Imposter Syndrome as a VA: How to Overcome Self-Doubt and Show Up Confidently
Starting a Virtual Assistant business is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also be terrifying.
You might find yourself thinking…
❌ “What if a client asks me something I don’t know?”
❌ “Am I even good enough to do this?”
❌ “Am I really qualified enough to call myself a Virtual Assistant?”
❌ “What if I make a mistake and they regret hiring me?”
❌ “How do I compete with VAs who have years of experience?”
Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. This creeping self-doubt is called imposter syndrome, and it affects so many new (and even experienced!) VAs. Including me, I really suffered with this when I started out! But here’s the truth: you are capable, you do have skills, and you can build a successful VA business—even if your confidence is shaky right now.
In this post, we’ll dive into:
➤ What imposter syndrome actually is.
➤ Why it’s holding you back (and how to stop it).
➤ Practical steps to build confidence as a VA and start showing up with authority.
What is Imposter Syndrome?
Imposter syndrome is that nagging feeling that you don’t deserve your success or that you’ll be "found out" as a fraud. It’s not about actually lacking skills—it’s about lacking confidence.
You might feel like:
You’re not experienced enough to charge for your services.
Clients will realise you’re new and doubt your abilities.
You need another course or qualification before you can call yourself a VA.
But guess what? Even the most successful business owners have felt this way at some point. The key is learning how to manage imposter syndrome so it doesn’t stop you from moving forward.
Why Imposter Syndrome Holds You Back
Imposter syndrome isn’t just a feeling—it actively prevents you from building a successful business. Here’s how:
➤ It keeps you from putting yourself out there.
You second-guess every LinkedIn post, every pitch email, and every conversation—so you do nothing instead.
➤ You undercharge because you don’t think you’re “worth it.”
You tell yourself, “I’m new, so I can’t charge much.” But your time and expertise deserve to be valued—regardless of how long you’ve been a VA.
➤ You stay stuck in learning mode instead of taking action.
You convince yourself you need one more course before you can get started, when in reality, the best way to learn is by doing.
➤ You let fear of rejection stop you from finding clients.
You avoid pitching yourself because you’re scared of hearing “no”—but the truth is, every successful VA has heard “no” at some point. It’s just part of the process!
The good news? Imposter syndrome isn’t permanent. You can train your brain to push past self-doubt and start showing up with confidence.
5 Ways to Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a VA
1. Shift Your Focus to the Value You Provide
Instead of thinking, “Am I good enough?” ask yourself, “How can I help my clients?”
Clients don’t expect perfection—they want results. If you can save them time, reduce their stress, or help them make money, you are valuable.
✅ Action step: Write down 3 ways your skills could help a potential client today.
2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Other VAs
It’s easy to scroll through Instagram and think, “I’ll never be as successful as her.” But remember:
You’re seeing their highlight reel, not their struggles.
Every VA started where you are now.
Your journey is unique—own it!
✅ Action step: Unfollow accounts that make you doubt yourself and start engaging with VAs who inspire and uplift you.
3. Reframe “Lack of Experience” as a Strength
New VAs often think, “I don’t have enough experience.” But clients don’t just hire based on years in business—they hire based on skills, professionalism, and personality.
Have you managed inboxes in a 9-5 job? That’s email management.
Have you scheduled social media posts? That’s social media support.
Have you used spreadsheets? That’s data organisation.
Have you planned work socials? That’s event planning.
You already have skills clients need—it’s just about packaging them up.
✅ Action step: Write a list of ALL the admin, tech, and organisational tasks you’ve done in past jobs. This is your experience bank!
4. Get Comfortable with Learning on the Job
You don’t need to know everything before you start. Even experienced VAs learn new tools, software, and skills as they go. What matters is your willingness to figure things out.
Client asks you about a tool you’ve never used? Say: “I haven’t used it before, but I’m a quick learner and can get up to speed fast!”
✅ Action step: Next time you come across a tool you don’t know, spend 10 minutes Googling it and watching some videos on YouTube, instead of stressing about it. You’ll be surprised how much you can pick up!
5. Take Action—Even if It Feels Scary
The only way to build confidence is through action. Start before you feel ready.
Send that pitch.
Post that LinkedIn update.
Share your VA services with your network.
Confidence comes from doing—not waiting to feel “ready.”
✅ Action step: What’s one thing you’ve been putting off because of self-doubt? Do it today!
Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Seat at the Table
If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, know this:
➤ Your skills are valuable.
➤ You are allowed to take up space.
➤ You don’t need anyone’s permission to succeed.
Every successful VA has felt self-doubt at some point. The difference? They didn’t let it stop them. And neither should you.
