Platforms That Connect Virtual Assistants with Clients

One of the most common questions among aspiring and even experienced virtual assistants (VAs) is:

“Where can I find clients consistently?”

Fortunately, the rise of remote work has led to the development of numerous online platforms that connect virtual assistants with clients from all over the world. These platforms help bridge the gap between VAs and entrepreneurs, startups, solopreneurs, coaches, and large businesses in need of remote support.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to scale your business, using these platforms strategically can help you find quality clients, build your portfolio, and generate stable income.

In this article, we’ll explore the top platforms—both general and VA-specific—where you can find remote opportunities, along with tips on how to succeed on each one.

1. Upwork

Overview:

Upwork is one of the largest freelance marketplaces in the world. It offers opportunities for all types of freelancers, including virtual assistants. Clients post jobs, and freelancers submit proposals to get hired.

Key Features:

• Categories: Admin support, customer service, project management, and more
• Payment protection with hourly or fixed-price contracts
• Long-term and short-term projects
• A vast client base across different industries

Tips to Succeed:

• Create a strong, keyword-rich profile
• Take Upwork’s skill tests to improve visibility
• Start with smaller projects to build your reputation
• Write personalized proposals focusing on client needs

Ideal for: Beginners and experienced VAs looking for global clients.

2. Fiverr

Overview:

Fiverr allows freelancers to offer services as “gigs.” It’s a platform where clients search for pre-defined services instead of posting jobs.

Key Features:

• You set your own packages and pricing
• Great for productized services (e.g., “I will manage your inbox for 5 hours”)
• Option to upsell with extras and faster delivery
• Growing business tools for analytics and marketing

Tips to Succeed:

• Create eye-catching gig images and clear descriptions
• Use relevant keywords in your titles and tags
• Offer competitive pricing initially to build reviews
• Promote your gigs on social media or LinkedIn

Ideal for: VAs who want to offer repeatable tasks like data entry, calendar management, or social media scheduling.

3. Belay

Overview:

Belay is a premium VA agency based in the U.S. that connects highly qualified virtual assistants with business owners and executives. Unlike marketplaces, Belay handles client matching and project management.

Key Features:

• VAs are carefully vetted through a multi-step application process
• Work mostly with U.S.-based clients
• Offers long-term, part-time contracts
• Clients are pre-qualified

Tips to Succeed:

• Demonstrate excellent communication and time management
• Highlight previous professional experience
• Be ready for interviews and test assignments
• Have a reliable internet connection and a professional home setup

Ideal for: Experienced VAs looking for long-term, high-quality clients and structured support.

4. Time Etc

Overview:

Time Etc is a virtual assistant agency that matches clients with pre-screened VAs. The company works with professionals who have at least 5–8 years of experience in administrative or executive roles.

Key Features:

• Work remotely with consistent clients
• Tasks include research, inbox management, scheduling, and more
• You’re paid by the hour, and Time Etc handles client acquisition

Tips to Succeed:

• Emphasize corporate experience and attention to detail
• Apply with a well-written resume and cover letter
• Be open to a variety of admin tasks
• Show initiative and professionalism during screening

Ideal for: Mid-level professionals transitioning into virtual assistant work.

5. Boldly (formerly Worldwide101)

Overview:

Boldly is another premium subscription staffing company that hires VAs as W2 employees (in the U.S. and U.K.) and assigns them to clients based on skills and availability.

Key Features:

• Higher-than-average pay ($20–$25/hour)
• Work with one or more clients long-term
• Roles may include executive assistance, project management, or marketing support
• Offers paid time off and flexibility

Tips to Succeed:

• Have a strong professional background
• Commit to at least 20 hours/week
• Show initiative and reliability
• Expect a rigorous hiring process

Ideal for: Experienced VAs who want a stable role with premium clients and flexible hours.

6. PeoplePerHour

Overview:

PeoplePerHour is a U.K.-based platform that caters to freelancers in categories such as virtual assistance, design, and marketing.

Key Features:

• Project-based and hourly jobs
• Clients can invite you directly based on your profile
• Payments go through an escrow system
• Option to post “Offers” (like gigs)

Tips to Succeed:

• Polish your profile with strong testimonials and samples
• Browse and apply for posted jobs daily
• Use detailed proposals tailored to each client
• Respond quickly to invitations

Ideal for: VAs who want to work with European or U.K. clients.

7. Freelancer.com

Overview:

Freelancer.com is a global marketplace similar to Upwork but with a bidding system. It includes a wide variety of tasks, including admin support, data entry, transcription, and virtual assistant work.

Key Features:

• Competitive bidding on client projects
• Variety of job types and industries
• Chat and milestone-based payments
• Lower fees than some platforms for beginners

Tips to Succeed:

• Keep your bids realistic and value-focused
• Highlight relevant experience and clear deliverables
• Follow up with clients after submitting proposals
• Focus on client satisfaction to build ratings

Ideal for: Entry-level VAs willing to start small and build credibility.

8. TaskBullet

Overview:

TaskBullet is a virtual assistant service provider that hires VAs to work with clients mainly in the U.S. and Australia. Instead of hourly jobs, they sell “VA buckets” to clients—prepaid hours they can use as needed.

Key Features:

• Long-term VA-client matching
• Clients get dedicated assistants
• You’ll work within set hours or tasks
• Remote and team-supported environment

Tips to Succeed:

• Be flexible and adaptable to client needs
• Show experience in managing multiple admin tasks
• Be consistent in communication
• Follow established systems and processes

Ideal for: VAs who want structured support but still prefer remote flexibility.

9. OnlineJobs.ph (For Filipino VAs)

Overview:

This is one of the largest platforms connecting Filipino virtual assistants with international clients, especially from the U.S. It operates on a subscription model where clients post jobs and reach out to VAs directly.

Key Features:

• Hundreds of job postings daily
• No commission or platform fees for VAs
• Full-time, part-time, and project-based work
• Direct communication with employers

Tips to Succeed:

• Complete your profile with skills, experience, and test results
• Be proactive—apply to relevant jobs daily
• Set clear salary expectations
• Respond to messages quickly

Ideal for: VAs based in the Philippines seeking stable international remote work.

10. Social Media & Networking Platforms

While not traditional “job platforms,” many VAs find high-quality clients through LinkedIn, Instagram, and even Twitter.

How to Use Social Platforms:

• Share value-based content related to VA services
• Optimize your bio to say who you help and how
• Use hashtags like #virtualassistant, #remotework, #VAforhire
• DM potential clients with personalized messages
• Join professional groups and engage in comments

Ideal for: VAs who want to attract clients organically by building a personal brand.

Final Tips for Success on Any Platform

Regardless of which platform you choose, the following strategies will help you land clients and build a reputation:

✅ Optimize Your Profile:

• Use clear headlines, service descriptions, and results-driven language
• Add a friendly, high-quality profile photo
• Include testimonials, portfolio samples, or case studies if possible

✅ Write Tailored Proposals:

• Don’t use copy-paste templates
• Reference the client’s business or problem
• Offer a solution and outline how you can help

✅ Be Consistent:

• Apply to multiple jobs each week
• Stay professional in all interactions
• Follow up when appropriate
• Ask for reviews and referrals after successful projects

Final Thoughts: Choose the Platform That Fits Your Goals

There’s no single “best” platform for virtual assistants—it all depends on your experience, services, availability, and the kind of clients you want to work with.

Let’s recap some of the top platforms:

• Upwork and Fiverr: Great for beginners and productized services
• Belay, Boldly, and Time Etc: Ideal for experienced VAs seeking high-end clients
• PeoplePerHour and Freelancer.com: Good for a variety of global jobs
• OnlineJobs.ph: Best for VAs in the Philippines
• LinkedIn and Instagram: Excellent for personal branding and direct client outreach

Start with one or two platforms and focus on building credibility. With consistency, professionalism, and the right strategy, you’ll start attracting the clients who value what you do.