The best advice I can give any newbie is to join a network - not a forum, but a network.
I know sometimes finances can limit your expenses - but it really is true: to make money you have to spend money. It can take up to two years before you are established as a VA.
I recommend joining
http://www.vainsiders.com,
http://www.vadirectory.net and
http://www.ivaa.org.
They all have forums so you can chat with other members, and they all have job boards for RFP's.
If you're really interested in working for another VA, you should make networking your first priority - get to know the other members, join in the conversations (and be genuine about it, don't just do it to get work).
If you specialise, add that to your signature on the forums, show initiative, and don't be afraid to ask.