getting started

[Anonymous]

Hello. I am completely new to this site and to this subject. I have been a stay at home mom for seven years and am desparate to re-enter the working world. But like everyone else out there, I am finding it next to impossible to find a job with hours that work with my free time. I have a nice chunck of time on my hands now that my kids are in school longer, but finding a job with those specific hours is easier said than done.

The VA field sounds like a great option and I feel like as if I do have the appropriate skills, but I am SO confused as to how to get started. When you look on line, there is an overwhelming amount of information! I am finding a lot of places out there that promise to get you jobs if you register or pay them, or are telling you that you need to spend money on courses to get certified. So, my big question is do I need to spend money on these things to get started?? If not, what is my starting point?? Any advice would be so greatly appreciated. Thanks!!


Debby

[Mel]

Hey Debby,

First off, if you want to start your own business then there will be some expenses such as business license, website, advertising, equipment and supplies, etc.

If you just want to work from home then DO NOT PAY for information or job leads. There are a few legitimate places that you could pay to get information but it's just safer if you stick to the no pay rule.

Lori just wrote an article on starting a VA biz that is very informative, I'll see if I can find the link for you.

If you want to look for a wah job then we can give you some information on that too.

I'll try to find that link and get back to you.

[Mel]

Here you go, her October newsletter talks about starting a VA biz... http://www.freelancemom.com/oct05.htm

[Debbi]

Absolutely do not pay for job leads. Never! They're nearly all scams. I'd check out some of Lori's articles on this site - they are awesome.

Best,
Debbi

[momathome]

Yes, Lori has an awesome site here. (How does she find the time?!?!?!)

Let me reiterate from the previous post: NEVER pay for job leads.

Also, VA certificate programs can be great tools, but don't let any site trick you into thinking that you cannot be a VA without a certificate! If you do decide to enroll in a program, do your research and choose one that will compliment your VA career best (and most conveniently for you!).

:razz: