In general, a high school diploma and some office training are the minimum requirements for becoming a virtual office assistant. For someone who wants to work as a virtual office assistant, there are community college and vocational school programs as well as online educational options, and many people with traditional business or management degrees can work as virtual office assistants. Additional training and, in many cases, certification can be pursued to specialize or advance to a legal or medical position. If you are self-employed, you may have additional needs, such as purchasing office equipment.
A virtual office assistant performs essentially the same duties as a traditional office assistant, with the exception that he or she works as a freelancer from home. A virtual office has several advantages over a traditional office setting in many cases. Telecommuting, for example, is often more convenient for employees and can save money for both parties.
Administrative tasks such as basic data entry and file and record maintenance are typical office assistant responsibilities. Mailing, emailing, and faxing documents, as well as writing business letters and reports, are all common activities. Office assistants are frequently in charge of keeping track of budget information as well as making appointments and travel arrangements for their bosses. A virtual assistant can also specialize in a particular field — for example, as a virtual author’s assistant in publishing; others are hired specifically for legal or medical transcription.
To become a virtual office assistant, one can learn secretarial skills in high school and then enroll in a one- to two-year office administration program at a vocational-technical school or community college. Community colleges are increasingly offering programs tailored to virtual office assistants. Computer technology and website design are two examples of courses, as are traditional skills like transcription and bookkeeping.
Someone who wants to become a virtual office assistant can complete his or her entire course of study online instead of attending a local school. A variety of organizations provide coaching and training programs at various prices. Although certification is not required to work as a virtual office assistant, the International Virtual Assistants Association offers certification (IVAA). Certified Virtual Assistant, Ethics Checked Virtual Assistant, and Real Estate Virtual Assistant are some of the titles available. A number of legal secretary certification programs are also available.
Good verbal and written communication, as well as knowledge of business etiquette, are some of the basic skills needed to work as a virtual office assistant. Effective typing skills, as well as attention to detail and the ability to multitask, are often required for many office jobs. Furthermore, in order to set up a home office, a freelancer usually requires specific equipment. He or she usually uses a computer, printer, phone, and fax machine, at the very least.