Is Virtual Assistance for You? A Stay-at-Home Mom’s Guide to Becoming a VA
Imagine earning in dollars while staying at home with your kids, working on your own schedule, and avoiding hours of traffic. Sounds like a dream, right?
For many Filipina Stay-at-Home Moms (SAHMs) and Work-at-Home Moms (WAHMs), this dream is becoming a reality through Virtual Assistance (VA). The VA industry has opened doors for countless moms who want to contribute financially to their families while still being present at home.
But before you jump in, it’s important to ask: Is becoming a VA right for you? Let’s explore what it means to be a VA, the advantages, the challenges, and whether this career fits your lifestyle.
What is a Virtual Assistant (VA)?
A Virtual Assistant (VA) is someone who provides administrative, creative, technical, or specialized support to businesses and entrepreneurs—all while working remotely. Instead of reporting to an office, VAs work online, helping clients with tasks like:
✔️ Administrative support – Email management, scheduling, data entry
✔️ Social media management – Creating content, scheduling posts, engagement
✔️ Customer service – Responding to inquiries, handling complaints
✔️ E-commerce support – Product listing, order processing, inventory management
✔️ Graphic design & content creation – Creating marketing materials, editing videos
✔️ Bookkeeping & finance tasks – Tracking expenses, invoicing
✔️ Website management – Updating content, basic troubleshooting
VAs can either work as freelancers, set their own rates, and find their own clients, or they can be hired by VA agencies that connect them to businesses in need of their services.
Why Many SAHMs & WAHMs Love Being a VA
The VA industry is booming—and for good reason. Here’s why more and more moms are embracing this career path:
Work from Home & Stay with Your Family
No more long commutes! As a VA, you can work from the comfort of your home, giving you more time for your kids, husband, and household duties.
Earn in Dollars (Higher Pay than Local Jobs)
Many VAs work with international clients, earning in USD, AUD, or GBP. Even as a beginner, you can start with $4–$8 per hour, and as you gain experience, you can charge $10–$25 per hour or more—far higher than many office-based jobs in the Philippines.
Flexible Working Hours
Unlike traditional jobs, being a VA gives you control over your schedule. You can choose to work part-time or full-time, allowing you to balance work and family life.
No Expensive Transportation or Office Attire
You don’t have to spend on daily transportation, office clothes, or eating out. More savings for your family!
No Degree Required – Just Skills & Willingness to Learn
Many successful VAs don’t have college degrees—they just have the right skills, training, and determination. Clients care more about your ability to do the job rather than your diploma.
But… It’s Not Always Easy (The Challenges of Being a VA)
While being a VA has a lot of perks, it also comes with challenges. Here are some realities you need to consider:
❌ Unstable Income at First
Unlike a traditional job with a fixed monthly salary, VA work depends on clients. If you don’t have regular clients yet, your income may not be stable in the beginning.
Solution: Start by working with one or two clients and gradually build your reputation. Consider joining VA training programs to boost your skills and marketability.
❌ High Competition
Many Filipinos are entering the VA industry, which means landing your first client can be tough.
Solution: Stand out by specializing in high-demand skills like social media management, content writing, bookkeeping, or automation. Clients are willing to pay more for skilled VAs!
❌ Time Zones & Client Expectations
If your client is from the US, you may need to adjust to night shifts. Some clients expect fast turnaround times and can be demanding.
Solution: Set clear expectations with your client about your work hours and boundaries. Look for clients in time zones that match your availability.
❌ Self-Discipline & Time Management
Since no one supervises you, you must manage your time wisely to avoid distractions at home.
Solution: Create a dedicated workspace, set a daily schedule, and use productivity tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to stay on track.
Is VA for You? Ask Yourself These Questions
Before diving in, reflect on these questions:
✔️ Do I have basic computer skills (email, Google Drive, Excel)?
✔️ Am I willing to learn new skills like social media management or bookkeeping?
✔️ Can I work independently without a boss monitoring me?
✔️ Am I comfortable communicating in English (most clients are foreign)?
✔️ Can I manage my time effectively between work and family?
✔️ Do I have a laptop/PC and stable internet?
If you answered YES to most of these, VA work could be a great fit for you! 🎉
How to Get Started as a VA
1️⃣ Learn the Basics. Start by researching VA tasks and in-demand skills.
2️⃣ Choose a Specialization. Niching down (e.g., Social Media VA, E-commerce VA) helps you stand out.
3️⃣ Join Online VA Training Programs. Get certified in VA skills to boost your confidence and credibility.
4️⃣ Build Your Portfolio. Create sample works to show potential clients.
5️⃣ Apply on VA Platforms. Start looking for clients on Upwork, OnlineJobsPH, Fiverr, or direct outreach.
Starting a VA career can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone! Join FHMoms, the largest and most supportive community of Filipino moms looking to succeed in freelancing and virtual assistance.
🌟 Why Join FHMoms?
✅ Get step-by-step VA training from industry experts
✅ Learn high-income skills to attract premium clients
✅ Be part of a supportive community of fellow SAHMs & WAHMs
✅ Access exclusive job opportunities and coaching
💡 Your dream of working from home and earning in dollars is possible! Take the first step with FHMoms and start building your VA career today.
Final Thoughts: Is VA for You?
Becoming a VA is a life-changing opportunity for Filipina moms who want financial independence without sacrificing family time. It may take hard work, learning, and patience, but the rewards—flexibility, higher pay, and work-life balance—are worth it.
Are you ready to take control of your time, income, and future? Start your VA journey today! 🚀
