How to get started as an Associate VA

As a new VA, have you thought about looking for Associate VA work? Working as an Associate VA is a great way to boost your confidence and help establish yourself within the VA community. Many established VAs are actively looking for Associates to take on client work to help ease their workload and expand their business.

It is essential to know from the outset: an Associate role is not a training role or an easy option. You still need to have started your own business and be actively promoting it. However, if you are looking to boost your finances while you are getting up and running, while also honing your skills and gaining testimonials, it is an excellent route to take. You can work with more than one VA at a time and offer your specialist skills to help you stand out.

But if you have never worked as an Associate, how can you reach those VAs looking for help?

Raise your profile Start by actively raising your profile. Do not be shy about sharing your areas of expertise and promoting your own VA business. Be visible on social media, post consistently, and always be professional in your approach and with your content. Make sure your personal profile is set up correctly to make it easy for potential clients and other VAs to know what you do.

Be active in the VA Community If you are looking to work with other VAs, be an active participant in VA groups and memberships. This includes our very own paid VA Membership or our free community, the VA Help Desk. There are many benefits you can gain from networking with other Virtual Assistants. Take the time to raise your profile within those groups by getting involved in conversations, answering questions, and offering support and encouragement.

Build relationships with other Virtual Assistants The VA community is a close one, so you must build relationships. Look to mix in the right circles and network with other VAs. This is not just about being around in case there is a potential for Associate work; it is about getting to know people. Tessa Hull shares great ideas for this in her Connections that Count training delivered as part of the VA Membership.

Let other VAs know you are looking for an Associate role If you want the work, you must ask for it. Put out requests for Associate work and share what tasks you are looking to take on. Ask if anyone is looking to fill an Associate role and what criteria they require. You can do this freely in any of the VACT paid communities. In the free communities, ensure this is done on the designated threads to keep the groups organised.

Get comfortable with promoting yourself You must be comfortable with self promotion. Talk about the skills that help you stand out. Discuss your experiences in previous roles and your present VA business. Share your wins and client testimonials. Talk about what you want to achieve with your own business and the goals you have.

Working as an Associate VA is a great way to boost your confidence. If you are looking for this work, follow the tips above to get the message out. Soon, you will be on the road to being a sought after Associate VA and a valued member of the VA community.  I have an affordable Masterclass on how to find clients as an Associate VA here in the VA Training Academy Shop.