When my virtual assistance story is finally written, two or three chapters might be dedicated to Grammarly. I would still be a great writer without this software, but I am thankful it exists. Grammarly is a powerful tool that can immensely benefit virtual assistance. Basically, the tool aids in proofreading. It is a must-have tool for writers, be they freelance writers or not. Here are some ways Grammarly has assisted me in my virtual assistance journey, specifically in proofreading or checking my writing: 1.      Enhanced Communication Skills Grammarly helps improve my writing by suggesting corrections for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. This ensures that my communication with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders is clear, professional, and error-free. Of course, I don’t accept every suggestion Grammarly offers because it does miss the context sometimes. But it helps a lot in pointing out typos such as thiss onee . 2.   ...

Before 2020, I used various apps to set reminders, enlist tasks of the day, or jot down short notes. However, none seemed to meet my particular needs as a virtual assistant until I stumbled upon Google Meet. I say 'stumbled' because I wasn’t even looking for a tool when I came across it. I was searching for some Chrome extension when it popped up under “similar tools you can try” or something. I didn’t even know it was a Google property when I added it to my Chrome. Okay, I had been seeing “Keep” somewhere on my Gmail dashboard, but I didn’t bother to check what it was for. Once I started using it by and by, I realized it was just the right tool for me. Anyway, Google Keep is a versatile and user-friendly note-taking application that has helped me in many ways since 2020. By the way, I use it for other personal stuff, not just virtual assistance work. It is my ultimate notebook. This is where I write my thoughts, be they random ideas or a poem I’m inspired to write while tr...

 Choosing Google Drive for your virtual assistant (VA) activities can be a strategic decision based on various factors. I’m writing from personal experience. My online work would be difficult without a tool such as Google Drive. I know other people out there have other options but for me, I have always preferred Google Drive ever since I realized its true worth about 5-6 years ago. I have not longed for an alternative or sought to find a better option because it meets all my needs. If you are an established or an upcoming VA, I urge you to consider using Google Drive . Here are some reasons why you might prefer Google Drive for your VA tasks: 1.      Collaboration and Sharing Google Drive is known for its strong collaboration features. It allows multiple users to simultaneously work on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. No need to email a document around. One document can be worked on by different people in different locations. This is particul...

 The appropriate hourly rate for a Kenyan virtual assistant (VA) can vary depending on several factors, including the VA's skill set, experience, the complexity of tasks, and the specific services they offer. Additionally, market rates and cost of living in different regions of Kenya may influence the hourly rates. Considering these factors is essential when determining a fair and competitive rate. Pay at least Kes 500 for a job that will likely take about 1 hour. The level of work and the expertise required may push up the service fee. Please, and again, please, do not exploit Kenyan virtual assistants. Here are the general guidelines to look into when figuring out what to pay a Kenyan virtual assistant: 1.      Entry-Level VAs: For VAs with basic administrative skills and limited experience, hourly rates range from $5 to $10 per hour. These individuals may handle tasks like data entry, email management, and basic administrative support. 2.  ...

Do you think I am a wealthy person? Here is the truth: I am not. Or, not yet. I know a bunch of virtual assistants making huge, mind-boggling money. However, I would not say I am there yet. While working as a virtual assistant (VA) can provide a steady income and flexibility, becoming wealthy solely through this line of work might be challenging. Forget the incredible claims you hear on social media. Everyone would be a virtual assistant if it was the best job in the world. A wealthy freelance writer Virtual assistants typically offer administrative, technical, or creative support to clients and businesses, and their income is often tied to the number of hours worked or the projects undertaken. This can go up or down. Now, who is a wealthy person? Eh, let me not answer that. I know you know. So can you become wealthy working as a virtual assistant? The answer is yes. And no. You can, and you cannot. Virtual assistants are generally paid hourly or on a project basis. While you ...

 Too much of anything is dangerous. Working online pays most of my bills, but I have to use it in moderation. Even good things can become little gods. Computers were invented to make work easier. However, they can become little gods. Preventing computer addiction while working online as a virtual assistant (VA) is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and overall well-being. I use several strategies to manage my online work effectively and avoid computer addiction. These include: 1.      Establishing Clear Boundaries ·          I set specific working hours and stick to them. ·           I create a designated workspace to separate work from leisure activities. ·          I avoid working in spaces associated with relaxation, such as my bedroom. 2.      Taking Regular Breaks ·   ...

Communication is key. When it comes to working online as a virtual assistant, everything rises and falls on proper communication. I have lost clients because of poor communication -- by failing to respond in time, or whatever I meant being misinterpreted. Using WhatsApp for communication as a virtual assistant (VA) offers me several advantages, making my work more efficient and streamlined. It is not perfect, but right now it is the best communication tool I have. Here are some ways in which communication via WhatsApp has benefited my work as a VA: 1.      Instant Messaging WhatsApp provides real-time communication, allowing me to send and receive messages instantly. This can be particularly useful for quick updates, clarifications, or addressing urgent matters with clients or team members. 2.      Accessibility WhatsApp is widely used, and many people are familiar with its interface. It’s accessible on my smartphones and computers, ma...