I have had a long career as a software engineer and considering to become a VA in a second career. But I happen to be a man. It seems this is a field for women. I just did a search for the word "men" on the forum and I got NO HITS. I couldn't believe it.
Can anyone tell me if I am barking up the wrong tree here or give me an honest answer as to whether I might be able to succeed or compete in this field ? (I know that discrimination by gender would be prohibited and illegal, but I sort of feel "out of place" if you know what I mean.)
First of all, welcome to the Forums. We're glad to have you here.
There are several men who have contributed to this forum as well as a couple of discussions that have occurred about men in the Virtual Assistant industry. I've never seen it discussed that men would have any harder time succeeding as Virtual Assistant than women. It's all about your skills, your presentation and the value you bring to your customer. While the Virtual Assistant industry is about 97% women according to industry surveys, that still leaves a percentage of men who are succeeding in this industry.
Networking in the industry and on this forum will help you in the greatest way if you are just starting. We always welcome the input of all members regardless of gender and often men are especially welcomed specifically because there are not as many and bring a valuable perspective as men in a predominantly female industry.
Please jump right in, read the posts, asks questions and contribute answers!
We're glad you found us! And, Heck Yeah you have a chance. You're not the only Male here and you are just as welcome as anyone . I think you will do just fine as a Virtual Assistant. Here is a very interesting Blog created by one of our members here, I think it will give you some insight on males in the VA field.
Thanks for introducing yourself. I look forward to chatting with you across the boards!
__________________ Kena~
Everyone smiles in the same language
I'd just like to say welcome and that no you are certainly not the only man in this market as you delve further you will come across many more....please don't feel out of place everybody is welcome and everyone's opinion counts.
Welcome TomInDenver!
I also do not know if men have a harder time but I will bet with your software/computer background you will do well as a Virtual Assistant. Best of Luck.
Welcome! I don't think you will have a problem. Depending your skills and experience, you just might have an "edge" over women. After all, there are some men professionals out there still have a hard time dealing with women. Good luck to you!
__________________
Michelle
Mid-Knight Business Solutions
Thanks for all the encouraging responses. I feel a little better now. And Kena, thanks for the blog link. I read that story about the Navy "admin guy." Maybe I'll have similar success.
Tom, I don't see any reason why a guy shouldn't be a VA. In today's world, there really aren't any men's or women's jobs. We are all equal if we have the knowledge and determination. Best of luck to you in your new career choice.
Tomindenver. Hi, let me prove the above confirmations a bit more. I was a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant, and there were several MEN who were very successful in that business. One of them was a member of the million dollar club. Just as the rule women can do anything men can do, vice versa.
Hi Tom, I can only echo what other members have said here - there's nothing to stop you from being a great VA, as long as you have the skills and determination you should be just fine
And as Kimberly mentioned we do have quite a few men on the boards, albeit not nearly as many women... but you're in good company either way.
Best of luck to you in achieving your business goals!
__________________
Startup doesn't have to be intimidating, or expensive!
Register now for Virtual Assistant Jumpstart!
Do men have a chance in this field ?
. I think you will do just fine as a Virtual Assistant. Here is a very interesting Blog created by one of our members here, I think it will give you some insight on males in the VA field. 
Show Printable Version
Email this Page
Linear Mode
