The virtual assistant world is booming. With remote work opportunities on the rise and businesses going digital, there’s never been a better time to dive into virtual assistant jobs.
The global market was valued at $15.7 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to grow at a 30.6% CAGR to $30.7 billion by 2025
But here comes the big question: Should you join a virtual assistant agency, or go solo as a freelancer?
Spoiler: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
This blog breaks it down, the pros and cons of both paths, so you can make the best choice for your lifestyle, career goals, and work style.
What Does it Mean to Join a Virtual Assistant Agency?
If you’re new to the game, joining a virtual assistant agency means becoming part of a team or platform that connects VAs with clients. Think of it as a middleman that helps you land work, manage relationships, and sometimes even upskill.
The agency role is to screen clients and VAs, handle contracts, and often support your growth with feedback, training, and resources.
The Benefits of Joining a Virtual Assistant Agency
Here are some major advantages if you choose to join a virtual assistant agency:
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Easier access to clients
You won’t need to hustle for leads on Upwork or LinkedIn. Agencies bring the work to you. Platforms like Virtual Latinos pre-vet clients and match you based on your skills.
One of the top challenges for freelancers is getting enough consistent work. According to the Payoneer Global Freelancer Income Report, 28% of freelancers listed difficulty getting enough work as their biggest struggle, underscoring the unpredictability of client acquisition in solo freelancing.
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Admin support and structure
One of the biggest advantages of joining a virtual assistant agency is the relief from time-consuming admin work. Agencies handle the heavy lifting, think payments, client onboarding, project scoping, and scheduling, so you can focus purely on delivering great work.
That’s no small benefit. According to Clockify, freelancers spend just 59% of their time on billable tasks, with the remaining 40%+ consumed by unpaid activities like invoicing, communication, and coordination.
For solo VAs, this administrative load can seriously limit income and increase stress, making agency support a smart way to reclaim your time.
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Professional development
One of the most valuable perks of joining a VA agency is access to training and upskilling programs. These aren’t just career bonuses—they’re income boosters. According to a Bankrate report, 48% of U.S. workers who pursued upskilling saw an increase in pay, while 28% were able to change careers entirely.
For virtual assistants, improving communication, tech, and project management skills through an agency’s resources can directly translate into higher earning potential and more flexible career options.
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Built-in community
Working remotely doesn’t mean being alone. One of the underrated benefits of joining a virtual assistant agency is the built-in sense of community.
Many agencies offer group chats, virtual coworking sessions, and team meetups, creating a space where you can connect, share advice, and build lasting relationships.
In fact, research by Buffer’s State of Remote Work report found that loneliness is one of the top challenges remote workers face, reported by 20% of respondents.
Having a support system in place isn’t just good for morale, it can boost engagement, reduce burnout, and improve performance. Agencies help bridge that isolation gap and give you a team, even from afar.
Going solo as a Virtual Assistant: The Pros and the Cons
Becoming an independent virtual assistant puts you fully in charge. You build your brand, choose your clients, and control your work style.
For many experienced VAs, going solo is a natural next step. But with great freedom comes great responsibility, and risk. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to expect when you step into freelancing full-time.
The Pros of Going Solo
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Full control of your brand and services
When you freelance independently, you’re not just a virtual professional, you’re also a business owner. You choose the services you offer, whether it’s calendar management, social media support, real estate admin, or niche tech assistance.
Want to work exclusively with wellness coaches? You can. Want to offer bundled retainer packages? Go for it.
This creative and strategic control is especially appealing for those looking to carve out a niche or establish authority in a specific industry. You can tailor your services and brand voice to attract your ideal client.
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Higher income potential
One of the most compelling reasons VAs choose to go solo is the opportunity to earn more. Unlike agency settings, where commissions or standardized rates apply, independent virtual assistants set their own prices and keep 100% of their income.
This potential for higher earnings is more than just theory. According to a 2021 Payoneer study, freelancers globally experienced a significant surge in both demand and pay, especially during the pandemic.
The average hourly rate rose to $28, up from $21 in prior years, demonstrating that skilled freelancers can command premium pricing when they market themselves well and deliver quality work.
If you establish long-term client relationships, specialize in in-demand services, and consistently upskill, your income potential as a solo VA can far exceed what’s available in structured agency settings.
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Total freedom and flexibility
As a solo VA, you decide your work hours, your workload, your communication style, and even your timezone preferences. Want to take Fridays off? Start at noon? Work with clients in Australia from your home in Mexico? You absolutely can.
This freedom supports better work-life balance, travel flexibility, and the ability to pivot your business model as your goals evolve. You’re in the driver’s seat.
The Cons of Going solo
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Finding clients is Hard Work
Perhaps the biggest hurdle of going solo is client acquisition. Without an agency feeding you leads, you’re responsible for finding and securing all your work.
This includes marketing your services, pitching to clients, building a personal brand, and maintaining a consistent presence on platforms like LinkedIn and job boards.
To stand out in a competitive market, upskilling is key. According to Bankrate’s Upskilling Report, those who actively pursue new skills are more likely to land work, grow professionally, and command better pay. From communication to tech proficiency, developing in-demand skills makes you more attractive to prospective clients and improves your ability to win consistent, high-quality contracts as a solo VA.
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Inconsistent income
Freelancers often face the dreaded “feast or famine” cycle. Without retainer contracts or a steady stream of client referrals, income can fluctuate dramatically month to month. It may take months to establish stable recurring revenue, and even long-term clients may pause or scale back.
This inconsistency requires solid financial planning and the mental resilience to weather slower seasons without panic.
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You’re the entire business
When you go solo, you’re not just the service provider. You’re also the:
- Salesperson
- Marketer
- Bookkeeper
- Project Manager
- Customer Support
- IT Department
This can be empowering—but it’s also time-consuming.
Key Differences Between Agency Life and Solo VA Work
| Category | Join a virtual assistant agency | Go solo as a freelancer |
| Client Acquisition | Provided for you | You find your own clients |
| Income | Commission or fixed rates | Full rate, but variable income |
| Admin Support | Agency handles logistics | You handle everything |
| Training & Community | Usually provided | Self-directed |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Total control |
Frequently Asked Questions About Joining a Virtual Assistant Agency
How do I join a virtual assistant agency?
Most agencies have an application process. For example, you can apply to Virtual Latinos by submitting your profile and going through an interview.
How to find virtual assistant jobs if I go solo?
Start by networking on LinkedIn, joining Facebook groups, creating a portfolio site, and pitching directly to small businesses.
Are virtual assistant jobs in demand?
Yes! As businesses embrace remote work and outsourcing, demand has soared. The global market is expected to reach $30.7B by 2025, growing at 30.6%.
Should You Join a Virtual Assistant Agency or Go Solo?
Here’s the real talk:
- If you’re new, want steady work, and prefer structure—join a virtual assistant agency.
- If you’re experienced, love freedom, and don’t mind doing it all—go solo.
Some VAs start in agencies and later go solo. Others mix both worlds. There’s no wrong path, just the one that fits you.
Ready to explore remote work opportunities?
Whether you’re testing the waters or ready to dive in, now’s the time to start. Virtual assistant jobs are growing, and there’s room for every kind of talent.
If you’re looking for mentorship, community, and high-quality clients, Virtual Latinos is one of the best places to join a virtual assistant agency.
Apply now and grow your career with Virtual Latinos
