Virtual Assistant Forums | Work from Home

VaVaVirtual · #1 (**permalink**) 10-28-2011

I just came across O'Desk and wondered has anyone used O'Desk to find Va jobs or search for VA's? What was your experience like? Have you gotten a lot of clients from it? etc.

Paulette · #2 (**permalink**) 10-28-2011

I've seen a number of people talking about this on the forums. I finally went to go take a look at it a few days ago and honestly, I feel this site is better suited for VA's in emerging in economies. Take a look at some of the jobs. A lot of those employers are looking to pay like $5 an hour. No thanks.

bridiej · #3 (**permalink**) 10-28-2011

This topic has come up a number of times, most recently here How do you compete with THAT?

dmcadams · #4 (**permalink**) 10-28-2011

I found that I spent way too much time on O'Desk finding jobs that paid well under what I was looking for. I had better luck with Elance.

lukeg · #5 (**permalink**) 10-29-2011

FWIW, I have been taking their tests and adding them to my CV. So, even if they don't offer much in the way of income...perhaps the accreditation is of some intangible value.

MondayMorn · #6 (**permalink**) 10-29-2011

I looked at these types of sites when I was first getting my business off the ground, and most of the jobs that were posted were looking to have them done for a minimum third of of I was charging - and a lot of times less than that. I quickly abandoned the thought and focused my time on getting clients in a more traditional way.

netobiasclericalsolutions · #7 (**permalink**) 10-30-2011

I agree I signed up for both and they offer much lower than my rates.

PeppyM · #8 (**permalink**) 11-05-2011

Don't completely eliminate oDesk from your realm of possibilities. For the new VA, it may be just the ticket. I have a friend, who has been working for them since last spring. He has established quite a good reputation and is now turning work away because he cannot do it all. He has recently raised his hourly rate to $20/hour and will be raising it again soon. He has gathered a large number of folks, who will attest to his work. He has also learned new skills, since working through oDesk. Frankly, I don't have the patience and I resent the tone of many of the ads. Perhaps, I am sabotaging myself, but every time I read their jobs, I cringe at the "demands" that are put forth.

VaVaVirtual · #9 (**permalink**) 11-09-2011

I am torn Peppy. I like the idea for building a reputation, but know that I am worth more than $2-3/hour. Same for my partner as well. We have a few clients right now, but are always hoping to grow. I am up in the air about what to do.