Being a Virtual Assistant (VA) has several advantages but at the same time there are certain hurdles that many VAs face while attempting to land their first VA job. In this article, we will shed light on the obstacles that a VA might experience as a beginner and provide tips for overcoming them as well. Let’s begin.

Finding Clients: Finding suitable clients is the most intimidating task for beginners. At times, even the established VAs end-up losing their long-term clients and have to start prospecting for new clients again. As a VA, you should not take assignments from multiple clients too soon. Since you are your own boss, you have the liberty to work with those clients whom you are comfortable with and avoid the nut job clients that will make your life miserable. In order to properly identify your ideal client, understand your target market and choose clients who value the work your skills and will appreciate your talents. If you are ever matched with a bad client, walk away fast! The stress isn’t worth the money you’re making!

Managing Time: Since you are your own boss, you are responsible for day to day management of your entire business. In addition, you have to properly maintain a healthy family life balance and take care of your clients’ needs also. As a VA, always improve your managerial skills and follow a realistic timetable for project completions. Keep your client sin the loop and informed of any delays that could negatively affect delivery dates.

Cut-throat Competition: Initially, it is extremely difficult to obtain a VA position because competition is very tough in this field. Cut-throat competitors makes it difficult to generate business. They often charge meager amounts and try to under cut you at every turn. Don’t give up. Simply stick to your advertised rates and prove yourself to your clients. In no time at all, you’ll have a steady flow of clients that are willing to pay a suitable salary to a VA with your marketable skills.

Absence of Additional Benefits: It is not easy to work as a VA. Being a freelancer, a VA does not receive any additional benefits such as vacations, sick leave or health insurance. VAs are typically paid on an hourly or per project basis however, there may be lapses in your payments. Plus, VAs only get paid when they work so if he/she falls sick or is unable to work, they won’t get paid. To overcome this hurdle, search for employers who can pay you a standard wage that is livable. Simultaneously, secure health insurance for you and your family (even if you have to pay for it out-of-pocket).

Cash flow: Lack of cash is another major challenge for a new VA. Being a novice, a VA may not have adequate clients to support a full-time living. With this in mind, try and have a stash of cash so that you can sustain yourself while building your business. When you have an increase in clients and income, don’t spend it. Instead, save a large percentage of your income so that you can support yourself during slower periods. Simultaneously, you should find out additional ways of earning money while establishing your business.

These are some of the challenges faced by a VA while landing their first job. However, if you follow the above tips you can overcome these obstacles and find suitable work that will utilize your skills and fill up your checkbook or PayPal account with cold-hard cash.