Skills required to become an excellent Virtual Assistant

If you have the desire to start your virtual or remote assistant career, as with any other job it’s important to prepare yourself. Becoming an effective and efficient Virtual assistant doesn’t happen instantly. You don’t immediately obtain the skills that are required to perform the different virtual assistant tasks. However, you can develop the skills and grow the necessary knowledge as long as you are motivated to excel.

Before we deep dive on the skills required to be an excellent virtual assistant, let’s first discuss the basic tools/equipment you will need to start your online career.

Of course, first on the list is a reliable and stable broadband connection, either DSL, Cable or Fiber with a minimum of 5mbps. And since working as a virtual assistant is a remote job you will be working with your computer so you need to invest in technology. Here is a summary of minimum specifications your computer should have:

– CPU: Quad Core 2.0 / 2.5+ GHz CPU (The higher the better)
– Processor: i5 / Ryzen 5 (The higher the better)
– RAM: 8GB+ (The higher the better)
– Monitor (some would require dual monitor)
– Headset with mic (for team meetings / huddles)
– Webcam (for team meetings / huddles)

Now that you have the basic equipment set-up, it’s time for you to learn the skills and characteristics of a high-performing virtual assistant.

Oral Communication and Writing skills First and foremost, you will be communicating through video call, chats and email not only to your employer, team members but with clients as well which requires for you to be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Virtual assistant tasks that require these skills are sending reports, managing emails, making presentations, as well as client support.

Computer skills

Computer skills is a must for all virtual assistants. Programs like Microsoft Word and Excel are the basics but having knowledge with file sharing apps as well as project management tools are also important. Advanced internet skills may also be needed if the client requires maintenance and support for his/her business website or database system.

Initiative and Decision-making skills The ability to take initiative and making decisions independently are vital especially when you’re working in different time zones or the employer is not around to attend to your
query. You should be able to think on your feet and take initiative in these circumstances You can research for possible solutions rather than waiting for the client to respond. If it’s a decision that the employer really needs to make then at least you would have offered solution and save them the time.

Self-regulation and trustworthiness The ability to work independently and having the integrity to work on tasks during the designated time is an essential characteristic of an excellent virtual assistant. Being disciplined enough to avoid distractions and not letting your personal matters affect your work is a skill that you must develop. You should have respect for your employer or client by making sure that personal matters don’t interfere with your work will make you a valuable asset. Because the nature of the job allows more freedom, one must be trustworthy and can self-regulate in order to succeed.

Continuous Upskilling In order for you to be valuable to your employer or client, you need to stay on top of your game. You need to keep up with the latest technology and make an effort to learn on a daily basis. Treat every day differently and welcome the opportunity to learn new things. Commit to being the best you can be and you will thrive in this industry.

Every employer or client may be different. They may require specific skill sets. However, these skills that I have just given you are what will make you become an effective and excellent virtual assistant.