If you've ever thought about working from home but didn't know where to start—virtual assisting might be the perfect place.

No matter what area of virtual assisting you choose to provide service, it's fairly easy to set up part-time and requires very low capitol. And if you're currently working, you'd be able to continue working at your day job while you build your clientele.

This type of business can quickly become full-time since the flexibility allows you to able to set your own hours, while enjoying all the perks that comes from working at home.

Nature of the Work

Virtual assistants can provide a multitude of services like administrative, clerical, accounting and/or technical support functions to businesses and business professionals. They are invaluable assets to these professionals that either do not have the time to do it themselves, or are unable to employ a full-time employee to perform those tasks.

Work Environment

Normally virtual assistants perform their duties from home; however, they do work on-site on occasion when it is agreeable to both parties involved.

Benefits

• Very low start up costs
• Set your own goals
• Decide on your own work hours
• Work anywhere
• Set your own hourly rate ($25 to $30 per hour)
  

Disadvantages

• No paid vacations
• No paid sick days
  
• No camaraderie
• Pay your own state and federal taxes
  

Some Types of Virtual Business

• Bookkeeping
• Secretarial
• Web Design
• Reception
• Transcription - Legal and Medical
• Billing / Invoices
  

Equipment

• Computer or laptop with a fast connection such as cable or DSL. A laptop will allow you to the most flexibility since you'd be able to work virtually anywhere. For laptops, you'll need a LaptopConnect service for Internet connect ability.
  
• Computer application software like word processing, spreadsheet, accounting, etc. (depending on your chosen field of support). OpenOffice offers a free suite of applications which include word processing, spreadsheets, drawing, database and presentation.
  
• Remote Computer Access Application software like pcAnywhere and GoToMyPC. These types of applications allow you to connect to your clients computer remotely.
  
• Fax Machine -Conventional or through a computer application.
• Headset - Allows you to perform tasks hand-free if necessary.
  
• Dedicated Phone Line - Using a service like MagicJack can be a very cost effective way to start. You can't go wrong with unlimited long distance calling options starting as low as $19.95 a year. You'll solve two problems with this option: Dedicated phone line and no extra charges for outbound long distance calls.
  

Become an Expert

If you have drive and determination, you will succeed. Never give up and learn everything you can in your chosen field. Your clients will look to you for support and guidance, so give it your all and become an expert.