Being a successful VA doesn’t really require that much in the way of tools. The barrier to entry is extremely low, but there are certainly some tools that are helpful and that will make your life (and your clients’ lives) easier. This list is not exhaustive and you may have tools you love and would like to share too.

* Bookkeeping and Invoicing Apps – Without a doubt, one of the most important aspects of being a VA is keeping track of your income and expenses, plus being able to send invoices to your clients. Today, it’s easier than ever. PayPal.com, GoDaddy, and QuickBooks offer tools for this purpose.

Links:
GoDaddy Bookkeeping – http://www.godaddy.com/Online_Bookkeeping
QuickBooks – http://www.intuit.co.uk/

* Relevant Software – Depending on what type of services you will offer, you’re going to need a list of software. If you plan to do graphic design, you might want to sign up for Adobe Creative Suite, for example. For sure you’re going to need word processing software like MS Word, or Open Office.

* Password Keeping App – It’s likely you are going to have a lot of accounts to sign into as a VA. You’ll have your clients’ plus your own, so an app that helps you keep track of passwords is essential. A good one to get is Lastpass.com.

Link – http://www.lastpass.com/

* Computer, Laptop, Monitor(s), Etc… – Some virtual assistants enjoy having a super-fast and up-to-date desktop computer with more than one monitor. It is very helpful to have more than one monitor to help you get more done in less time.

* File Backup and Sharing System – It’s important to be aware that file backup and sharing are not the same thing. You’ll need something like Dropbox.com for saving files, and for sharing with your clients. Plus, something like Mozy.com to back up your computer and files.

* Website – It’s imperative that you have a professional website to be a successful VA. You need a website that is not a free one, but one with your own domain. It is highly recommended that you use something like self-hosted WordPress.org to build your site. There are a few builders that work such as New Rainmaker, but it will be more expensive.

Link to New Rainmaker – http://my.newrainmaker.com/portal/

* Comfortable Chair – You are going to be sitting a lot to do your work, so a comfortable desk chair and set-up is very important. Don’t forget to get up and stretch every 90 minutes or so, and walk around and get your exercise in. It can be dangerous to sit for more than four hours per day. A good chair and moving around can help eliminate some of these issues.

* Calendar System – Keeping deadlines is very important for a VA. You will need a good calendar that will work on your mobile device. Google Calendar is actually a really good choice, but there are other types that even allow your clients to schedule appointments with you, such as TimeTrade.

Link to TimeTrade – http://www.timetrade.com/

The tools an individual VA may need will change depending upon their niche. For example, if you’re a VA who takes phone calls during lunch for a client, you’ll need a system that enables you to do that. The best course of action is to make a list of what you will do each day, and then ensure you have the tools that you need.