Virtual assistance (VA) is one of the most sought-after online jobs these days.
Many traditional office employees are willing to leave their jobs for a chance to work remotely, and being a virtual assistant is often the gateway to this.
However, like any other job, being a virtual assistant comes with its fair share of challenges.
So, here’s what you can do to overcome some of the most common challenges as a rookie virtual assistant.
Time Differences
Virtual assistants often work with international clients who are not in the same time zone.
For instance, Filipino VAs working with Australian clients won’t need much of an adjustment, compared to US clients who work in the opposite time zone.
It’s best to slowly prep your body to work the night shift, so you can ease the transition and lessen its adverse effects.
Connectivity Issues
A reliable Internet connection is a remote worker’s lifeblood as it allows them to work virtually anywhere.
However, you can still encounter issues with your internet service providers (ISPs) in the Philippines.
Thus, it’s better to have a backup WiFi connection (just in case). Or, you can purchase a pocket WiFi device to stay connected wherever you are.
Power interruptions can also happen, so better to invest in power stations (or even generators) to minimize their impact.
Communication and Collaboration Difficulties
Corresponding with international clients often results in issues due to timezone differences, unstable Internet connection, or even cultural and language barriers.
Such situations can hamper a VA’s productivity, especially when things need to get done quickly.
Thus, learn to establish expectations early on and ask any questions as needed for straightforward communication.
Don’t hesitate to speak your mind when needed (especially to clarify confusion early on), ensuring a smooth working relationship with your client.
Mismatched Expectations
Being a virtual assistant can involve less hand-holding from your clients because you won’t be working in close proximity.
Still, there can be instances where your client might end up assigning tasks that weren’t part of your original agreement.
The additional workload can be stressful—most especially if you’re assigned a task outside your current skill set.
If this happens all too frequently, it’s best to talk with your client and clarify your new tasks (and even request additional compensation, if needed).
Again, establishing clear expectations and boundaries from the beginning can also help prevent these instances from happening.
Difficulty Asking for Help
In connection with the previous point, some VAs hesitate to ask questions.
They might have had a bad experience with previous clients, or it could be a cultural thing where they want to “save face” rather than admit to being a little lost.
Nip this mindset as early as now.
You should always clarify if you’re in doubt about how to proceed.
Many clients would be happy to point you in the right direction. Plus, it’s better for everyone if you get things right from the start.
Lack of Job Stability
Unfortunately, some virtual assistant jobs are not for the long term.
You can have a job one day and none the next, making you repeat the whole process of looking for and landing a client all over again.
Thus, many veteran VAs advise juggling multiple clients at the same time.
This way, your income isn’t too affected should one client choose to terminate their contract with you.
However, to save yourself from such troubles, you can also sign up with a staffing agency, like Remote Staff.
They will be the ones to match you with a client that fits your work style.
Further, should your client go MIA, Remote Staff will be the one to find a replacement, so you’ll always have a job.
Repetitive Routines
While remote work has many perks, it also has its downsides, such as having a pretty repetitive day.
Staying at home all the time can also cause remote workers like you to feel isolated.
Thus, change up your routine once in a while.
Make an effort to hang out with your friends or go out of the house and socialize with new people when you’re not working.
You can also create an after-work routine, just to keep things interesting.
Overcoming the Challenges of Being a Rookie Virtual Assistant
VAs live pretty fast-paced lives.
They need to be quick on their feet and be mostly self-sufficient, which can easily become overwhelming for a rookie virtual assistant.
Finding the right footing can take time, but it can feel so fulfilling when you finally do.
So, are you thinking about becoming a virtual assistant? If you’re ready to work online, head on to Remote Staff’s job listings. It’s always updated and has roles in several industries.
Remote Staff has also been around for 16 years (and counting)! The company has a one-month salary guarantee, so you’ll receive payment should your client go MIA.
Want to start your remote working career? Register with us today!
