What do you do if you’ve found yourself desperately wanting the freedom to work how and when you want – but you don’t have the financial freedom to just walk away from your existing career? 

In fact, what if it’s impossible for you to invest any money in a new career right now? 

You’re not alone. In fact, I recently received this question from someone who wants to work for herself, but isn’t in a position to be able to leave her 9-5. She feels like she doesn’t have the money to do anything. 

Where should she start? 

If this is you…where should YOU start? 

Fortunately, there are absolutely steps you can take toward your goals – EVEN if the money isn’t lining up right now. In today’s post, I’ll share the first step you can take – one that’s proven itself extremely valuable for many a virtual assistant. 

If you’d rather watch than read, check out my video here! 

Ready for it? 

Talk about what you’re doing. 

Truly – I’m not being facetious. Tell others about what you’re doing. 

Tell others what you want to do and where you plan to go.

When you move to a new area and you’re looking for a particular service (e.g. dentist), what do you do? You ask others. You ask for recommendations and referrals. 

It can be the same way when you’re working – or looking to work – virtually. 

Tell your friends, your family, and your contacts that you’re thinking of working from home as an assistant. Ask if they know anyone who could use a virtual assistant. Let them know what your intentions are and see if anyone has recommendations! 

Perhaps you’ll work initially at a lower cost, or do some pro bono tasks to get experience – but regardless, you get your foot in the door. 

It’s often surprising how many connections people have. A friend of yours may not need a virtual assistant, but their brother Joe might have a friend who does. 

It’s often surprising how many connections people have.

Here is an important point: even if you don’t know exactly what you’re going to be doing – or how to do a specific task – let others know you’re thinking about it. You can figure it out. For example, if someone says, “Oh, I could use a bookkeeper – can you record my charges for a month trial and send them to me?” – you can absolutely learn the information you need to complete this task, even if you haven’t done extensive bookkeeping. In the information age, guidelines and help are just a click away. 

This is an easy step that does not require commitment. It’s just family members and friends or contacts. And if you begin to receive interest, then you can figure out what you can do for them and how to do it. The best part? You can build experience this way – and none of it costs any money. 

In conclusion, this seemingly small decision – to reach out to your connections – can reap far greater benefits than you may initially realize. If you want to get started on a freelance career but don’t have the money to do so, this is a free and easy way to get your foot in the door. 

And even if you’re volunteering – you’re building experience. You’re learning your trade. And the next time someone asks – you’ll be even more ready. 

There is always a step you can take toward your dreams. 

Are you willing to take it?