While not all VA's have "formal" training, some of them elect to by attending VA courses like those offered through VirtualAssistanceU and AssistU. But, if a person has good business sense, marketing skills and a passion, like all entrepreneurs, it is doable with or without "formal training".

In the UK it has been the practice for secretarial staff to have RSA or other similar qualifications. Most VAs have this sort of background but as mentioned above, someone who has been a PA for 20+ years has experience that cannot be gained with any qualifications. Clients also expect you to expand your knowledge to aid them so you sometimes have the chance to learn new skills and bespoke software.

But, beware of some pitfalls - many virtual assistants end up working long hours (as with any start up business) in the first few years and some continue to work odd and/or long hours well after their practice becomes successful. Be sure you are willing to put in the time to make your VA service a success.

Try to find a niche to focus on - a way to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Have a proper home office in place and figure out what your rates will be - and remember to advertise, advertise, advertise - be it via paid efforts or by making a "brand" out of your name. Christina advises, "Don't think that because you've hung out your shingle or built your website that clients will begin to bang down your door. Contribute to the business communities, brand yourself, brand your agency and let people know what you can do for them. The ability to market your business and yourself is extremely important in this business."

Audrey Hoffman is a successful entrepreneur who owns several businesses - including http://www.speedy-incorporation.com/ - a site that offers information about incorporating a business online as well as simple LLC formation in all 50 states.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Audrey_Hoffman

Become a Virtual Assistant aims to help those who wish to become a VA but we cannot give details on expected earnings or types of work a VA could expect to gain. This, like any business, is down to advertising your business and networking, both of which take time from your working hours. Remember that you run your business, it does not run you.