Hi there!
So you’re interested in getting started as a virtual assistant?
You’ve come to the right place.
My name is Jhenelle and I’ve been a successful part-time virtual assistant since December 2015. I made the transition to a full-time VA in October 2020.
I’ve dedicated this blog space to sharing my VA journey, top tips and pitfalls to avoid when it comes to freelancing and the online space in general.
Make sure you check out my very first article on how I got started as a VA with no experience
My journey started with Fiverr and in this article I will be sharing all the things required to get started as a freelancer using this platform.
Follow these 10 steps to get started:
Step 1. Create an email account dedicated to your virtual assistant/freelancing services.
I recommend creating a g-mail account because It is the number one company offering Internet-related services and products and has been seamlessly integrated into almost every platform known to man.
You will also have access to google drive for storage as well a google doc, sheets and a list of other tools that can assist in your virtual assistant/freelancing journey.
Lastly, creating a separate account from your personal will help you to keep things more organized.
Make your email address something simple but professional.
Step 2. Create your Fiverr Account
Fiverr is an online marketplace for freelance services. The company provides a platform for freelancers to offer services to customers worldwide starting at $5.00.
It’s important to note that your services do not need to start at $5.00. You determine your services and price according to your offer.
Sign up for Fiverr using the same g-mail account you created in step 1. The site will automatically pick up your IP address in order to add basic information such as your country.
Step 3. Decide on the services your will offer
If you are a new VA then it’s important to start out with what you already know. If you have administrative skills then make the transition using your expertise in these areas. You will be able to expand on your service and finalize your niche as you progress.
Check out my article 100 services you can offer on Fiverr to get some ideas
Step 4. Create a cover photo to advertise your services
You can create a standard cover for all your Gigs using Canva.
Standard Size: 550 X 370
Video
You do have the option of adding introduction videos and powerpoint. It’s a great option to have a video as it ranks higher in search results.
If you do decide to do a video, be sure to include the words, Exclusively on Fiverr for it to be approved.
Step 5. Finalize Gig Description and Pricing
You will be required to explain in detail what you offer and what clients can expect from your
Service.
For example:
My proofreading and editing service includes:
-Blog posts
-Marketing Materials
-Resumes
-Cover letter
-E-mails (personal or business)
-Short stories
-Manuscripts
-Technical documents
I will provide proofreading (grammar, spelling, verb tenses) along with line by line editing (word variety, alternate sentence structure, transitions, paragraph structure, flow, organization)
700 words, 2 day delivery – $10.00
Drop me a message for a quick response if you have any requirements that are beyond what is listed.
FIVERR MISCONCEPTION
There is a major misconception out there that Fiverr only offers cheap services. Please see my blog post 5 Reasons I use Fiverr more than Upwork. I discuss some of the common myths and misconceptions.
Fiverr’s platform allows you to build your online reputation by creating “levels”. If you meet Fiverrs requirements you will be rewarded with a badge that tells you your seller level.
-Level 1
-Level 2
-Top Seller
-Pro-Seller
The goal is to keep building your reputation so the platform can take you to the next level of freelancing.
If you are a brand new VA with very limited experience, it offers an opportunity for you to get experience while being paid for your job.
If you have a portfolio of experience you can sign up for Fiverrpro. You will need to be vetted for approval.
If you do not sign up as Fiverrpro and you are a new Fiverr user with no reviews, then I recommend creating a Gig package that has an offer starting at $5.00
For example offering a first time buyer special. 1 hour of service for $5.00 with a 2 day delivery.
Then you can have another rate for full time service.
Start by doing a bit of market research so you have an idea of your competitor’s offering.
Remember, the whole idea behind using this platform as a new VA is mostly about building your reputation.
Step 6. Complete your profile
In the top right hand corner you will see the first letter of your user name. Click the letter, select profile and complete the required fields.
Leave the field blank for the question that asks – Which industry does the workplace/business belong to?
Step 6. Create your gig
When you offer a service on Fiverr it is called a Gig. You will be required to use the cover photo along with the description and pricing outlined in the steps above. Tag your gig by typing the relevant keywords needed.
Step 8. Send at least 10 Buyers Request per day
You have the option of applying for jobs that appear in the buyer’s request section. You are allowed a maximum of 10 per day.
Step 9. Go above and beyond on your first sale
Complete your first job and ask the buyer for a smashing review if they were satisfied with your service.
Step 10. Method of Withdrawal
Fiverrs platform will collect all payments from your clients and is usually processed and released to your account within a few days.
To get access to your funds you will be required to add a withdrawal method.
You can use paypal, Payoneer or a local bank (If applicable)
If you reside outside North America and find it difficult to get Paypal then Payoneer is the next best option.