3 Simple Steps to Identify and Build Transferable Skills as a New Virtual Assistant
Breaking into the virtual assistant world doesn’t mean starting from scratch. In fact, you probably already have a goldmine of skills that translate perfectly into VA work—you just need to recognize them! Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, fresh out of a corporate job, or making a career switch, your experience is more valuable than you think.
So, let’s uncover those hidden superpowers and build on them so you can confidently marketyourself as a rockstar VA!
Step 1: Identify Your Transferable Skills
If You’ve Been a Stay-at-Home Parent
Managing a household is basically CEO-level experience in disguise. Think about it:
Time management? You’ve been juggling school drop-offs, meal planning, and bedtime routines like a pro.
Customer service? Negotiating with toddlers or handling school meetings teaches patience and communication like nothing else.
Problem-solving? Ever handled a last-minute science project meltdown? Enough said.
Budgeting? Keeping a family’s finances in check is no different from handling client invoices and expenses.
If You’re Coming from a Corporate Job
Corporate life arms you with skills that makeyou VA-ready on day one.
Project management? You’ve coordinated deadlines, managed teams, and juggled priorities.
Administrative tasks? Scheduling meetings, handling emails, and data entry are VA staples.
Customer/client relations? If you’ve ever answered phones, handled support tickets, or managed accounts, you’ve got this.
Software proficiency? You’ve likely used CRMs, spreadsheets, or communication tools—clients need that expertise!
Step 2: Build & Strengthen Your VA Skills
Regardless of your current skills, leveling up is key. Here’s how to sharpen your skills and fill any gaps:
Take an Online Course – Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Found’s VA membership offer training in admin tasks, social media management, and more.
Practice with Free Tools – Get comfortable with platforms like Asana, Trello, Slack, and Canva by using them in your daily life.
Offer Services for Testimonials – Work with a small business owner or entrepreneur in exchange for feedback and experience.
Join a VA Community – Surround yourself with other VAs, ask questions, and learnfrom those already thriving. The Found Member’s Lounge is a great place to seek advice and learn some new tricks!
Step 3: Market Yourself with Confidence
Now that you’ve identified and built your skills, it’s time to own it.
Update your LinkedIn and resume to highlight your most relevant experience.
Create a simple portfolio showcasing your skills (even if it’s just sample work!).
Be bold—don’t downplay your experience. Everything you’ve done before has prepared you for this.
