Get paid for being organised: How to become a virtual assistant

You know how your friends ask you to help plan an event, organise a group project or remind everyone about an important deadline? What if you could turn those skills into a job and earn money from them?

That is one way to become a virtual assistant!

A virtual assistant, also called a VA, is someone who helps people or businesses complete tasks online. Instead of working in the same office as their clients, virtual assistants can work from home or another location with a computer, phone and internet connection.

Also read: The colorful Yoruba twins festival

What does a virtual assistant do?

Virtual assistants help busy people stay organised and get things done. Their tasks may include answering emails, booking appointments, organising files, managing social media pages and responding to customer messages. Some also help with research, typing documents and preparing reports. For example, a small business owner who has too many messages to answer might hire a virtual assistant to help manage their inbox.

What skills do you need?

The good news is that you do not need to know everything before you start. Some everyday skills can give you a head start.

Communication: You should be able to write clear messages, answer questions politely and understand instructions.

Organisation: Keeping track of tasks, meeting deadlines and arranging information are important parts of the job.

Computer skills:  Knowing how to use email, create documents and organise information will help you work better. Tools such as Google Docs, Google Sheets and Google Calendar are useful places to start.

Time management: You need to complete tasks when promised, even when you have several things to do.

How can you get started?

You do not need an expensive office or lots of money to begin learning. Here are four simple steps.

1. Learn the basics: Find free online lessons about virtual assistance, email management and office tools. Practise using what you learn.
2. Choose your skills: Start with one or two tasks you enjoy. You might choose organising schedules, managing social media or preparing documents.
3. Create sample work: Practise by creating a weekly schedule, organising a sample spreadsheet or writing a professional email. These examples can show people what you can do, even if you have never had a client.
4. Look for opportunities: When you are ready, you can explore platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr or connect with business owners through LinkedIn. You could also ask trusted adults about small businesses that may need help.

Can you make money from it?

Yes! Virtual assistants can earn money by charging for their time, tasks or services. However, your earnings will depend on your skills, experience, clients and workload. Finding your first client may take time, so keep practising and improving.

If you are under 18, check the age rules of any platform before signing up. Some freelance websites require users to be adults, so you may need a parent or guardian to help you find safe and suitable opportunities.

Be careful of online job scams, too. Avoid offers that promise huge earnings for almost no work or demand suspicious payments before giving you a job. Never share your passwords or sensitive personal information with strangers.

Becoming a virtual assistant is one way to turn useful skills into an income opportunity. You can start by learning, practising and helping with small tasks. Who knows? The skill you begin learning today could become part of your future career!