Virtual Assistant Businesses are the backbone of the Web 2.0 industry. Many “virtual” businesses without a central office cannot live without the assistance of a few virtual administrative helpers every now and then to help out with list building and prospect building. VA's contribute to an online business's core strength; provides independence to overworked business owners suddenly flooded with more business than they normally handle, and help business get organized after an overflow period by getting their records back in order.

As a home business owner, nothing has more advantages than a Virtual Assistant Business. You have low (or almost nothing) overhead costs, no travel time and great flexibility in balancing time for your work and family. Today's high-tech communication systems infrastructure makes working from home a sensible and practical option for both your clients and yourself.

However, like any other type of business, Virtual Assistant Businesses also require a good deal of organization, preparation, start-up details, registration and marketing.

Virtual Assistant Businesses also require better time management skills because their time is their own and have to be very attentive with operational, legal, financial and marketing concerns.

Starting a Virtual Assistant Business is difficult if you do not do your homework and prepare yourself. The following checklist covers the essential points you need to bear in mind to help you stay focused so that you can set up your own Virtual Assistant Business.

1. Develop a Business Plan

A business plan contains your mission statement and goals you hope to achieve. It is your road map towards success.

2. Choose the Right Business Structure

Sole Proprietorship, Partnership or a Corporation? One of the first decisions you have to make is to decide on the type of structure for your business.

3. Register your Business

Register your business name and secure all necessary business licenses and compliance requirements..

4. Obtain Insurance

Obtain and purchase insurance for your business, if necessary by local laws.

5. Purchase Office Supplies / Equipment

Basic office equipments like a computer, fax, printer, stationary supplies, and business cards are necessary for a professional VA – and pretty much required to be taken seriously by your potential clients.

6. Schedule Your Day

Even if you don't have clients yet, good habits start early. Choose specific times of the day to open your email and do your marketing so when you d get busy, these tasks won't ever overwhelm you.

7. Publish and Update Your Website Regularly

Virtual Assistant Businesses have no choice but to have a website and a clear domain name, and it needs to be organized clearly. Make sure you easily list how to be contacted and what services you offer.

8. Be Organized

Keep receipts for all of your office expenses and make sure that you are able to keep track of your invoices and projects without having to scramble for information if a client calls on the phone.

9. Organize Your Marketing Materials

If you send out printed materials such as brochures, letters, or other material, make sure it is always on hand so you can easily access it.

10. Always Persevere

Owning your own business requires you to be able to think on your own feet and be able to take a few knocks along the way as you learn what works best for you and your clients. Don't let the knocks smart to long – what doesn't close your virtual doors, makes you stronger. Always learn from your mistakes – acknowledge them, work to fix them, and continue to work to make your business grow.