From Corporate to Home: My First 30 Days as a Virtual Assistant (Story Time)

Why I Left My Corporate Job

Let’s face it—the 9-to-5 life in the Philippines can be exhausting.

✅ Waking up before sunrise
✅ 3-hour roundtrip commute
✅ Stressful work culture
✅ Limited income growth
✅ Missing important family moments

I was doing admin work for a local company. I liked what I did, but I knew there had to be a better way to earn, grow, and live—without the daily stress.

That’s when I discovered the world of virtual assistants.

Day 1–7: Overwhelm, Excitement, and YouTube University 🎓

I officially quit my job on the last day of the month. The next day, I said, “Let’s do this!”

I had no clients. No VA experience. Just my laptop, a decent internet connection, and a strong desire to start.

Here’s what I did in my first week:

1. Watched free tutorials on YouTube (keywords: "how to become a virtual assistant Philippines")

2. Joined Facebook groups like Online Filipino Freelancers and FVA Support

3. Created accounts on Upwork, OnlineJobs.ph, and Fiverr

4. Updated my resume and created a short bio

5. Learned basic tools like Google Docs, Canva, and Trello

It felt like school again—but this time, I was learning for my own future.

Day 8–14: Job Hunting Begins (and Rejection Hurts)

I started applying to job posts on different platforms. I sent over 15 proposals during this week.

Most didn’t reply.
A few said, “We’re looking for someone with experience.”
One even ghosted me after the interview.

Did I cry a little? Maybe.

But I also learned:

✅ To improve my proposal writing (make it about the client, not me)
✅ To tailor my message for each job post
✅ That rejection is normal—and not a sign to give up

Day 15–21: My First Interview (and My First Client!)

This was the turning point.

I got an interview from a small US-based e-commerce store looking for a part-time general VA.

What I did right:

• I replied quickly and professionally

• I joined the Zoom call on time (tested my mic and background beforehand)

• I was honest: “I’m new to freelancing, but I’ve done similar tasks in my previous job.”

They gave me a 3-day trial.
I organized their Google Drive, cleaned up their inbox, and listed products on Shopify.

By Day 20, they said, “Welcome to the team!”

My first client! I earned my first $120 that week working 10 hours. Not bad for a beginner, right?

Day 22–30: Reality Check (and Routine Building)

I thought working from home would be chill—but guess what? It takes discipline.

I had to:

• Create a daily routine (work hours, breaks, family time)

• Use a task tracker like Notion to stay organized

• Manage distractions (yes, TikTok, I’m talking to you)

• Improve my communication with clients via Slack and email

• Learn to say “no” when needed—boundaries are important!

But even with the adjustments, I felt happier and more fulfilled.

I was working in my pajamas.
Having lunch with my family.
And building something that was mine.

Lessons I Learned in My First 30 Days

1. Start before you’re ready.

You’ll never feel “fully prepared.” Learn as you go.

2. There are lots of free resources.

You don’t have to spend ₱10,000 on a course right away. YouTube, blogs, and Facebook groups are goldmines.

3. Rejection is part of the process.

Don’t take it personally. Keep improving your profile and proposals.

4. Professionalism matters—even online.

Being respectful, punctual, and responsive goes a long way.

5. You’re more capable than you think.

If you’ve worked in an office, you already have transferable skills.

My Favorite Tools So Far (Beginner-Friendly)

🛠 Google Workspace – Docs, Sheets, Calendar
🛠 Canva – For simple graphics
🛠 Trello – Task management
🛠 Loom – Recording walkthroughs
🛠 Grammarly – Writing assistant
🛠 Clockify – Time tracking

All free, all beginner-friendly!

Final Thoughts: If I Can Do It, So Can You

The first 30 days as a virtual assistant won’t be perfect. You’ll face doubts, rejections, and technical glitches. But you’ll also feel empowered, excited, and hopeful for what’s ahead.

Transitioning from corporate to home-based work is more than a job change—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. For me, it was the best decision I ever made.

So if you’re thinking of taking the leap—do it. Prepare, learn, apply, and grow.

Your VA journey starts with one bold step.

Are you in your first 30 days too?
I’d love to hear your story and cheer you on!