VA Essentials Ebook
Get your most frequently asked questions, answered in our free Ebook!
VA Essentials Ebook
Get your most frequently asked questions – answered!
How to become a Virtual Assistant?
Ultimately, Amanda is a Business Coach who specialises in supporting Virtual Assistants or those who want to join the industry.
Therefore, if you’re wondering “How to become a Virtual Assistant?” or if you wanting to have any of the following opportunities in your life:
- Be your own boss – first and foremost you are a Business Owner, you happen to sell admin support services.
- Greater flexibility – work and family life in alignment.
- Run a successful business.
- A portable career – the ability to work whenever and wherever you want.
- Be a military spouse who wants to accompany military personnel on frequent assignment changes without having to give up their career.
- To have a wide ranging role – supporting multiple clients meaning that every day is different.
- To always be learning something new – business doesn’t stand still.
- Having the ability to take control of your own life and your career.
On this site, you will find the answers to the exam question “How to become a Virtual Assistant” and you have, the support you need to create your own awesome and authentic VA business.
What you get if you train with Amanda?
You see, you already have the skills and experience – I coach, mentor and train you to set up a VA Business – I effectively give you the tools you need to become an “Awesome VA” – a VA who is authentic and empowered. But if you want to know more – here are just some of the highlights of working with me:
VACT graduates added an extra £12,798 onto their turnover, compared to VAs without any training. Source: UK Virtual Assistant Survey v6 – for more information please visit: www.societyofvirtualassistants.co.uk
Study at your own pace all of the Virtual Assistant training courses can be delivered face to face and supported by online technology (but with a personal slant)
UK-based VA training courses learn how to set up a successful VA business
Receive expert guidance training created by VA’s for VA’s
Get support and inspiration from other great VA’s – my communities support each other in their set up.
You can complete your training, get set up and launch whilst you are still working!
What you also get when working with me is something you don’t find with any other VA Training Provider in the UK and that’s the personal touch. The program and the support you receive gets personalised to each person undertaking the training.
There are a lot of VA training and coaching courses out there, with so many of them being impersonal and fully automated courses. You get sent a vast array of information and left to do with it what you can (sometimes nothing). The information is cribbed from snippets they have picked up here and there, then cobbled together from what they learnt on their training courses, perhaps prepping you on the general tasks and skills that are required to become a VA. Your questions go unanswered, you feel unsupported and you are left floundering. Not good!
Well when you work with me – it’s the complete opposite, I am here with you inspiring, challenging you and supporting you to be an “Awesome” VA Business Owner.
VA Mastery Course
The DIY VA Mastery Course covers everything from business strategy, and tools and technology, to client management and marketing, to financial planning and working with associates. PLUS all the content is broken down and delivered in 6 easy to digest modules.
One to One Coaching
Build your VA business with the support of a Coach / Mentor who will help you to avoid the costly mistakes and, in a non-judgemental way, boost your confidence levels to achieve what you thought would be impossible.
VA Help Desk Group Programme
The VA Help Desk is a group coaching program, it offers a sense of community that’s not found when it’s just you and a Mentor working one on one. An affordable way of working with me on a regular basis.
VA Training Academy®
The VA Training Academy® offers a range of business development workshops on crucial aspects of working as a Virtual Assistant. Mini Courses, Webinars, Work Books, PDFs and Guides.
VA Mastermind
The VA Mastermind (also known as a peer advisory board), in this group – the agenda belongs to the group, and each person’s participation is key. There is a synergy of energy, commitment, and excitement that participants bring to the VA Mastermind Group.
Praise for our Training Courses and Mentoring
I’ve recently graduated from the VA Mastery course after I decided to set up my own VA business, and can highly recommend working with Amanda. I came across her 3 years ago when I was in the early stages of launching my business, and she has held my hand and guided me through setting up, forming, and running Cotswold Colleague. Amanda is very personable, professional, generous with her knowledge and gives a huge amount of support when things are tough and a no-nonsense kick when you need to get moving. I’m looking forward to her on-going mentoring and guidance, she’s awesome!
Nicki Watson
Amanda M attended a Goal Setting Webinar with me and this is how she described me after the call "She actually seems up my street likes fluffy Woo Woo but with balls!"
Amanda Michaelin
I've been fortunate enough to benefit from Amandas support, help and guidance in several ways. Not only did I finish the fantastic VACT Mastery Course under Amanda, with some great and constructive feedback from her along the way, but also through the Facebook groups she runs which are inclusive, friendly and incredibly helpful. Amanda has been kind enough to give me her time and the benefit of her experience and knowledge outside of both of those arenas as well, when I've had a worry or panic about something quoting or client related. And very significantly, as the first person I contacted when I was made redundant and was about to plough myself into my new business, she kept me grounded and gave crucial advice that stopped me running off on a path that wouldn't have been right.
Amanda gives of herself selflessly and has helped open up the world of the VA industry to me in many ways, for which I'm incredibly grateful.
Amanda Cree
Amanda is amazing. I've been a VA for 15 years and she has been so supportive, since I met her almost 4 years ago. I wish I had met her when I started out, because I wouldn't have made the mistakes we all make when first starting out. Her coaching style is gentle but with bite, she will hold me accountable and is an expert at getting the absolute best out of you and for you. She has done the job, knows it inside out, and is brilliant. I cannot recommend her enough.
Athena Mae
Amanda has been an amazing support in my business journey. Not only have I had the pleasure of knowing Amanda as one of my 'super-customers', she's also been a mentor to me as well. Her level of VA expertise is astounding and it's been an absolute pleasure training with both Amanda and the VACT generally.
She is there to guide and support you throughout the VA journey, and Amanda is as invested in your business success as you are!
I'm honoured to have this amazing woman in my corner - deciding to train under her guidance, was one of THE best business decisions I've ever made and I have no hesitation in recommending her to anyone who is thinking of becoming a VA - and if you're currently a struggling VA, who need some extra support to get your business to the level of success that suits you and your family - I'd definitely recommend contacting Amanda too!
Sarah White
I have been mentored by Amanda for the last year and I can honestly say I do not what I would have done without her. She offers straight forward pragmatic advice, has been there and done it and appreciates how hard you have to work to build a successful VA business. She is always on hand to help and the support that is offered is second to none. You can always rely on her to be honest and forthright with a no nonsense approach. She is fantastic accountability partner. Thanks Amanda.
Emma Conway Hyde
Signing up for the VACT Mastery Course with Amanda Johnson, was such a great decision for both me and my business.
Not only has it given me a full understanding of all the steps required to set up and run a successful VA business, training with Amanda has given me the confidence, the assurance and most importantly the self-belief that I was lacking in myself that I can actually make this work.
Amanda Johnson is just born to coach and mentor. She has the perfect balance of experience, knowledge, skills and ideas all delivered with energy in an innovative, relaxed and supportive way. She is however not afraid to give you a push or even a gentle but firm kick when required.
If you are considering becoming a VA or are established but need some help to take your business to the next level, then I highly recommend that you check out the courses that Amanda offers at VACT. You won`t regret it. She really is quite Awesome!
Sandra Storoni
Amanda is an inspiring lady to say the least. She has given me vision, focus and masses of tools and confidence in my future as a virtual assistant business owner.
I recently completed the VA Mastery Course with the VACT and although it was a challenge, Amanda always made herself available to me whenever I had any questions, her response time was admirable considering how in demand her attention and time is. I have kept all of Amanda's feedback to the modules I completed as points of reference to running my business in future, they make an excellent read and are filled with both bags of praise, constructive criticism and tips on ideas to consider further. Her support has been extensive and 'above and beyond' at times; I would highly recommend her courses to anyone considering going into the VA industry.
Amanda's understanding of her clients' needs are her priority, this shows through in her natural ability to encourage and support people with her charm and warmth as a mentor. She is absolutely...AWESOME!
I really, really hope she will be able to help me launch my VA business later this year. Fingers crossed she will have space for me!
Amanda Gaffney
Theatre and Arts Virtual Assistant
I simply cannot speak highly enough of Amanda and her VA Mastery Course. I was a PA of 18 years seeking to work for myself as a VA though I had no experience of setting up and running my own business. Amanda and her course gave me the confidence to move forward and the tools and knowledge to set up my business. The format of the course is very progressive and each module takes you along the route of setting up your business step by step and covers everything you need to know and consider along the way. Amanda has a fair, no nonsense approach as she genuinely cares and wants to bring out the best in everyone that she helps. I recommend Amanda and any of her courses to anyone who wants to set up their VA business.
Michelle Nicholson
Virtual Hub, Cornwall
I recently completed The Social Media Manager Success Plan with Amanda and greatly enjoyed it. I'm also a member of the VA Help Desk and Amanda provides a wealth of information, knowledge and expertise for Virtual Assistants. You feel in very safe hands which is invaluable!
Jennifer Corcoran
Easily one of the best business decisions I have ever made was to book a discovery call with Amanda. By listening and asking the right questions, she helped me to identify where my focus needed to be in order to make my future VA business a success. You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain - don't delay book a discovery call today!
Rachael Cook
Amanda and I started collaborating at a key time in my business. I needed guidance and support and Amanda was perfect for me, with her experiences and approach suiting me very well. I joined the 1:2:1 mentoring programme and learned so much from Amanda who gave me confidence and direction to build my business. I am very happy to recommend Amanda to other VAs and business owners who are transitioning and are looking for expert guidance. Thanks to Amanda for also introducing me to the 'Go-Giver' approach to business.
Louisa Stewart
I trained with VACT on the Mastery Course before setting up my business. I left the 2 days feeling inspired and excited to start the journey of building my business. Each module covered a different part of turning your PA skills to VA skills and at the end of the course I was left with my "business bible" that was constantly referred to throughout the first couple of years I was trading - I still check it now and again now!
Amanda has continued to be a constant source or support and guidance throughout my journey in business and is to go-to person when I am stuck or need help. Her experience running her VA business means she can speak directly from the heart on all matters of running a successful VA business - from hiring to firing clients! I would recommend anyone at least signs up for Amanda's freebie and joins her Facebook group - VA Help Desk, but if possible start a course - you won't regret it! *Awesome Amanda*
Alex Platt
I contacted Amanda when I decided to set up a VA business. During our discussions she was very helpful and knowledgeable. It was also apparent that she knew the industry very well. I find Amanda very approachable, and is always happy to help. With Amanda's advice, I have been able to now set up my business correctly. Thank you Amanda.
Joanna Marat
I signed up to Amanda's training after discovering I could do possibly do the job I love on a self-employed basis. The training that VACT offer is thorough, detailed and challenging and focuses on running a successful VA business. Amanda herself is an incredibly generous and supportive trainer and mentor.
I wouldn't have my own successful business without the training of VACT or Amanda's ongoing support and I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to take the step of setting up their own VA business.
Judith Andrews
Completing the Kick Start Course has been the best investment for my business. When I started I thought I had an idea of the clients I wanted to work with and how I wanted to structure my business and how I would market my business. All of this has now completely changed thanks to everything I have learnt. Amanda has taught me so much that I hadn't and wouldn't have considered on my own. I have grown so much since starting this course and I am certain I can now make a success of my VA business which would have certainly failed if I hadn't have met Amanda. If anyone is considering training with Amanda at VACT - DO IT!
Louise Mackie
Working with Amanda on my journey to becoming a Virtual Assistant has provided me with a safe place to learn and grow. She is well informed and has a wonderful network of contacts who are willing to share their knowledge and expertise. Amanda coaches from a place of understanding and is professional to the core. Thank you for your support Amanda, it has been a privilege working with you and I look forward to maintaining contact through your mentoring programme.
June Whiteman
I would recommend any VA to speak with Amanda.
I booked into one of Amanda's discovery calls having first met her at the VA show in London a few weeks ago.
Amanda is extremely helpful, and shows a real interest in what you do. It is refreshing to bounce off ideas and gain Amanda’s valuable thoughts. Working alone as a freelancer means you need people like Amanda in your life who give you straight talking and effective advice, and speaking to Amanda who has gained a lot of industry experience and knowledge is an added bonus.
Talking to Amanda for 30 minutes has re-focused my mind on which direction I'm going to take my VA business and focus on what I do best – recruitment.
I truly hope to be in touch with Amanda again as my business grows further so I can benefit from her 1-2-1 mentoring.
Kimberley Miller
I would highly recommend Amanda as the best VA trainer I have come across. Her generosity with her time those she supports, but also even to those VAs unable to attend her courses, is extraordinary and really helps you feel championed along the way when things get tough or when you need experienced guidance to help you make decisions. She shares her knowledge unconditionally and is an excellent example of what many VA's could aspire to be. I would highly recommend working with Amanda.
Lucy Tipler
Amanda is truly awesome! I have known of Amanda for many years before I made the decision to join her 1:1 mentoring. After a few conversations where she shared her advice so freely, it was a no brainer that Elite PA Solutions would benefit from having her in our corner. Six months in and it's not a decision I have doubted - not once. Amanda is supportive, pushes me to think outside my comfort zone and given me the courage to 'just do it'. This year, I have started building a 'small top notch' team of virtual PAs who are now working successfully with Elite PA Solutions clients. Amanda's held me accountable and reminded me that 'doing' everything singlehanded is not growing my business. She's brilliant, calming and understanding of personal issues that do crop up and push you back at times. Highly recommend.
Sandy Hearn
I recently graduated from Amanda’s Kick Start Your VA Business after I decided to set up my own VA business, and I am so pleased I did! Having 20+ years of experience is one thing, but this well-structured course guided me through areas of setting up as a VA and forming my own business, to social media and how to handle clients. The course made me reflect, challenge and concentrate on areas I might not have considered, or might have overlooked, if I had started my business on my own. The webinars and opportunities to meet and communicate with other VAs inspired me. It is no surprise to those who know Amanda that she is an award winning business woman and VA training provider of the year. Even after graduating from the course Amanda is still in touch with advice and guidance as I transition, which I am so very grateful for. To anyone wanting to travel the VA journey your first step should be to make contact with Amanda. *Awesome*
Rachel Torretti
The best decision I have made in my Virtual Assistant business to date is engaging with Amanda through her VA Help Desk Programme. The support and training I have received have been 1st class. In the two months I have been a member of the Help Desk I have doubled my business and stopped worrying about every decision I make. Now I feel confident and able to take on new challenges which a few months ago seemed impossible. I'm looking forward to working more closely with Amanda in the future as my business grows. I would thoroughly recommend her services if you want to either get started as a VA or take your VA business to the next level.
Penny Redman
In life, you're sometimes lucky enough to get to know someone who is going to mean an awful lot to you AND the future of your business. Amanda is that someone, she's my kind of people! Passionate, thought provoker, creative, practical, firestarter, she's always there for you and has amazing tips and advice, personally and professionally. Amanda's approach to VA training and coaching is clear and concise, along with showing you how to structure, market and run your own VA company. Having recently graduated, I couldn't be happier with the journey we took together. Thanks again for everything Amanda, you're a great coach and mentor.
Claudia Adams
"I'm delighted that I came across VACT and Amanda Johnson, the training and support which Amanda provides is superb, it has been an invaluable resource in helping me set up and grow my VA business. From our initial contact when I enquired about the VACT training courses, to graduating, Amanda has been a great support, always happy to help, warm & friendly in everything that she does. Amanda's knowledge of the VA industry is outstanding, she's well respected, and that's not just limited to the VA community. It's been a pleasure working with Amanda, and if you are thinking of embarking on your own VA business, you should definitely have a conversation with her!"
Catherine Blackwood
Amanda Johnson is a wealth of knowledge and support. Luckily for the rest of us, she loves to share this knowledge! During our coaching session, I felt that my passions were her passions, too. She helped me to focus my energy to meet my goals much faster than I would have accomplished on my own.
Denise Clarity
A consummate professional and a pleasure to work with. Right from the word go Amanda took the initiative to understand my business and my requirements - more than that... she took time to understand me and my values.
I rely heavily on Amanda to keep track of my events and diary. She manages a never ending task list for me and helps bring things in on time.
I'd continue heaping praise on her for her support skills, but can't afford to lose her - to you. Maybe the next best thing would be your own VA from her VA training program."
Steve Clarke
Amanda has offered invaluable support to me over the past few months, providing me with mentoring advice and, at times, just there to lend an ear on business ideas and also personally. Her honesty and wide range of VA knowledge has been a huge help to me and therefore truly grateful for her support. If you are thinking of setting up a VA business, I would highly recommend getting in touch with Amanda or booking yourself on one of her courses, you honestly won't look back!
Lynsey Cowan
Wow, what a fabulous 2 days, as part of the VA Mastery Course, I have just had! Top tips, skills, setting of short and long term goals, meeting fabulous ladies all setting up their own Virtual Assistant businesses. The support from the trainer, Amanda Johnson is amazing. This course has been invaluable to realise what is involved in setting up a business and to guide me. For me, the CPD accreditation is a must, for any serious VA business. Thank you and looking forward to following everyone?s journey.
Clare Farthing
Who knew, when I discovered Amanda Johnson and the VACT just a few months ago, what a journey I was about to embark upon. I may have been a very experienced EA but I knew little about managing clients or marketing my own business as a VA. Training with Amanda has been inspirational. She motivates, is incredibly supportive and is tireless in her pursuit of students' success! I am so glad I became part of this unique group. Huge thanks Amanda!
Tina Skilton, Layfield’s Virtual Office Support
Thank you! The course has been brilliant to provide a structured approach to life as a VA, target marketing (your perfect client can only be found in a number of places!) and sharing tips and advice along the way. Amanda Johnson is an amazing role model and a great trainer too!
Sarah Clewes
I'm in the early stages of my VA journey and study with the VACT but I thoroughly recommend joining. Amanda is there for me and all the members every step of the way. She prompts us without being pushy and motivates us when we flag. Amanda is incredibly supportive and she is tireless in her pursuit of our success! I am so glad I joined the VACT and became part of this unique group.
Tina Skilton
Layfield
I can categorically state that without the VA Mastery Course and the encouragement of the VACT, I would have fumbled my way through starting my VA business. The content, training, methodology, the tools and the support provided will give you the boost and confidence you need to get your VA business off the ground.
Barbara Moorer
VA Taster Session, 2014, Bournemouth: I attended a recent VA taster session which Amanda held at a local hotel. From the very beginning of booking on-line to meeting up Amanda made everything so easy. The session took place over four hours and although we had an agenda the group session was very fluid and we spoke about things that concerned us becoming a VA with Amanda giving us her expert advice. At the end of the session Amanda very briefly spoke about the training courses she runs but there was no sales pitch or pressure to book onto future courses. In fact I have booked onto the further training courses and really feel that I am on my way to becoming a successful VA.
Barbara Marsh
Having just graduated from the VA Mastery Course with VACT, I wanted to say a big thank you to Amanda Johnson for her patience and understanding.
Amanda offers group webinars which are a really valuable resource, along with support throughout each of the 12 modules. She clearly has passion and expertise to help others who have the desire to become outstanding VA's.
For anyone thinking of becoming a VA then I'd recommend you start with Amanda at VACT
Sofia Freijeiro-Armitage
I decided to enrol on the Mastery Course and this was definitely the best thing I could have done. I have been given tools to set up and manage my business that I don't think I would have found anywhere else. With the support offered, you always have somewhere to turn when you are unsure or need clarification.
Angela Clark
Hey! THANK YOU! I took a random punt to go to Olympia and could not be more delighted that I met you at VACT stand. Your advice and direction is exceptional. I have thoroughly enjoyed the contact and support that I have had from you.
Ella Pickard
I cannot thank Amanda and VACT enough for all the help, guidance, support and much more that I have received throughout my training. I honestly don't think I could have launched my business without it. This training is absolutely exceptional, and when I am talking to potential new Clients they are always extremely interested and impressed when I tell them about the support we receive. I would urge anyone who is interested in becoming a VA to talk to Amanda, and to sign up now, you won't regret it I promise.
Julia Roberts
I chose Amanda to be my mentor. She has a vast amount of experience and knowledge about the Virtual Assistant world. She delivers her advice in a caring, yet no nonsense attitude. I always felt she is with me 100% in helping me to reach my goals. She was available on the phone, via email, via Linkedin or via Facebook. Every communication channel was open! I wouldn't hesitate for a second in recommending her services to aspiring Virtual Assistants or those that have been in business for years. Mentoring from Amanda enables you to drive your Virtual Assistant business forward, avoid unnecessary mistakes and realise your full potential. Thank you Amanda
Tanya Daye
In 2 hours sitting with Amanda, I learnt more about LinkedIn than I have in the previous 2 years of struggling to come to grips with it. Amanda was well prepared, she was very knowledgeable and the information she shared was relevant and easy to understand. Thank you Amanda for all your help.
Sarah McLellan
Amanda has provided an extremely comprehensive and enjoyable Social Media for Business training package for me. With deep specialist knowledge and patience, Amanda tailored and delivered the course paying particular attention to the areas I was most interested in gaining a thorough understanding of. Thank you so much.
Sara Field
I've just finished a great taster session with Amanda on Starting a VA business. It was well structured, informative and I came away feeling energised and full of excitement for my new career path! Amanda is a positive trainer, tuned in to her audience, and is approachable and engaged. Any questions I had were welcomed and answered with knowledge and examples. She is good at teasing out your strengths and areas in which you might specialise in order to differentiate yourself. I was given some good guidelines for moving ahead and the opportunity for more targeted training should I wish to extend my training.
I would heartily recommend anyone thinking of starting down the VA path to invest a few hours with Amanda - well worth the time!
Lynn Hillston
I'd like to thank Amanda for her invaluable advice and guidance on the world of a VA. Whilst it was not something that I decided to pursue at that time, if my circumstances changed again I would certainly consider a role as a VA. Amanda offers a number of training courses to guide you through and I would certainly consider taking one to get me started. Thanks again Amanda.
Penny Kift
Great Kingshill, Buckinghamshire
You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain from a discovery call with Amanda. She helps you put everything into prospective so you can decide what's right for you. I wouldn't hesitate recommending having a discovery call.
Susanne Earl
I would like to thank Amanda for her generous advice and guidance which is so freely given. Amanda's passion for training and supporting virtual assistants comes through in her webinars, giving so generously of her time, experience and wisdom. I would highly recommend Amanda if you are thinking of becoming a virtual assistant.
Trish McFarlane
Aberdeen
The VACT Blog
Blogging ideas for a VA
As a VA you could be missing out on a potential relationship building opportunity, if you don’t have a blog on your website. However, a lot of VAs shy away from having a blog, simply because they don’t know what to write about. This is something that can easily be...
What should you do to prepare for your first prospective client meeting?
Originally published by Carmen MacDougall in MARCH 2012 - the tips shared in this post are as relevant today as they were then: "I was inspired to write this tip as one of my super duper VA Mastery Course trainees has done so well in getting her first meeting, and she...
Getting results from networking?
Originally published by Carmen MacDougall in 2011 where she shared her thoughts on networking. Are you (still) feeling nervous about attending a networking event? Are you stuck what to say? Are you consistently leaving a networking meeting without the desired results?...
Internet security and staying safe online
Internet security is something that we, as VAs and individuals, need to be on the ball about. As VAs, we have systems and procedures in place to protect our client’s passwords and personal information etc, including the likes of LastPass and DashLane. With GDPR...
Are you charging your worth?
Knowing what to charge is a hot topic for any business owner. For VAs especially, charging your worth is something we all struggle with, especially when we’re first starting out. We’re new to the business, trying to get our first set of clients and are unsure of our...
Twitters Updated Terms of Service
How will Twitters Updated Terms of Service affect Virtual Assistants? This was a question I recently posed to Andy from ContentCal. Andy kindly recommended I share the following blog post with you. It is a post that was originally shared on their own blog, but the...
