The Ultimate Beginner’s Checklist for New Virtual Assistants

When I first started as a VA, I remember spending hours on Google and YouTube trying to piece everything together. One post would tell me I needed a full-blown website, another said I couldn’t start without a niche, and then someone else swore I needed to be on every single platform to find clients. It was overwhelming and left me spinning my wheels.

If you’re feeling the same way, take a deep breath — you don’t need to do all the things to get started. What you really need is a simple, clear plan that helps you focus on the essentials. That’s exactly what this checklist is here for. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to launch your VA business with confidence.

Choose Your Services

The first step is deciding what you actually want to offer as a VA. Start with 3–5 services you’re already good at or willing to learn. These could be things like:

• Email management

• Social media scheduling

• Canva graphics

• Calendar management

• Blog formatting

• Basic customer support

Don’t worry about choosing your “forever” niche just yet. The goal is to start with what feels comfortable so you can get your first client and build from there.

Set Up Your Business Basics

You don’t need to file an LLC or have a fancy website before landing clients. Keep it simple in the beginning:

• Pick a business name (your own name works just fine!)

• Create a professional email address

• Set up a PayPal or Stripe account for payments

• Optional: design a quick logo in Canva

The goal here is to have a professional foundation, not perfection.

Build a Simple Portfolio

Even if you don’t have client work yet, you can still create a portfolio. Think of it as a highlight reel showing what you could do for someone.

• Put together 3–5 examples (mock Instagram posts, email templates, sample graphics, etc.)

• Save them in a Google Drive folder or create a one-page Canva PDF

• Bonus: add a short bio and a list of your services

This doesn’t need to be complicated. Clients mainly want to see that you’re capable and reliable.

Set Your Rates with Confidence

One of the trickiest parts for new VAs is deciding what to charge. Many start too low out of fear, but remember — you’re running a business, not volunteering your time.

• A common starting point: $20–30/hour

• Or offer packages (ex: $300 for 10 hours a month)

• Be open to adjusting as you gain experience

The key is to pick a number and start. You’ll refine your pricing as you grow.

Get Visible Online

Clients can’t hire you if they don’t know you exist. That’s why it’s important to have at least one place online where people can see who you are and what you offer.

• Create a LinkedIn profile (perfect for connecting with business owners)

• Start an Instagram or TikTok where you share your VA journey and helpful tips

• Post consistently, even if it’s once or twice a week

Remember, your first clients might come from people already in your circle. Being visible makes it easy for them to refer you.

Start Pitching Clients

Here’s where the magic happens: you can’t just wait for clients to find you. Be proactive!

• Send personalized emails to small businesses or entrepreneurs

• Join Facebook groups and look for people posting VA opportunities

• Reach out on LinkedIn with a friendly introduction

Don’t overthink this step. Your first client often comes from simply showing up and asking.

Final Thoughts

Starting your VA business doesn’t have to be complicated. With this checklist, you’ve got the exact steps to go from “thinking about it” to actually landing your first client.

But if you’re ready for a proven roadmap that takes you step by step — from setting up your foundations to landing your first client in 30 days or less — I created something just for you.

👉 Grab the VA Kickstart Guide and get everything you need to launch your VA business with confidence. It’s the guide I wish I had when I started, and it will save you time, stress, and guesswork.