Virtual Assistants or VAs are in high demand. They provide administrative help to people around the world. It’s a growing field and a great opportunity. If you’re considering becoming a virtual assistant, congratulations. Being self employed offers a number of benefits.

Before you get started there are a few things you’ll want to have. One of those things may be a certification or specialized training. While you don’t have to have any formal training to succeed as a VA, it can certainly help.

The Benefits of Certification and/or Training

While VA certification and training isn’t required to start your own successful business it can help. Certification can:

Help set you apart from your competition. Some potential clients may choose you over your competition because you’re certified. You can use your certification as a marketing tool.

Help you establish a profitable business. Many virtual assistant training programs walk their students through the entire process of starting your own business. You’ll cover the skills and trainings clients want you to know. You’ll also learn how to market and grow your VA business. Your certification and training can help justify higher hourly rates.

Broaden your skills and knowledge. You may already have a few marketable skills. You can, of course use these to build your VA business. A certification or training program can help you add more skills and knowledge to your portfolio of services. Many training programs offer technical skills and training. You’ll be able to offer more.

Specialized knowledge means higher fees. Some VA training programs offer very specialized knowledge. This knowledge can mean you are able to demand a higher hourly rate.

Confidence booster. There’s just something helpful about going through a training program. When you pass your certification test you may feel more prepared to start your business. Confidence does matter when dealing with clients. If you’re confident in your skills, your clients will be too.

Networking. Some training programs offer you the ability to connect with other VAs. This can be extremely helpful. It’s nice to be able to connect with others who are going through the same challenges.

Choosing a Training Program

Because VAs are in such high demand, there are a number of programs to choose from. Make sure the program you choose:

* Fits your budget.
* Offers the training and information you want or need to learn.
* Is well-reviewed by other virtual assistants.

Do you need to be certified to own a successful VA business? No, absolutely not. VAs around the globe are making a good living without certification. Can certification help you achieve success? Yes. VA certification and training offers a number of business-building benefits.