by Glenore Weal

Created on: March 11, 2010

In these challenging financial times, many of us have been forced to think of new ways to stay fiscally afloat.  Job postings are fewer than ever before, and while the media proclaims that the recession is ending, your reality may not reflect that.  If you've been employed as an administrative assistant, you might want to consider looking for work as a virtual assistant.

A "virtual assistant" is an administrative assistant who works remotely, i.e., from one's home office rather than in a traditional corporate setting.  Even companies that are cutting to the bone may need administrative help in the form of data entry, word processing, faxing, and email management.  The benefits of hiring a virtual assistant include avoiding the costs of employee benefits and managing payroll when they may only need someone to assist on a short term project.  The benefit to the virtual assistant is the ability to work from their home office without having to deal with commuting costs, traffic, and buying clothes for work.

If you are considering this type of work, there are several things to consider.  Does your home office have the latest software?  Almost everyone has the standard Microsoft Office suite of applications, but you might also want to consider getting a Skype account or webcam to communicate with your potential virtual employer.  Is your internet access reliable?  Since you will be receiving your assignments via email or on the web, it is imperative that you are able to receive them and be able to correspond with the project manager.  Is your home office relatively quiet and distraction-free?  If your work is likely to be interrupted by small children or pets who need frequent attention, you may find it difficult to get a few hours of quiet time to concentrate on your assignment.  Are you willing to hustle to find work?  There are several online companies that virtual assistants can join where assignments are frequently posted that you can bid on.  You might also advise friends or acquaintances that your skills are available for hire.  Still, self employment often involves some ebb and flow and you'll want to do your best to be prepared for the lean times.  Another important factor in becoming a virtual assistant is your temperament and the way you like to work.  Some virtual assistants miss the camaraderie of having lunch with co-workers or chatting over the water cooler.  You'll want to make sure that you schedule your time wisely with breaks built in to rest your eyes and stretch your legs, and maybe to occasionally step away from the computer and take yourself to lunch!

With a little patience, hard work, good skills, and the ability to market your skills well, you may find that working as a virtual assistant is right up your alley.  You can make your own hours, manage your assignments without close supervision, and if you manage your time well, you can even work at it part-time while working a full time job outside of your home.

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