Free or inexpensive classes - Virtual Assistant Forums

permalink · #1 (**permalink**) 09-11-2008

Hi - I am new to this forum and very eager to begin my VA business. I have done lots of research but still have so many questions. On a limited budget, I was wondering if anyone knew a resource I could take advantage of to learn Quicken and Powerpoint for free or very inexpensively. I have the programs but learn better hands-on in a classroom setting. Thanks. Belinda (lindybindy)

anisemama · #2 (**permalink**) 09-11-2008

I'm not sure if they'll have it, but for PowerPoint and other Microsoft programs, you might want to consider checking out the Microsoft website.

Also, if you qualify for financial aid, you could take classes at your local community college. Many community colleges have administrative assistant certificate or degree programs, and they'll offer many computer classes.

I know all about tight budgets, so I'm always looking for free. Many companies with offer training on their programs for free as one more way to get people to buy the program.

kimadhd · #3 (**permalink**) 09-11-2008

There are quite a few on the Microsoft website and there is FreeEd.net and Brainbench to certify and learn on.

Ev1envysthis · #4 (**permalink**) 09-12-2008

Kimadhd,

Thanks for the websites, they are a great source for free stuff. Nice job!

NewVA08 · #5 (**permalink**) 09-12-2008

Hi,

Also depending on your age you might qualify for some free classes at your local career planning office.

You can also find some good books that are easy to follow and that could teach you all you need to know.

Here in Canada, we can deduct the expenses for classes or purchases that are for our company. If you're in the US, I don't know how it works, but maybe you can do that as well.

Your Virtual Wizard · #6 (**permalink**) 09-12-2008

I get emails from HP on classes they offer which I believe include Powerpoint. You can check their classes link on their site and register for notifications when classes become available. You can start the classes anytime. I used to teach Powerpoint. You can check with your local library and borrow the Peter Norton's series for classroom lessons. That's how I picked up more software skills...by borrowing from the library.

Tess · #7 (**permalink**) 09-12-2008

Hi and welcome!
You've rec'd some exellent starting points here - now you just have to decide where to start

permalink · #8 (**permalink**) 09-12-2008

Thank you to all who replied. I searched the websites, went on Ebay to look at educational dvds and I like the library idea as well.

This is really stupid but how to I post new threads. I just took some pain killers and I can't find how I did it. I have had two major spinal neurosurgeries in the last six months - just three weeks ago for the second - rare disease. I'm overwhelmed with researching.

I was looking thru the threads for books. I was wondering what the consensus is for the very best book to order to start a VA business. I'd like a very comprehensive book.

I have so many questions, so if someone could tell me where I go to start a new thread, I'd appreciate it. I know I can look thru archived threads to answer some questions too.

This is an awesome forum and I thank everyone who is involved.

KathyZ · #9 (**permalink**) 09-12-2008

Hi Belinda,

I would also google both PP and Quicken. You just might find a free tutorial on one or both.

Kathy Z

Office Goddess · #10 (**permalink**) 09-15-2008

I am learning photoshop CS3 ($89) through Longmont Free University. They also have a class on 'starting your own business' ($79) as well as software classes.

leedrozak · #11 (**permalink**) 09-15-2008

http://www.gcflearnfree.org/

is a great site to learn office products for free. They have other topics too but they are basic.

Lee

onlinepas · #12 (**permalink**) 09-16-2008

Hi and welcome

,

For more information regarding free online courses, have a look at the thread "Does anyone know of any free online courses" in the VA Agencies, Education etc. section.

I personally have bought training manuals from a company here in Australia (www.datadiscovery.com.au) as I needed to upgrade my skills when I upgraded my software to 2007. At a cost of about AU$25-30 plus postage they are fairly inexpensive. They are corporate training manuals and cover software programs from introduction to advanced. They are easy to use, and you work at your own pace, no assignments, just practicals. Best of all, you always have them on hand to refer to. If they are not suitable for you perhaps there would be a similar resource available in the US.

Hope this helps.

Deb