I started my virtual assistant journey with nothing but a desktop lovingly assembled by my husband, an internet plan, and a whole lot of prayer. I didn’t have a course, a coach, or a clue—but I had grit, and that was enough to get going.

Today, things look very different. The VA world is bigger, louder, and more competitive than ever. Coaches abound, workshops everywhere. But it’s also full of opportunity—especially for women who want to build real businesses from home while raising families, pursuing passions, and living life on their terms.

If I were starting again in 2025, here’s exactly what I’d do. This is the VA Starter Kit I wish someone had handed me back then. This is not in any way comprehensive, but this will definitely get you started.

Start With What You Know

Don’t overthink your first service. You don’t need 10 skills to get started—you need one you’re already good at.

Are you organized? Offer calendar and inbox management.

Do you love writing? Try blog editing or content creation.

A Canva queen? Social media graphics are always in demand.

Start with what’s in your hands. You’ll level up as you go.

Choose One Platform to Show Up On

Forget the pressure to be everywhere. Pick one platform and show up consistently. Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook—choose where your dream clients hang out and be there. 

Post valuable tips. Share behind-the-scenes. Let people see the heart behind the hustle.

Back when I was starting, there was no Facebook, no Instagram. So I built a website on WordPress, and posted my services on Craigslist. 

Free Tools You Can Use From Day One

You don’t need a full tech stack or paid tools at the beginning. Here’s what I recommend:

• Canva (design anything)
  
• Google Workspace (email, docs, sheets)
  
• Clockify (track time)
  
• Asana or Trello (project/task management)
  
• Zoom (client calls)
  

Create Your “Starter Pack”

Before pitching, prep these four things:

• A simple services list (What can you offer right now?)
  
• A short, clear bio (Who are you and how do you help?)
  
• A sample portfolio or mock-up (Optional but helpful!)
  
• Your rates—or at least a range
  

Don’t worry if it’s not perfect. What matters is clarity.

Where to Find Your First Clients

Everyone wants to know the secret sauce—spoiler: it’s relationships.

Here’s where to look:

• Friends of friends (post on your personal FB!)
  
• Entrepreneurs in your niche
  
• VA job boards and communities
  
• Local small businesses needing support
  

Ask, connect, offer to help. Your first “yes” will likely come from someone already in your world.

A Few Things I Wish I Knew Sooner

• Boundaries matter. Your home is your office—but it’s also your home.
  
• Raise your rates before you think you’re ready.
  
• Not every client is your client—and that’s okay.
  
• Burnout can sneak in through the back door if you don’t protect your peace.
  
• You’re allowed to grow slow and still succeed.
  

You’re Building More Than a Business

You’re building freedom. Confidence. Legacy. You’re showing your kids what’s possible. You’re creating space for joy.

And if you ever feel like you’re not ready, remember:

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start.

Let this be your permission slip to begin.

Whether you’re fresh out of a corporate job, deep in diapers, or starting again after a long pause—there is room for you in this industry.

You can do this.

And I’ll be right here, cheering you on.

Love,

Marge
The Happy WAHM