You Don’t Need a Certification!
I’ve noticed a lot of new Virtual Assistant Certification training programs on the market lately and just wanted to point something out that you may not be aware of.
The Virtual Assistant Industry is
not a standardized industry.
It does not have a committee or governing body that has certified specific standards that Virtual Assistants must meet to be considered certified.
There are no true “Virtual Assistant Certification”.
There is NO Industry Approved Accreditation.
It’s not like the Project Management or IT Industries where there are governing bodies and true certification programs.
Now, I know there are a few organizations that offer certifications, just be aware of what they mean by certified.
Ask questions like “What do you need to do to obtain the certification and what do you get from it?“
There’s a big difference between completion and certification.
A completion certificate shows that you succesfully completed a training program.
A certification means you’ve passed a test given by an accredited body. There isn’t one for the VA Industry.
It’s a marketing ploy – don’t fall for it.
Do your research before investing in any programs.
Find out how long they’ve been in the industry, how long they’ve been in business and if they’re selling their own stuff or if they bought it from someone else (PLR) and are just putting their name on it.
Ask around about their programs or ask for testimonials.
Do they have a refund policy? If so, what is it?
Bottom line is you don’t need to be certified to be a successful Virtual Assistant and be sure you understand what you’re getting for your investment of both time and money.
I’d love to here from you.
All comments + questions are welcome.
If you know someone who might benefit from this information, please share. You can use the share buttons below the post.
HERE ARE A FEW RELATED BLOG POSTS THAT MIGHT BE OF INTEREST:
- Setting Up Your VA Business + What You Need To Know
- 5 Must Haves When Starting a VA Business
- Starting a VA Business – Where Do I Start
- VA Training + Coaching What To Watch Out For
Oh… and each week I host an Open Mic Session in my VA Tips & Tricks Facebook Group where I deep dive specific topics & answer your questions, be sure to join us for the next one – it’s FREE! Go to http://bit.ly/vatipstricks.
Thanks for reading – Susan
Don’t forget to leave a comment if you found this information useful – I’d love to hear from you!
Susan Mershon started The Techie Mentor ™ in 2013 to teach Virtual Assistants the systems + skills they need to start + run a successful business. With a strong base in project management, Susan brings her love of systems and teaching to offer training and mentoring to new and experienced Virtual Assistants. She’s taught thousands of students her unique system that teaches the skills clients are looking for + the systems you need to offer your knowledge as a service professional. This proven system will help you stand out as a professional, earn you more money and free up your precious time.
What about the International Virtual Assistants Association, IVAA? – ivaa.org/about
They’re all about helping Virtual Assistants and to my knowledge do not offer a certification. Even if they did, it is not accredited since the industry is not.
Some great points there Susan, thanks for sharing.
Thank you for taking the time to read and comment – much appreciated 😉