How do I become a Virtual Assistant?

Does anyone know how I could get started as a Virtual Assistant? I'm interested in starting off slow, and am in no rush to do this, but I would love to get started in this career path so by the time I have children (in about 2-3 years) I can possible work from home and do what I'm great at.

I excel at almost all and any administrative tasks, and have been in the field for almost 7 years. I support a line of managers currently and do almost every type of project and admin task you could think of, so I have a lot of experience.

Basically, I would like to know if there is a way to get on board with this type of job and not have to pay $3K for some 'certificate' since I already have the experience to back it up.

Ideas/Feedback/advice? Thanks!

I am also in the same field, just starting out also. I suggest just pick a couple of the administrative tasks you do really well and start with that., you can always add more services as your business grows. If your business does not have the necessary financial means at the moment, you can always get certified when it does at a later time. I did not get certified either since I do have 10 yrs. admin. experience myself.

Get yourself a website, even if it's just a simple one, get some business cards and NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK!! Maybe send some information to some local offices or some non-profit organizations, churches or you can also join your local chamber of commerce. I also suggest you get this book, Virtual Assistant the Series, by Dianna Ennen and Kelly Poelker. This book has helped me a lot in putting this business together step by step, gives you great information on what you are going to need and ideas on what services Virtual Assistants are offering.

I hope this helps, good luck.