Information on becoming a virtual assitant?

I have worked as the billing manager and personal assitant for a private psychotherpy practice for the past 5 years. I am interested in taking on other clients and, after some research, feel that offering services as a virtual assistant (with some limited on site services concerning orginizational needs) is something that similar providers could use. I am interested in any websites or articles that discuss establishing such a business, as well as any hints or suggestions from others already working as VA's. Thanks so much.

Virtual assistant is one of the best home-based businesses right now, and many businesses and individuals alike are warming up to the idea and need for virtual assistants.

Here are some resources I suggest to help you learn more about becoming a virtual assistant

Starting a Virtual Assistant Business http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/0,46...
How to Start Your Own Virtual Assistant Business http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol40/virtua...
Tips on Winning a Virtual Assistant Position http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol132/virtu...
Start your own virtual assistant business http://www.usatoday.com/money/smallbusin...

However, the market is relatively new. As virtual assistant, a key part of your marketing strategy will be educating potential clients how your service can help them.

As such, networking and word of mouth are extremely effective strategies in marketing a VA business. I interviewed a VA and she said that one of the best ways for her to get clients is by attending local networking events. She is very active in the organizations that she participates in, and that has helped her raise her profile in the community and for potential clients to know what she is doing. She also networks online in forums and other online communities. You can read her story here http://www.womenhomebusiness.com/startup...

You can also hook up with other VAs; they may be able to give you some contracts and assignments. Here are some associations and networking groups that you may consider joining

International Virtual Assistants Association http://www.ivaa.org/
International Association of Virtual Office Assistants http://www.iavoa.com/
Alliance for Virtual Businesses http://www.allianceforvirtualbiz.com/
International Association of Administrative Professionals http://www.iaap-hq.org/
Virtual Assistant Networking Forum (VANF) http://www.vanetworking.com/
Virtual Business Group http://www.virtualbizgroup.com/
Virtual-Professionals.com http://www.virtual-professionals.com/

For in-depth information about becoming a VA, I suggest you read any of the following books http://www.powerhomebiz.com/bookstore/va...

- Virtual Assistant, The Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA (Author: Diana Ennen)
- The 2-Second Commute: Join the Exploding Ranks of Freelance Virtual Assistants (Author: Christine Durst)
- Up Close & Virtual: A Practical Guide to Starting Your Own Virtual Assistant Business, Second Edition (Author: Diana Ennen, Kelly Poelker)
- The Virtual Assistant's Guide to Marketing (Author: Michelle Jamison)

I've been a full time virtual assistant for 4 years now (watch your spelling by the way). This site is a great resource site with so much information especially for prospective virtual assistants. The industry is not that new, but in some countries it's taking longer to catch on.

Virtual Assisting is an excellent home based job right now.

Do not pay to join a site that promises to certify you as a PA or says they will get jobs for you. These are normally scams.
The only pay site I would recommend at least looking into is Elance It is a large site and is a good option to getting clients fast. http://www.elance.com/home?rid=15BO8
You already have a good background to begin networking with make a list of anyone who you can call on to assist you in case they have a larger expertise in an area (such as web design, or research, or graphic design).
Get a website that looks professional if you are providing professional services you need to look professional, right?
This is my website it is in progress but I hope it will give you an idea of what all a Virtual PA can do along with what it takes to become one.
http://provassist.com

Good Luck in your ventures!