A Virtual Assistant can do many jobs. The usual list you see includes: email management, newsletter creation & updating, website maintenance, search engine optimization, customer support, article creation, web research, graphic and web design (logo's, brochures, website creation, etc…).

These days, new VA services are emerging including real estate, IT support and text translation. If you have a hobby or a niche that is unique, you may want to offer yourself as a virtual assistant in that area. For example, if you love building computers, offer your services online. You never know what good can come of it unless you try!

Some VA's specialize in 1 or 2 categories while others are wide and varied in the services they offer. If you have expertise in any of these areas, then you should have no problem being a VA.

To become a VA there are a few simple steps:

1) Get a website and domain – this is essential to Virtual Assisting, you need an online presence.

2) Create a client list – this could be promoting online or even going to business parks in the area of town you live in.

3) Figure out a pricing structure – you can look online at different VA sites to get an idea of going rates, you may want to start at a lower price when you are first getting started.

4) Go live! This means start working, emailing your clients, etc.

Some advantages over a normal 9-5:

- Being able to work from anywhere

- Being able to set your own work schedule

- Being able to do what you love to do

Being a VA doesn't mean you don't have to work! Although it is fun, you still have to build a client base. Professionalism in your communication with clients and potential clients is not only recommended, it's essential!

If you can build a client list and a good reputation, you will be well on your way to being a successful VA!