Why start a Virtual Assistant business?

work from home business opportunities There are several reasons why a virtual assistant business makes a lot of sense for someone who wants to start their own business and work from home:

Every business needs admin staff or contractors
Most small business owners don’t want to manage the day to day operations, instead focussing on getting new sales and growing their own business or simply doing the work
It is work that you can complete from anywhere and often in flexible working hours
It is work you can do as a virtual assistant

Starting your own Business

Although there are opportunities to buy a franchised business, there are compelling reasons to go out on your own and start one up from scratch. A business is based mainly around your knowledge of software programs and the area of work you’re in. Your success will also depend on how well you get on with people and how efficient and cost effective you are, particularly if you are a virtual assistant.

If you are a people person and a hard worker you might find that you can pick up your first customers by word of mouth marketing with your friends.

Steps to starting your virtual assistant business

Here’s a quick guide to help you on your journey in starting your own business:

Choose a business name and domain name and REGISTER them (if you want)
Choose a business structure (sole trader, company etc) and REGISTER it
Set yourself up with the ATO for ABN and GST
Open up a bank account and Paypal account
Decide what you want to offer and how much you want to charge
Create a website to promote your services and rates
Create business cards so you can network and get new clients
Setup your own bookkeeping software so you can start invoicing
Join a professional industry organisation to provide credibility
Register with ATO as a BAS agent (if you do want to lodge BAS’s for clients)
Ensure you keep up to date with software and bookkeeping regulations
Build your business
Pay your bills on time, save some money and enjoy yourself too!

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Internet and Office Requirements

Because you’re operating remotely you need to be contactable, efficient and productive – completing work quickly and sharing your results with your supervisor or employer (client).

Technical

A Wired Broadband Internet connection. (Min 5mbps download and above 0.7 for upload, see speed test below)
Google Chrome
Have a quiet space to work minimum to no background noise
Have a reliable computer with USB connected headset (Voip Compatible ideally)
Have an intermediate level of PC skills.
You will be required to use many online applications as well as setting up your email address
Use Dropbox for file sharing so downloads and uploads