We’ve all been there – juggling multiple tasks, aiming for perfection, and feeling the weight of being relied upon. When things don’t go as planned, it’s easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism. But here’s the thing: we need to be kinder to ourselves. 

Let’s talk about how to not beat yourself up and pick yourself up when things go awry.

First and foremost, recognize the hard work you’re putting in. Being high-functioning means you’re constantly pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. Celebrate the small wins and remember that your dedication is already a huge achievement.

Even the best of us make mistakes. It’s part of being human. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Every mistake is a chance to improve and become even better at what you do.

When you catch yourself spiraling into negative self-talk, stop and reframe your thoughts. Instead of saying, “I messed up,” try thinking, “I’m learning and growing.” Positive self-talk can make a world of difference in how you perceive challenges.

Sometimes, all you need is a breather. Step away from your work, take a walk, meditate, or do something you enjoy. Giving yourself a break can help clear your mind and reduce stress, making it easier to tackle tasks with a fresh perspective.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or colleagues. Sharing your feelings and getting a different perspective can be incredibly comforting. Plus, they might offer valuable advice or simply be there to listen.

There are always going to be things outside of our control. Instead of stressing over them, focus on what you can control – your actions, your attitude, and your effort. By concentrating on these aspects, you’ll feel more empowered and less overwhelmed.

While it’s great to aim high, it’s also important to set realistic expectations. Understand that perfection is an illusion, and striving for it can be exhausting. Aim for excellence, but also allow room for imperfections.

As VAs and freelancers, we often take on more than we can handle because we don’t want to let anyone down. But it’s crucial to recognize your limits. Learn to say no when you need to and prioritize your well-being.

Be as kind to yourself as you would be to a friend. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your feelings and treating yourself with the same care and understanding you offer to others.

When things don’t go right, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. But remember, every day is a new opportunity to start fresh. Keep moving forward, stay positive, and trust that you’re capable of achieving great things.

In the end, being relied upon means you’re trusted and valued. Mistakes and setbacks don’t diminish your worth or abilities. Embrace them as part of the journey, and know that you’re doing an amazing job.

So, to all my fellow VAs and freelancers out there – let’s be kinder to ourselves. We’re in this together, and together, we can continue to grow, learn, and succeed.

Keep shining,

Whenever I stop blogging for a while, you know what that means: It's either I've been arrested or that I'm too swamped with work and that my life is actually doing pretty great! Obviously, it's the latter and what can I say? I live in the real world. 

Blogging and writing my heart out has always been my outlet. From the moment I saw Sarah Jessica Parker in SITC tapping away on her Apple laptop when I was in college, I thought that would be my future... 

And even as the show ended... and then came the movies, I still thought that'd be my future. 

And guess what? It really turned out that way! That's me.

Well, I don't work primarily as a writer or blogger anymore (just like Carrie Bradshaw, the character, moved on with her life as a writer and an author), and I have had several laptops and computers die over the years (because, yay, technology!). But really I'm still on my computer or whatever device I need for work, nevertheless, about 8-10 hours a day. 

It's always been like that for the past 18 years now. You know that I started at the call centers, then did home-based transcription, then became a virtual assistant. And again, like I always say, I wouldn't want it any other way!

When AI emerged as a perceived threat to human employees in 2022, I didn't feel the panic that many others did. I saw AI not as a replacement, but as a powerful tool that could enhance my capabilities. Early on, I learned how to wield it effectively and integrate it into my workflow.

With artificial intelligence, I've boosted my skills, streamlined my tasks, and increased my productivity. Instead of fearing it, I used AI to my advantage, making myself an indispensable online worker. With this technology, I've stayed ahead of the curve and delivered even more value.

What took me hours to finish back then, made it super simple and quick that in just 15 minutes, I'm done with my task. How's that for productivity? And what that means is now I'm able to take on more work and be super productive (kaching!) because of AI assistance. 

So, no, that doesn't mean AI does *ALL* the hard work. No one replaces human touch and my style may be imitated but I have the final say. It doesn't replicate my unique approach and skills, and I take pride in that. I stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies to ensure my clients get the best results. I stay true to my mission: Providing the highest quality work and delivering excellence.

But I can't emphasize it enough. There's no need to be scared of AI... because using AI has given me more time and freedom, which I think is the best kind of luxury. With ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and all the others helping me out, I can finish my work faster and better. This means I have more free time to do things I love and spend with my family. 

It’s just amazing how these tools can make such a big difference. Now, I get to enjoy my life more while still getting all my work done. As my son keeps reminding me whenever I start getting stressed:

"Hey, mom.... relax. You work to live... you don't live to work." 

So, if you're on the same boat as me, keep in mind that there's plenty of fish in the sea. Let's not limit ourselves but instead, let's continue to strive to create something greater together. Let's be bold and fearless in our efforts. Let's cast wider nets and let's make it happen!

Life’s full of waiting times, right? We all hang on for that next job, a green light on our plans, or just that break we're hoping for. 

I used to think waiting was just wasted time, but not anymore. Now I see it as a chance to grow and think deep.

There was a stretch when it seemed like nothing was happening. Job hunting was my full-time gig, and let me tell you, it was tough. Every day was a mix of hope and that twisty feeling you get when you’re not sure what’s coming next.

That waiting game? It taught me a lot about chilling out and knowing when to step back. Some stuff just can’t be hurried. Life’s got its own pace, and we’ve got to move with it, not against it.

During that slow time, I took a page from nature’s book. Just like winter turns to spring, I knew my waiting would turn into something new, too. It's like waiting is the universe's way of getting us ready for what’s next.

And then one day, boom! The perfect job popped up in my email. It was the right fit, like it had my name on it. All that waiting made sense. It was like life was saying, “See? I got you.”

So, here's the thing about waiting: it's not just sitting around. It's trusting the process, believing in your path, and getting ready for when it’s your turn to shine.

If you're stuck in a waiting spot, hang in there. The good stuff comes to folks who wait, sure. But it really comes to those who know their dreams are worth the wait. It's about the person you're becoming while you’re waiting.

So, let's stick it out during these waiting seasons. They’re our chance to gear up for the awesome times ahead. Believe me, the toughest waits often lead to the best beginnings.

In the tapestry of life, every thread tells a story, and mine weaves through a path less traveled, guided by a dream that refused to be dimmed.

Picture this: the 90s, a time when the world was on the cusp of digital awakening yet still clung to the traditional. It was then I stood at a crossroads, my heart set on storytelling, my mind alive with tales yet to be told. 

Journalism called to me, a siren's song promising adventure and the thrill of the chase. But the harsh reality of low pay and the peril that comes with voicing the truths that others wish to silence cast a shadow over that dream.

So, I chose a different path, one that didn't require a college degree in journalism to validate my passion or my ability to capture the essence of humanity in words. 

The decision wasn't easy. It felt like stepping off a cliff, hoping the wind would carry me. And carry me it did, through self-study, through nights turned to dawn over books and screens, learning not just the art of writing but the craft of weaving emotion and fact into narratives that speak.

I turned my gaze inward, to the boundless realms of imagination, finding stories in the mundane, the extraordinary, in the silent whispers of life. 

My education was the world itself, each experience a lesson, every person I met a chapter in the vast encyclopedia of life. 

The internet became my classroom, a portal to knowledge as vast as the sea, where I could dive deep into any subject that caught my fancy. 

I learned about human psychology, marketing, the subtle art of persuasion, and the bold art of storytelling. And then, almost without realizing it, I found myself in the world of copywriting. A world where words are not just words but keys that unlock desires, dreams, and decisions. 

Who would have thought that this path, once overlooked, would become one of the most sought-after professions? 

That I, writing from the comfort of my home, dressed not in suits but in pajamas, would find safety and fulfillment in a job that didn't exist in the minds of many when my journey began?

The irony isn't lost on me. The very essence of journalism—storytelling—is what I do every day as a copywriter. 

The medium has changed, but the heart of it remains: to tell a story that resonates, that moves people, that makes them see the world in a new light. 

And in this digital age, my words reach farther than I ever imagined, touching lives across the globe from my quiet corner.

This journey of mine, from a dreamer deterred by the daunting realities of the 90s to a digital nomad thriving in the virtual world, is a testament to the power of perseverance, of believing in one's self when the path seems uncertain. 

It's a reminder that sometimes, the road less traveled is the one that leads to the most beautiful destinations.

So, to those standing at their own crossroads, remember this: the essence of who you are and what you wish to achieve cannot be confined to a degree or a traditional career path. 

The world is vast, and the opportunities it holds are endless. 

Keep writing your own story, one word, one day, at a time.

As the world sleeps, my workday springs to life. For almost two decades, I've found my professional haven in the quiet hours of the graveyard shift. My journey into nocturnal work started not out of necessity, but from a preference that soon turned into a passion.

Why Graveyard?

There's a serenity to the night that fuels my creativity, especially in my remote work setup. The stillness enhances my focus, allowing my INTJ brain to delve deeply into projects without the distractions of daytime hustle. It's a period where my thoughts are clearest, and my productivity peaks.

The Health Balance

Managing health while working unconventional hours has been a journey of learning and adaptation. I've discovered that consistency is key. Maintaining regular sleep patterns, even on weekends, keeps my internal clock in sync. Nutrition plays a pivotal role, too, like opting for healthy snacks (nuts, lots of nuts!) instead of caffeine surges has been transformative.

Exercise: The Non-Negotiable

Regular exercise is my non-negotiable especially now in my 40s. It's not just about physical health (hello, maintenance!) but it's a crucial element for mental clarity. A mix of walking, light and brisk, as well as going up and down our stairs keep my energy levels balanced.

The Work Environment

This is it, pancit! A comfortable and inspiring workspace makes a world of difference. Investing in a good office chair and a desk that's got enough space as well as suits my height so I can do some standing while working has been a game-changer, hence, preventing the physical strain that often comes with long hours at a computer. Thoughtful lighting – not too harsh, not too dim – keeps my workspace conducive to productivity, yet cozy. Oh, and always a bottle of peppermint (or my favorite Clarity blend) handy so I can diffuse it when I need to be a little extra creative!

Updated workstation, circa 2024

Tips for Aspiring Night Owls

For those considering the graveyard shift, especially in remote work, here are a few tips:

So, this time I did some introspection and thought about my life and my work in general. I've always done things I love for the past 4 decades of my life because I really do believe in Ikigai. However, there are times when "adulting" is needed and I need to find more or better sources of income. I also think we need multiple streams of it if we need to survive in this world in comfort. Although I'm pretty much content with what I have in life because I've never once felt deprived of anything, maybe it wouldn't hurt to be more ambitious.

Be that as it may, I thought I'd put together a profile for myself. Perhaps if anyone wants to work with me or needs to understand me, I think this would be quite helpful.

Name:

Maria Franco

40

Virtual Assistant Extraordinaire

Step into Maria's world, where brilliance meets relentless energy. Maria is a rockstar virtual assistant with an INTJ's sharpness, strategy, and innovation, all while navigating the exhilarating challenges and zest of high-functioning ADHD. For over 15+ years, she's been the driving force behind countless business successes, weaving her meticulous planning with a touch of spontaneity.

Here's my current resume/CV.

Characteristics:

Strategic Dynamo: Maria's INTJ foundation means she's always got an eye on the bigger picture. Her ADHD brings a dash of impromptu genius, letting her pivot on a dime when needed.

Energetic Service-Driven: Maria's magnetic personality is fueled by her dedication to excellence and service. While she's naturally introverted, her ADHD injects bursts of lively engagement, making her the heartbeat of any project.

Master Multitasker: Maria's vast skill set, from content creation to social media mastery, is honed by her INTJ's love for learning. ADHD means she's often juggling multiple tasks at once - but she wouldn't have it any other way.

Transparent and Accountable: She's all about clear communication, ensuring everything is laid out and understood. Her ADHD means she's prone to seeking immediate feedback, ensuring her work aligns perfectly with clients' expectations.

Apart from her professional prowess, Maria is a lifelong learner. She's often found exploring new digital tools or techniques, always eager to add another feather to her cap. Weekends might find her diving into a new podcast series or drafting a thought piece for her personal blog.

Challenges:

Maria thrives on structure. While her INTJ side crafts detailed plans, her ADHD can sometimes send her down unexpected paths. Over the years, she's perfected the art of harnessing this spontaneity, turning potential detours into shortcuts to success.

Social Life:

Maria's inner circle is compact but deeply connected. Friends and clients alike know they can count on her for her honesty, depth, and occasional bursts of infectious enthusiasm. Many an evening is spent brainstorming business strategies or dissecting the latest online trends over a cup of tea.

Summary:

Maria Franco seamlessly blends the methodical prowess of an INTJ with the vivacious unpredictability of ADHD. In the vast digital realm, she stands as a beacon of dedication, creativity, and unparalleled skill. Whether it's crafting compelling content or managing multifaceted projects, Maria's motto rings true: "Everything is possible if you are willing to learn new things."

TL;DR 

If you're here to see if a freelancer or a virtual assistant can apply for loan, then the short and direct answer is YES! And thanks for dropping by my blog, so I hope my story will help you in your research to apply for a loan and eventually get approved. 

What is a Pag-IBIG Fund Housing Loan and who can get it? Simply put, it is a special program that helps people buy their own house. Pag-IBIG is short for Pagtutulungan sa Kinabukasan: Ikaw, Bangko, Industriya at Gobyerno (O diba? See what a simple Google search can do?) and it just means helping each other for the future basically. 

To get the loan, you need to follow certain rules, like being a member of Pag-IBIG Fund and having enough money saved up. If you follow the rules and get approved, you can buy your dream house and pay for it over a long time. Simple right? Well, not really. I'll explain it as best as I can and share with you my personal experience, which is very positive, by the way. 

So, this is not a blog to bash them or anything, but I'd like to help you (who is reading this blog) because I feel like some people need some clarifications, and it could save you time as well when preparing your documents. Di lalim mag balik2x ug mag linya2x sa mga opisina ha!

Anyway, I am so glad I agreed to avail myself of the Pag-IBIG membership when I was still employed by a local company and since it was a very minimal deduction from my salary. I never thought I would use it really, but (never say never!) you really need to have a contribution to qualify for a loan from Pag-IBIG. For more of the Eligibility Requirements, check their official website. 

Now, let's talk about the *ACTUAL* Loan Application Process and my journey. The documents to prepare are already listed on the website, but it was very helpful to speak with a Pag-IBIG staff to really know what you need. There are things that need to be the original copies, while some are fine with just photocopies. I can't even count the number of times I went to city hall just to secure those certified true copies, but it is what it is. 

I just wished the government agencies in my city are closer to each other, ahem, BIR, why are you located so far??? I can just imagine the plight of other people who need to commute. I'm thankful I get chauffered around, because why not chocnut? I don't mean to brag but honestly, I don't like to drive anymore so I like having people take me places now. *signs of aging* Also, parking can be a nightmare... literally.

I digress. Back to the Pag-IBIG Fund Housing Loan application process. Now, once you get all your documents sorted, it's time to apply for the loan. Wait, do I have to tell you the timeline? Okay. Maybe I should, so you get an inkling of how long it really takes. Here are the actual dates of what occurred while I got my documents ready. So, for me, first of all, I applied for the purpose of purchasing a lot. This is per the advice of the Pag-IBIG Fund staff. I will apply for another loan specifically for the purpose of house construction, which will be part 2 of this blog. So, yes, you can get more loans!

Around March 2022, I started preparing my documents according to the website's instructions. It took me a while to secure everything because of tax documents as a freelancer/business owner/self-employed/mixed-income earner/Jill of All Trades. They say it's easier as an employee actually because all they need is their employer to help them with the docs. 

Eventually, around August 2022, I finally submitted all my papers. But only after I was given another list of documents to submit by a super helpful Pag-IBIG staff (shoutout to Sir Arvin for always being so accommodating!!!). Remember: you need to submit TWO (2) FOLDERS, so it was like TWO (2) copies of everything. I literally finished a ream of bond paper printing all my stuff. 

My approved loan amount was reduced to match my capacity to pay for it. Well, duh, obviously. So, if you can provide as much source of income as you can, do it. That's why I really suggest freelancers and online/remote workers pay taxes properly. Things will boil down to your annual income tax return (ITR). But let me tell you the good thing about applying for a loan as a virtual assistant or freelancer. You just need a certificate of engagement or employment from your client/boss stating your salary/compensation per month. A Pag-IBIG staff is going to verify that with them via email. They won't call internationally, so don't fret. They just need to send a quick email reply back. That's it, pancit. Just give your boss, finance team, or HR the heads up to expect the email.

The application process will take around 20 working days. It's in their citizen's charter, and they're very stringent about it. They also email you constantly for updates, which is pretty cool and assures you that things are getting done. By September 16, 2022, I got an email of DISAPPROVAL. Boom! But wait, they will give you 30 days to comply with the missing documents or whatever you need to submit.

Well, I ran into an issue of missing monuments in the sketch plan and regarding the title of the lot because they needed a subdivision plan attached to it. So, we had to drive all the way to Tacloban to the Bureau of Lands that wasn't able to help. (Shout out to Engr. Mark of Pag-IBIG, who was in charge of inspecting the lot/property and walked us through how to get the subdivision plan!). 

Eventually, we had to ask our neighbor (who happens to also be our geodetic engineer!) to help us and he asked his friend from the Malaking Lupa to go to the Land Authority to secure the document. Ugh. That was unexpected but needed. So, prepare to shell out some extra because some of the documents you need to submit come with a price, maybe calling in some favors, and a helluva leg work! 

Now, after completing and submitting the other required documents on October 3, 2022, I finally received the Notice of Approval on October 19, 2022. Yayyy! See? That didn't take long as long as you got everything completely and correctly prepared/submitted! But then, the real arduous journey began. Now, there were quite a number of paperwork that had to be secured, which involved notarized copies, certified true copies, and all that jazz. Pag-IBIG Fund will give you 90 days to comply. Considering there were holidays in December, so by January, I had to request an extension which was granted until March 17, 2023.

So, why wasn't 90 days enough? Seems like a long time to get ready. Well, let me tell you why. My BIR experience was like going to hell and back. Long story short, it took 4 weeks just to get my capital gains tax sorted and my Certificate Authorization Registration (CAR) to be released! So, that the guy in charge who received my folder of documents took a week off, traveled for a seminar, told me his grandma died (may she rest in peace!), and then lost my damn folder. So, I had to procure documents back to square one! Que horror! 

The amount I paid to process everything, by the way, was also no joke. It went well into the 6 figures, but this tax would also depend on how much you purchase the lot. (Note: Whenever I say, "I did this or I did that," this is with the consent of my husband because, after all, the loan includes your spouse, if you're married, as the borrower!). 

I based the amount in our Deed of Sale on the approved Pag-IBIG Fund Housing Loan amount to keep things simple. But that's just me because I hate Math, which is still the bane of my existence. The back-and-forth travel between the attorneys/lawyers, City Hall (Registry of Deeds & Assessor's Office), the banks, and BIR Office is something you need to brace for. And waiting in line... (Shoutout to Liny for doing all the follow-up for me when I couldn't!)

Oh, in case you're wondering, my parents are the sellers of the lot. So, technically, I took a housing loan from Pag-IBIG Fund to buy a lot from them. You really didn't have to know that, but just in case you're asking why I may have gotten the lot cheaper also when, in fact, the value is actually twice the amount I bought it for. 

All right, moving on. When all the required documents were sent to Pag-IBIG Fund, the check for the Purchase of a Fully Developed Lot was then endorsed to the branch office on March 10, 2023. My parents picked it up a few days later when it was ready, and I have just started paying for the monthly amortization, which is basically feels like renting to own. To me, rather than renting a place, why not buy and pay in installments or terms, right? 

By the way, I applied for 25 years with 3 years re-pricing period. My cousin who took out a housing loan for a 20-year term pays her monthly amortization but adds extra to pay against the principal amount, which is something we can actually do if we have extra cash so that we can pay off the loan quicker. So, there it is, folks. My journey to get the Pag-IBIG Fund Housing Loan approved is done... Part 1, at least. 

Stay tuned for Part 2...

Tips to Increase Chances of Approval

The sun has set, and evening stars have started to appear. I can feel the night air as I close my window to begin my freelancing job. My work as a virtual assistant is exciting, and even though I get familiar with the tasks over time, sometimes I get nervous knowing some tasks wouldn't be easy. 

So, I've been tackling something I really don't like... but I have to. I keep telling myself, "THIS TOO SHALL PASS!" or "This is just temporary, and it'll be over soon." Human as I am, I get overcome with a feeling of helplessness, so I start feeling like shit again. I couldn't help feeling like the mountain of tasks was too big for me to conquer alone. As minutes turned into hours, my stress levels grew higher and higher. Does anyone else feel like that? What do you do to keep yourself going? 

Today, I'll share with you a few ways that help me finish my job. So, here are some tips for tackling work that you don't want to do:

1. Break it down: Sometimes tasks can feel overwhelming, so try breaking them down into smaller, more manageable pieces. This can make the task feel less daunting and help you get started.

2. Start with the hardest part: If there's a particularly challenging aspect of the work, try starting with that first while you're fresh and energized. Once you've completed the hardest part, the rest will likely feel easier.

3. Set a timer: Give yourself a set amount of time to work on the task - say 25 minutes - and then take a break. This technique, known as the Pomodoro Technique, can help you stay focused and motivated.

4. Reward yourself: Promise yourself a reward once you've completed the task - maybe it's your favorite snack or an episode of your favorite TV show. Having something to look forward to can help motivate you to finish.

Remember, everyone has tasks they don't want to do from time to time. But by breaking them down, starting strong, using techniques like timers, and rewarding yourself when you're done, you'll be able to power through and get things done!

The decade of freelancing has in fact prepared me for things like this. I have realized that no matter how daunting or difficult the tasks were, I could always find a way to complete them successfully if I stayed focused and kept motivated. Even though freelancing isn't always easy, knowing that you have the skill set to tackle any challenge head-on is an amazing feeling!

May your leap into the world of freelancing be also filled with great opportunities, exciting challenges, and endless possibilities. Good luck!

P.S. Are you an entrepreneur who is trying to make it big, but you don't have time to do everything yourself? You're probably feeling overwhelmed and stressed out because you're trying to do too much by yourself. 

That's where I come in! I can help take some of the load off your shoulders. By having me as your virtual assistant, you can delegate tasks that are taking up too much of your time and energy. I'm proud to say I'm an expert task ticker who can help keep you on track so you can focus on what's important - growing your business.

Delegate the tasks you dread to me, so you can finally have a break. ☀️

Let's schedule a quick call together, so we can assess how I can help lighten your load as your virtual assistant. 

I can take care of tasks that are draining your time and energy, so you can focus on other priorities. 

☎️ https://calendly.com/mariafranco-ph 📞

Are you looking for freelancing or virtual assistant work, but don't have a specific talent to offer? Don't worry! You can still find success in the freelancing and virtual assistant fields by having strong work ethics. From being on time to putting in extra effort, there are many ways to make yourself an attractive candidate when applying for freelance and virtual assistant jobs. Being passionate about what you do and displaying a positive attitude will also help employers recognize your value. Additionally, having good body language during interviews, being coachable, and prepared will show that you're serious about getting hired without a traditional talent.

Let's break it down:

1. Have Strong Work Ethics - Be on time and put in the extra effort. Never think just because it's not your job to do so and so and such and such, that you can't. Always show initiative. ALWAYS. When you have strong ethics, it shows that you are reliable, responsible, and committed to the job.

I admit that most people know that I'm perpetually late at events, and even as a student, I had been to the principal's office multiple times for tardiness. But that "Filipino time" won't work as an online worker. I'm happy to say that I've overcome this bad habit since becoming a freelancer or independent contractor. A strong work ethic also shows you have the self-discipline and work habits necessary for success in freelancing or virtual assistant roles. Without being present in an office environment, it is even more essential for remote workers to show their dedication to completing tasks on time and meeting deadlines.

2. Show Passion and Positive Attitude - Employers will recognize your value. If they don't, get a new employer. I'm kidding (but jokes are half-meant!) really. Being passionate about your work is important because it shows that you are invested and dedicated to producing the best results. When you're passionate, you tend to be more productive and creative and have a better attitude on the job.

Which is why having a passion for your work will help employers recognize your commitment and value as an employee or freelancer. Passion can give you the motivation and drive needed to succeed in freelancing or virtual assistant work without any specific talent requirement. It also makes it easier for employers to trust you with their projects and gives them confidence in knowing that their project is in good hands—something super important as a remote worker.

3. Prepare for Interviews - Have good body language, be coachable, and be prepared when you've scored an interview with a potential client or future employer. Communicate well, even if you don't have the perfect American accent. You're not auditioning for a role (unless it's a voice-over job). Your foreign clients really don't care about your accent as long as you convey your thoughts clearly. These are just as important online as they are in person. Make sure to maintain good posture and eye contact during the virtual meeting, smiling when appropriate.

One thing I've learned over the years (and from having interviewed people myself) is that clients appreciate when you ask questions that you may have about the project or job. It shows that you're invested and truly want to learn more about the opportunity. This can go a long way in impressing those on the other side of the screen!

4. Networking Opportunities – Reach out to freelancers or virtual assistants you know to get advice or referrals. Ask them questions about their experience working with potential employers or clients. This will help you build a network of professionals that can assist in your job search and may even result in an introduction to someone looking for the same skillset you possess.

I find that optimizing your LinkedIn profile, even if you don't have much experience is valuable because employers are now checking your online presence as a form of a background check. Having a profile that stands out is best but having one that has enough information validating you as someone "real" with connections is better than not having an online presence at all.

5. Invest in Yourself - While you're still applying for a job, go ahead and develop skills that can make you more attractive as a freelancer or virtual assistant. Learn how to use the newest software or marketing trends that could help your clients. You can also focus on developing soft skills such as communication and problem-solving. In other words, polish your English grammar, practice speed typing or transcription, try AI tools, and research what skills are trending or in demand.

These are just some of the ways you can make yourself more attractive when looking for virtual work. With a combination of persistence, creativity, and resilience, you'll be sure to succeed. Those who are truly committed to their aspirations will find a way to make them happen, but those who aren't will make excuses. Even if your certifications are just digital, they are still worth something because you've invested in learning and up-skilling. There are several free workshops you can attend from online coaches, but you can also sign up at Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare for unlimited learning potential!

6. Utilize Online Resources – There are many online resources available such as job boards, freelancing websites, etc., that can help you find freelancing/virtual assistant work without a specific talent. There are posts that even state "NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED," but you have to discern the real ones from the scams.

Be cautious, as some people take advantage of free work by having job hunters perform "trials" and "tests" that aren't even paid. If you do so, make sure you put watermarks on your output to protect yourself. It's also good to have someone do a "legit check" on a particular job posting and check about the business of your client or the company you're applying to.

7. Be Flexible and Adaptable – Look for freelance jobs outside your comfort zone. Don’t limit yourself to one particular area of expertise. This ties back to investing in yourself. If you're not a Math person and a particular task might require you to do some calculations, don't be afraid to try it. There are countless calculators, apps/programs, and formulas you can search for to do the job correctly. You must be resourceful and remember that Google is your best friend.

I am not a fan of the "fake it til you make it" attitude. I think that just gets you in trouble, and I feel bad for a client when they're misled by hiring someone competent, only to find out they are not. Time is gold, both for the employer and the employee. So, don't waste it. Be honest and transparent when you don't know how to do things but always be willing to learn. Like I always say, everything is possible if you are willing to learn new things.

8. Market Yourself – Showcase your work ethic by linking an online portfolio with samples of past projects. This will demonstrate the value you bring even without a specific skill set. If you've done some past writing, even if they're not professional, put it in a Google Drive folder.

Design a stellar-looking resume, even if you don't have a lot of bragging rights. Then add that with your best designs made via Canva or Photoshop, or even a simple graphic work to show that you can create these in your online folder. Whatever art you've done, be proud of it, especially if it's an original piece of work. Never forget that you always have to put your best foot forward to be chosen among the hundreds of aspiring candidates.

If you’re looking for freelancing advice or are interested in hiring a virtual assistant, please don’t hesitate to check out my profile. I am knowledgeable about the latest trends and technologies, as well as have an impressive portfolio of work that showcases my skillset from over a decade of remote work. With persistence, creativity, resilience, and self-investment, I can help your business succeed with freelancing/virtual assistant jobs. Contact me today or book a discovery call with me!