How to Find Virtual Assistant Employment Opportunities

The demand for virtual assistant employment has skyrocketed in recent years, as more businesses shift toward remote work and digital operations. Whether it's hiring a virtual assistant for customer service or for managing calendars, emails, and spreadsheets, VAs now play a crucial role in supporting businesses of all sizes. If you're looking to enter this flexible and rewarding field, knowing where and how to look is half the battle.

Understand What Businesses Need

Before you start applying, it’s essential to know what employers are looking for. Most virtual assistant roles require skills like communication, time management, data entry, and basic tech literacy. Some small companies even look for data entry solutions for small business, which is a common task VAs can handle efficiently. Some roles may also require knowledge of tools such as Trello, Slack, Google Workspace, Canva, or CRM platforms.

If you can offer specialized services—like social media management, content creation, bookkeeping, or graphic design—you’ll have a competitive edge. Being clear about your niche will make job hunting more efficient and improve your chances of getting hired.

Build a Strong Online Presence

When it comes to virtual assistant employment, your online presence is your digital resume. Here are some ways to make yourself stand out:

• Create a LinkedIn profile 

  
  

that clearly states you’re available for virtual assistant work. Highlight your skills, tools you use, and previous remote work experience.

• Set up a professional email address 

  
  

and be responsive. Clients often value quick and clear communication.

• Create a basic portfolio website or linktree with your resume 

  
  

service list, and testimonials (if you have them). Free platforms like Wix, Canva, or Carrd can get you started.

You can even include a short section on our mission and values to help potential clients connect with your working style and approach.

Even if you're just starting, you can showcase personal projects or mock-up tasks to demonstrate your skills.

Start with Freelance Marketplaces

One of the quickest ways to find virtual assistant employment opportunities is through freelance platforms. These websites allow you to create a profile, bid on jobs, and build your reputation:

• Upwork 

  
  

 Highly competitive but great for long-term clients.

• OnlineJobs.ph 

  
  

Especially popular for Filipino VAs and often offers full-time remote roles.

• Fiverr 

  
  

Lets you create service-based packages.

• Freelancer 

  
  

Good for short-term and trial gigs.

• PeoplePerHour 

  
  

Useful for hourly and project-based jobs.

Pro tip: Customize every application. Don’t just copy and paste generic responses—address the client’s needs directly to stand out.

Tap Into Social Media Groups

Facebook and LinkedIn are home to countless virtual assistant groups and communities. These groups are goldmines for job leads, tips, and even client referrals. Search for groups using terms like "virtual assistant jobs," "freelance VA," or "remote admin support." Engage with the community, answer questions, and be active—it builds trust and visibility.

Here are a few examples:

• Facebook Groups 

  
  

like “Virtual Assistant Savvies” or “Remote Jobs for Virtual Assistants”

• LinkedIn Groups 

  
  

like “Virtual Assistant Network” or “Remote Work Professionals”

Sometimes, job postings come directly from business owners in these groups, giving you a chance to land gigs without platform fees.

Consider Virtual Assistant Agencies

If you're unsure about freelancing solo, joining a VA agency might be a good starting point. These companies match you with clients and often provide training and support.

Some reputable agencies include:

• Belay

• Boldly

• Time Etc

• Virtalent

• MyOutDesk

  
  

Working with an agency gives you more structure and consistent work, though they may take a cut of your earnings.

Cold Outreach Works, Too

Don’t underestimate the power of reaching out directly to businesses. Local companies, coaches, bloggers, and solo entrepreneurs often need help but haven’t posted a job yet. Many simply don’t realize they need to hire a general virtual assistant until someone shows them the benefits. Send a short and personalized email offering your services, highlight your strengths, and explain how you can make their life easier.

It helps to focus on a niche—like real estate, wellness coaches, or e-commerce stores—and tailor your message to that industry.

Example email intro:

Hi [Name], I noticed you run a growing [industry] business and wanted to offer support with tasks like email handling, customer service, or social media. I specialize in helping [type of business] free up time so they can focus on growth. Would you be open to a quick call to explore if this could help?

Keep Improving Your Skills

The virtual assistant employment space is competitive, so it’s important to keep learning. Free and low-cost courses on platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, or YouTube can help you sharpen your skills.

Also, consider joining paid communities or mentorship groups for VAs. These groups often share hidden job leads and offer feedback to help you improve.

Conclusion

Breaking into virtual assistant employment takes time and persistence. Whether you’re applying through freelance platforms, agencies, or reaching out directly to businesses, consistency is the real key. Be proactive in your search, follow up politely, and don’t get discouraged by slow weeks.

With the right mindset, skills, and strategies, you’ll find virtual assistant opportunities that fit your lifestyle and career goals. Keep showing up, keep learning, and soon enough, you’ll land the roles that are right for you.