How to Get Your First VA Client (Even If You Don’t Have a Portfolio Yet)

One of the biggest fears new VAs have is this:

“How do I get clients when I’m just starting out?” 

Here’s the truth:
You don’t need a long CV.
You don’t need years of experience.
You don’t even need a perfect website.

What you do need is a clear plan - and that’s exactly what this blog will give you.

Here’s how to get your very first VA client (even if you’re starting from scratch!).

1. Start with the skills you already have

Before you learn anything new, ask:
“What skills am I already good at that businesses need?” 

This could be:

•  admin
•  customer service
•  communication
•  social media
•  writing
•  organisation
•  tech
•  events
•  project coordination

Most new VAs massively underestimate the skills they already have. Start there.

2. Choose 3–5 starter services

Don't list 20 services. Keep it simple.

Choose a handful like:

•  inbox management
•  scheduling
•  Canva graphics
•  social media engagement
•  data entry
•  customer support
•  basic tech support
•  content formatting

Clear, simple services make it easier for clients to say yes.

3. Create a simple 'Getting Started' offer

You don’t need packages yet.
You don’t need fancy branding.
You don’t need complex pricing.

Start with something like:

✨ “10 hours of virtual assistant support for £250 to help you get organised and save time this month.” 

It’s clear.
It’s easy to understand.
It builds trust quickly.

4. Optimise your online presence

You do NOT need a website to start - but you do need somewhere clients can see what you offer.

Start with:

•  a simple Instagram bio
•  an updated LinkedIn profile
•  a clear ‘services’ highlight
•  a clean Canva-made price guide

Your online presence should answer one question for clients:

“Can this person help me right now?” 

5. Tell your warm network

This is the fastest way most VAs get their first client.

Share a simple, confident message like:

✨ “I’m officially opening spots for virtual assistant clients this month. If you or someone you know needs help with organisation, admin, or social media support, send me a message - I’d love to help!”

People can’t hire you if they don’t know what you do.
 

6. Join VA-friendly spaces online

Your clients are already online - you just need to go where they are.

Try:

•  Facebook groups
•  entrepreneur communities
•  networking events
•  local business groups
•  Instagram comments
   co-working spaces

Be helpful, visible, and friendly - NOT salesy.

7. Keep showing up (consistency wins)

Your first client might come from:

•  a DM
•  a comment
•  a friend
•  a networking call
•  a story
•  a Facebook post

The VAs who win are the ones who stay consistent - not the ones who post once and disappear.

You’re closer to your first client than you think

Inside The ROCKET VA™ Academy, we equip you with skills, templates, scripts, messaging, client processes and confidence so you can start signing clients quickly - even if you’ve never been a VA before.

If you're ready to build a business that gives you freedom and flexibility, book your Discovery Call today.

You can also access our FREE VA Starter Kit here.