OAT 240 - Creating and Managing the Virtual Office

Credits: 3
Instructional Contact Hours: 3

Covers all aspects of creating an office for a virtual specialist. Includes developing an individual business plan, creating a marketing plan incorporating a social media marketing strategy, establishing a fee rate range, identifying software requirements, planning a company website, legal requirements, and negotiating contracts.

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 45 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: None
Pass/NoCredit: Yes

Outcomes and Objectives 1. Examine the virtual assistant industry.

A. Define the virtual assistant
B. Identify client benefits
C. Identify skills required
D. Identify services offered

2. Create a business plan that will establish a mission, goals, and objectives.

A. Write a business plan
B. Conduct market research
C. Research marketing strategies
D. Determine pay rates
E. Determine a business name

3. Use appropriate software and web-based applications for the virtual assistant industry.

A. Use web presence technology
B. Identify software appropriate for job tasks
C. Use current and emerging technologies to effectively create and manage documents and handle multiple priorities

4. Demonstrate preparation for the virtual assistant industry job market.

A. Research specialty areas including real estate, legal, etc.
B. Research special areas including bookkeeping, document processing, etc.
C. Identify appropriate strategies to secure employment, retain a job, and/or advance a career.