Struggling to Find Clients as a Virtual Assistant? Here’s How to Change That

Finding clients is one thing. But finding premium clients—the kind who value your expertise, pay $50-$100 per hour upfront, and commit to an ongoing monthly retainer—is an entirely different challenge.

Many virtual assistants struggle to land these high-quality clients, not because they lack skills, but because they’re looking in the wrong places or aren’t positioning themselves correctly. If you’ve been relying on platforms that attract budget-conscious clients, you may have already realized that these sites aren’t designed to help you build long-term, sustainable income.

If you’re ready to step into a space where clients respect your time, pay you what you’re worth, and see you as an investment rather than an expense, let’s dive into three key strategies you need to implement right away.

1. Connect With Potential Clients Authentically

Many virtual assistants struggle to land premium clients because they focus too much on selling instead of building genuine relationships. Premium clients aren’t just looking for another contractor—they want a trusted partner who understands their business and can provide real solutions.

Instead of constantly “pitching” your services, focus on relationship-building first.

Ways to Connect Authentically:

Engage in Online Communities – Participate in industry-related Facebook groups, LinkedIn discussions, or mastermind groups where your ideal clients are already networking. Offer value instead of just selling your services.

Provide Insightful Content – Share your expertise by posting valuable tips, case studies, or behind-the-scenes looks at your work. Clients want to see your knowledge in action before they hire you.

Leverage Warm Introductions – Reach out to people in your network and ask if they know any business owners who could benefit from your services. Referrals from trusted sources carry more weight than cold pitches.

Building genuine relationships takes time, but premium clients are more likely to invest in someone they know, trust, and have seen in action.

2. Be Ready Before You Start Looking for Clients

Too many VAs jump into the client search without getting the fundamentals in place first. If you’re reaching out to potential clients but don’t have clear systems for onboarding, contracts, or how you’ll actually work with them, you risk looking unprofessional—and premium clients won’t take you seriously.

Before you start searching for clients, make sure you have:

A Simple Website – Even a basic site that outlines your services, testimonials, and portfolio can go a long way in establishing trust and professionalism.

Proposal and Contract Templates – These documents not only clarify your services and fees but also protect both you and your clients. Having a clear, professional proposal and contract can differentiate you from competitors.

Client Onboarding System – Establish a seamless process for welcoming new clients, setting expectations, and managing projects. Whether it’s an automated system or a personal touch, ensure you have a reliable way to get started smoothly with every new client.

Being ready means you’re not just chasing clients—you’re prepared to deliver premium service from the very first interaction.

3. Be Realistic: The Process is Ongoing and Takes Time

One of the biggest mistakes virtual assistants make is expecting quick results. They search for shortcuts—"hacks" or "secrets"—that will magically bring in high-paying clients overnight. But premium clients don’t come from shortcuts; they come from consistency, credibility, and time.

Reality Check:

There are no tips, tricks, or hacks that replace doing the daily work. Success comes from showing up, putting in effort, and staying visible.

You won’t build a full roster of premium clients in a month. It takes time to establish yourself and gain trust.

Client acquisition is never “done.” Even when your calendar is full, you need to keep marketing, networking, and refining your processes.

The key to building a business that attracts premium clients isn’t about finding a magic formula—it’s about committing to the work every single day.

There’s More to Finding Premium Clients—Are You Ready?

These three strategies are just the beginning of what it takes to attract high-paying, long-term clients. If you want the full list of my 10 Best Practices for Finding Premium Clients, grab my free guide below.

[ DOWNLOAD NOW: 10 Best Practices for Finding Premium Clients ]

This resource is packed with actionable strategies that will help you get in front of premium clients, position yourself as a professional, and land long-term, high-paying contracts. If you’re tired of the struggle and ready to work smarter—not harder—this guide is for you.

Click here to get access!

Learn more about me and how you can work with me.

Leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts.

I appreciate your interest.

Mia Borja

Mama Bear ♡ Chief of Staff ✧ Online Business Manager ✧ Executive Virtual Assistant

https://miaborja.com
Previous
Previous

Ready, Set, Grow: How I'm Building a Community for Virtual Assistants

Next
Next

Why I Offer Prepaid Retainers Instead of Packages