Hi, I am a mom that would love to work at home as a VA. I am wonder wear to start. Can anyone tell me some of the websites they find work on?

I think most of us find work through networking where our ideal clients are, with other VAs, and through referrals - it's a bit more complicated than just scanning a job board for an open project.

In order to truly build a practice as a VA you need to start with at least the basics for getting yourself established so that when you do approach a potential client you present a polished, professional business image *and* the confidence to win their contract!

There are a few aspects you'll want to start with but I might suggest brainstorming a list of services you're qualified and skilled to offer and branch out from there.

There are lots of great and informative threads here on the boards as well that will help you as you move forward in setting up your business.

I hope that helps! Feel free to ask questions as you read through the posts here...

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Sorry, posted the last one in the wrong place.

No problem at all it's already been taken care of!

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I second what Tess suggested! Your business will definitely go a lot further than if you do a project here and there and solely rely on job boards. Start by developing a business plan, identify your target market(s) and create an online presence via a web site or even a blog. Get to know other VAs and you may open yourself up to subcontracting opportunities! Join networking communities within the VA industry and your target market, along with attending local networking events sponsored by a Chamber or Commerce or other business organizations.

I did find one of my best clients from Guru.com, but I have to warn you that there are plenty of lemons out there that pay only peanuts so you may find that you are spending your business building time going after the wrong types of clients and projects.

Other sites such as Elance, Craigslist and Sologig may be worth a look here and there, but I recommend that sparingly!

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Doreen R. Patrick, MVA, ACS, CIVA
www.virtualbusinesspartners.net

I am really new to guru.com also but I believe that this is a great website to visit and place bids. I see the opportunity to place bids and you can choose what projects fall into your experience and skills. Best, Lauren
www.delegationnation.com

Congrats on a fabulous decision. Being a VA is a wonderful career to pursue. I suggest the following to start getting your name out there and getting work:

1. Buy a book on Virtual Assistance so that you know more about the industry. It also help you with learning where to find clients.

2. Join associations and reply to RFP's

3. Network your brans out on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin etc

4. The main thing is having a website to get started. The more professional you look the better.

Good luck

I've always subscribed to the belief that clients should find you and not the other way around. Providing an exceptional service to clients is paramount. Once you've established you can do this then it's all about marketing. Draw clients to you via your website, social media, networking, networking and networking. Provide quality content for people to follow and find out about you.

This of course is my opinion only and doesn't mean that everyone will agree with me. However, it's worked for me and its how I've always gained clients.

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Shari Sultana
Online Business Manager (marketing for retail ecommerce)

I totally agree with Shari and it's what has worked well for me too...especially in terms of getting who you see as your ideal client. It's very much about the professional image that you portray, getting yourself seen either online or offline and engaging with people who would be good clients for you.

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Kimberly
Facebook Marketing Magic!