If you’re looking for a flexible job that allows you to work from anywhere, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) could be the perfect career move. As a VA, you provide administrative support and services to clients remotely using technology like email, video conferencing, and cloud storage.
The virtual assistant industry is booming in Canada as more companies go remote and entrepreneurs seek help with tasks like email management, scheduling, data entry, and customer service. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to apply for virtual assistant jobs in Canada, what skills you need, how to stand out, and how much you can earn.
What Skills Do You Need to Be a Virtual Assistant?
The most in-demand skills for virtual assistant jobs in Canada include:
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Proficiency with technology like MS Office, G Suite, Zoom, etc.
- Attention to detail and ability to multitask
- Prior administrative, customer service, or related experience
While not mandatory, some clients may prefer VAs with specialized skills like:
- Bookkeeping
- Graphic design
- Website management
- Social media marketing
- Transcription
Having a niche skill or area of expertise can help you stand out from the crowd and command higher rates. But at the minimum, strong admin and communication skills are essential.
How Much Can You Earn as a Canadian Virtual Assistant?
According to PayScale, the average hourly rate for a virtual assistant in Canada is around $18/hour. Entry-level VAs may start around $15/hour, while experienced VAs with in-demand skills can earn $25/hour or more.
Some VAs charge per hour, while others work on a project or retainer basis. Part-time VAs may earn $500-$2000 per month, and full-time VAs can make $3,000-$5,000+ per month.
Your earning potential largely depends on your skills, experience, client load, and whether you work for an agency or build your own client base.
Where to Find Virtual Assistant Job Opportunities in Canada
Now that you know what it takes, it’s time to start applying for virtual assistant jobs in Canada. Here are some of the top places to find VA opportunities:
- Job Boards
Popular job sites like Indeed, Monster, and ZipRecruiter are goldmines for finding remote virtual assistant roles. Search for terms like “virtual assistant,” “remote admin,” or even browse the “work from home” category.
- VA Companies
Virtual assistant companies serve as the middlemen by hiring VAs as contractors or employees and then assigning them to clients. This takes some of the hassle out of finding your own clients. Some top VA companies hiring in Canada include:
- Virtual Assistant Canada
- Belay
- Auxilily
- Inboxdone
- Fancy Hands
- Remote Job Sites
Sites dedicated solely to remote jobs are treasure troves for finding legitimate work-from-home roles like virtual assistants. Check out:
- We Work Remotely
- Remote.co
- FlexJobs
- Virtual Gurus
- Social Media
LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter are goldmines for unadvertised virtual assistant jobs. Follow companies in your niche, join remote job groups, and network to uncover hidden opportunities.
- Freelance Sites
If you want to build your own VA business, sites like Upwork and Fiverr can help find your first clients by bidding on relevant projects.
While the opportunities are endless, sorting through dozens of VA job ads can be a headache. Let’s look at some tips for a smooth application process.
Sure Tips for Applying to Virtual Assistant Jobs
With so much competition, it’s crucial to submit tailored, high-quality applications if you want to get hired as a VA in Canada. Follow these tips:
- Craft a Killer Resume
Make your resume shine by highlighting all relevant administrative, customer service, and tech skills. If you have prior VA experience, showcase it! If not, focus on transferable skills from other roles. Have a strong summary that introduces you as a professional VA.
- Write an Attention-Grabbing Cover Letter
A generic cover letter won’t cut it. Study each job ad and tailor your cover letter to show how your skills and background make you the best fit. Share a relevant story or achievement to stand out.
- Build an Online Presence
Employers want to see that you’re professional and tech-savvy. Create a branded LinkedIn profile, resume website, online portfolio, and any other relevant accounts to highlight your experience and expertise.
- Apply Quickly
Virtual assistant roles tend to get flooded with applicants fast. If you find a great opportunity, don’t delay. Apply as soon as you see a relevant job ad.
- Follow Instructions Carefully
You’d be surprised how many candidates fail to follow basic application instructions. If asked to send a certain document, do it without hesitation. Mistakes like this are an easy way to get your application trashed.
- Prepare for Interview
Once your application is shortlisted, be ready to absolutely crush the interview. Research the company, prepare insightful questions, and have your own questions ready. A video interview is common for remote VA roles.
- Offer a Paid Trial
To stand out, you could offer to complete a paid trial shift for the client. This is a great way to showcase your skills and give them a risk-free way to evaluate you.
Land Your Dream VA Job in Canada
By combining a mix of must-have skills, persistence, and the right application strategy, you can absolutely land virtual assistant jobs in Canada.
Build up your skillset, craft a polished resume and online presence, and don’t get discouraged by rejection. The remote job market is booming, so keep applying to opportunities that excite you.
Before long, you could land your dream VA role—no commute required!
