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Tools and Software

The Must-Have Tools for Starting a Virtual Assistant Business in 2026

19th May 2026

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Starting your VA business and wondering what tools you actually need? Before you spend a penny, read this. We cut through the noise and give you the honest, practical breakdown of the must-have tools for virtual assistants in 2026, including what to skip until you’re ready for it.

Best Tools to Manage Your VA Content Without the Overwhelm

1st April 2026

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Consistency is king, but “winging it” on the day is a recipe for burnout. I’m breaking down the best tools to help you capture inspiration and organise your VA business content without the fluff or the overwhelm.

How to Use ChatGPT to Find Great Restaurants for Clients (and What’s Coming Next)

1st July 2025

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If you’re a Virtual Assistant who regularly books restaurants for clients, you might be wondering “Can AI actually help  with this?” The short answer? Yes. And it’s getting better by the day. While AI can’t (yet) read your client’s mind or magically know their favourite table at The Ivy, tools like ChatGPT are already capable of saving you time, helping you generate ideas, and even handling parts of the booking process. Let’s break down what’s possible, and where this is all heading.

Physical Diaries and Planners: Helping Virtual Assistants Become Business Owners

21st October 2024

my pa planner pink
In our digital world, we shouldn’t overlook the value of a physical planner, especially for Virtual Assistants (VAs) aiming to grow their business and really stand in the shoes of being the business owner. I am often asked what do I use to help me run the VA Training Academy and the wider VACT Limited – and it is a a physical planner.  Over the years I have used many different planners but one I have come back to several years in a row is the MY PA Planner. 

7 Best Time Tracking Tools for Virtual Assistants

8th June 2024

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Tracking time has to be the number one priority for a Virtual Assistant. When you’re billed by the hour, work flexible schedules AND deal with several clients, you NEED a tool in place to accurately track where your time is going.

Why Virtual Assistants Need Website Support Plans

15th November 2023

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As a Virtual Assistant, you’ll rely heavily on your website when it comes to client acquisition and retention. Your site needs to be as efficient, seamless, and reliable as the services you provide to reassure clients that you can successfully support your business.  But to do that, your website requires constant care and attention.  But why? I hear you cry!

How Virtual Assistants track their time with Minutedock

2nd November 2023

how to track your time using minutedock
If you’re a Virtual Assistant who charges by the hour, then you’ll need a way of recording your time. Clients need to know they’re paying solely for the time you spend on their task, and it kinda helps if you know how much to bill them for! If you charge by the project, then you probably won’t need a time tracker that you share with the client, but if you charge an hourly rate, then you will. Why choose Minutedock?

How to Effectively Manage Social Media for Multiple Clients

26th April 2021

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Managing social media for multiple clients requires more than just creativity; it demands a solid system. Learn how to maintain brand individualisation, build effective cheat sheets, and use batch scheduling to scale your VA business without burning out. This guide covers everything from buyer personas to content curation tools for the busy Virtual Assistant.

How to share your computer screen with someone else

4th September 2015

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How many times have you tried to explain a technical fix to a client, only for them to stay completely confused? It is time to stop talking and start showing. I have reviewed the best screen sharing tools for 2026, including the shift from Skype to Teams and the power of asynchronous video. Read the blog to find your new favourite tool.

How to share passwords securely with your clients

31st July 2015

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Security is not just a feature of your VA business; it is a core value. Sending passwords via email or plain text is a liability. My latest post explores professional alternatives like shared vaults and self-destructing links. Discover how to handle sensitive data like a pro.

About AMANDA

Amanda Johnson, Founder of VA Training Academy®, Military Veteran, VA Coach Trainer and Mentor - wearing her miniature medals

Amanda Johnson is not just a mentor; she is a catalyst for transformation in the Virtual Assistant industry, helping professionals not only start but scale their businesses to new heights. Her dedication to her clients’ success is matched only by her commitment to integrity, honesty, and empowerment.

VACT logo - home of the VA training academy, the UK VA Conference and the UK VA Awards

Welcome to our refreshed home!

We’ve given VACT’s VA Training Academy® a makeover, but your favourite resources are still here. 

Check it out, update your bookmarks, and let us know what you think of our new look – we’re excited!

Be sure to explore our updated courses and free resources too. We’ve got awesome new stuff coming that you won’t want to miss.

Thanks for joining us!

VACT logo - home of the VA training academy, the UK VA Conference and the UK VA Awards

Welcome to our refreshed home!

We’ve given VACT’s VA Training Academy® a makeover, but your favourite resources are still here. 

Check it out, update your bookmarks, and let us know what you think of our new look – we’re excited!

Be sure to explore our updated courses and free resources too. We’ve got awesome new stuff coming that you won’t want to miss.

Thanks for joining us!