Hard Truths & Hot Tips: What Every New VA Needs to Hear

Starting a VA business isn’t just about offering admin support – it’s about building something that serves your life, your goals, and your clients powerfully.

I’ve been running businesses since the mid-90s and launched my own Virtual Assistant business in 2008. It goes without saying that I'm extremely passionate about the opportunity this amazing industry delivers, and since then - and together with the team at VA Institute - we’ve been incredibly honoured to support thousands of women to step into their own version of success.

It's so important to me that new VAs get started the RIGHT way... and with so much misinformation out there, it can be incredibly confusing. So, if you’re just starting out (or even if you’ve been at it a little while), here are 8 of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the past 25 years:

1. Get Clear on Your Value and USP

   If you don’t deeply understand what you offer and why it matters, you’ll struggle to attract aligned clients, much less have them understand why they should engage your services... This is absolutely foundational.

   
   

2. Stick to Your Zone of Genius

   You don’t have to offer every service that you THINK you should... or that other VAs provide. In fact, you shouldn’t. If you want to be confident, happy and successful, start with what you’re good at – and build from there. There will be plenty of time to 'niche' in the future if you do decide to go that way!

   
   

3. Price with Intention

   Charge based on the outcomes you deliver, not what you think the hourly norm is... or what others charge. Undervaluing your services undermines the entire industry (and it's a terrible way to get started).

   
   

4. Build Strong Foundations

   Your systems, documentation, boundaries and mindset need to be rock-solid from the outset. Without a solid plan that comes from understanding your 'why', 'what', and 'how', business growth becomes messy and pretty much unsustainable.

   
   

5. Know Who You’re Talking To

   Clarity around your ideal client transforms everything – from your marketing to your confidence in sales conversations. Spend time figuring out who you're targeting, and then get out there and find them!

   
   

6. Never Underestimate the Power of Word-of-Mouth

   This industry thrives on relationships. Show up. Speak up. Network. Conversations build credibility and connection... and more often that not, they can even deliver your first client.

   
   

7. Don’t Go It Alone

   There’s an entire community here for you. Lean in. Ask for help. Surround yourself with your tribe - like-minded people who, together, lift each other higher.

   
   

8. Think Like a Business Owner

   This isn’t a side hustle or a job replacement. It’s a business – and you need to treat it like one if you want it to thrive.

This industry has given me the chance to design a life I love – with flexibility, purpose, and impact. And it can do the same for you.

Want support getting started?

At VA Institute, we are here to help you build your business the right way – with clarity, confidence and community.