergo training to familiarize themselves with company operations to boost productivity and performance. They will also be allocating some time for bonding activities to encourage the team work spirit.

7.2 Average Salaries

Working Bee plans to compensate its members of staff the following salaries within the first three years of operation. If you plan to start a virtual assistant business , you must allocate finances for their salaries.

Financial Plan

Working Bee has come up with a detailed financial plan that will guide the operations of the company. Initial capital and business expenses need to be well-defined when starting a virtual assistant business . In this business plan, Nellie Daniel will finance the virtual assistant business assisted by two investors. Once a defined approach on how to set up a virtual assistant business has been unveiled a bank loan for business will be secured to help finance budget deficiencies.

8.1 Important Assumptions

Financial forecast for Working Bee shall be based on the assumptions below.

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

The Brake-even Analysis for Working Bee is shown in the graph below.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

Profit and Loss information for the virtual assistant calculated on a monthly and annual basis is shown below.

8.3.1 Monthly Profit

8.3.2 Yearly Profit

8.3.3 Monthly Gross Margin

8.3.4 Yearly Gross Margin

Profit and Loss Analysis for Working Bee is shown below.

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

Below is a summary of pro forma cash flow, subtotal cash received, subtotal cash spent on operations, subtotal cash spent and subtotal cash from operations.

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

Below is a Projected Balance Sheet for Working Bee that shows assets, capital, liabilities, long term assets and current liabilities.

8.6 Business Rations

The following is the Ratio Analysis, Business Ratios and Business Net Worth for the virtual assistant company.

Download Virtual Assistant Business Plan Sample in pdf

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