There are a wealth of options for virtual assistants who are looking to move into remote employment. Finding a suitable niche is easier than you think.
Audit your skills
When you decide to become a virtual assistant, one of the first things you’ll need to do is narrow down exactly what you can offer. If at first it seems overwhelming, don’t fret— everyone has something they’re good at. Everyone has some natural talent, experience, or knowledge, whether you’re aware of it or not.
Brainstorm
It’s helpful to just brainstorm early on. Don’y worry too hard about it— just throw out things you’re good at, have experience at, or most importantly what you like to do. Once you have a list of skills and desires, cross reference them with other sectors and see how you can apply them.
Just because you choose a niche doesn’t mean the services you provide are set in stone. There are several services even within niche industries that you can offer.
Try to find something you like but that isn’t so saturated that you will be buried under all of the competition.
Analyze your screen time. Where do you focus your attention? Can you develop this interest into a niche? Some of the benefits of establishing your business around a niche is that you’ll be interested in it, and the more you’re interested in it the more focus you’ll have and the better you’ll perform. You’ll also likely be a specialist, since you’ll drill down into the specifics, as opposed to the overall big picture.
Take note of what you don’t want to do
Sometimes it’s easier to define what you don’t want to do. Bear in mind that it is all a process, and don’t feel you need to lock yourself too tightly into any one niche. One of the best things about being a virtual assistant is the freedom it grants you—don’t let your choices back you into a corner. Give yourself the grace and patience to explore your options.
Research
If you are still having a hard time choosing a niche, check out our list of 100 niches that are highly marketable right now.
Matthew Ogden is a Minneapolis-based copywriter and content writer and editor. He’s written for national retailers and lobster roll companies alike. When not writing he can be found nose deep in a book, writing and performing music, or nerding out about guitar tone.