You are determined to land a perfect assignment, but you are unsure of how to properly present yourself in the virtual world.  Many questions float around your mind such as: What skills do I emphasize in my summary or letter of intent? How do I fulfill the companies  expectations? 

These are common questions that come to mind when anyone seeks an employment assignment both virtually and face to face.  Just as if you are scheduled for an in person interview, you want to properly present yourself to make a lasting impression.

Let's  review some virtual etiquette tips that you can utilize in landing a job and in meeting the companies expectations.

Step One:  Know your e-mail and business writing etiquette

When communicating, you must know your audience.  Whether you are writing to land the job or answering a customer's e-mail request, know the difference between a formal letter and an e-mail.  Most often, an executive doesn't have much time to read a lengthy e-mail.  Remember that an e-mail message has a tone.  You should refrain from using emoticons, symbols, and all capital letters.  Remember your who, what, where,how, when, and why.  Be concise and place the main idea of the message in the subject line. 

Step Two:  Review your telephone and business communication skills

Some virtual assignments may require customer service skills via the telephone and or a software application, such as Skype.  Always speak loudly and clearly so that the caller can understand you.  Be friendly and courteous. Never place the client on hold for more than two minutes. When you do not know the answer to a question, always be honest and tell the customer that "You do not know the answer, however, you will find out."  Finally, ask the company where you can reference their communication policies and or ethical code of conduct.  This will help you be an integral part of the organization from your physical location.

Step Three:  Know how to handle conflict

Always remain calm.  If at all possible, excuse yourself from the immediate situation.  For example, if you are on a phone call, kindly tell the customer that you will follow-up with them shortly. Know your limits, if you cannot handle the situation nor have the authority to do so, call your immediate contact. Always keep notes as if the problem escalates you are able to provide a detailed account. 

Step Four:  Do your homework

If you see a job that appeals to you, make sure you review the job request.  Be sure that your skills match what they require.  Then form your objective to match the assignment.  If there is a skill that you need to practice, there are plenty articles here that you may review to help you.  You can also briefly review the companies history to know well-known facts about who you will be completing the assignment  - Always Be Prepared!

Other Helpful Reminders:

A virtual assistant must be able to work independently and professionally.  They must be disciplined and have ample space to perform their work accurately and comfortably in a home setting.  Always remember that the company is relying on you to perform to their standards and  follow their beliefs and mission.

When performing a virtual assistant job, you should perform above and beyond what is expected, as this will help you with future jobs and allow you to master virtual etiquette.  Practice does make perfect. As you complete each job, you will make your virtual assistant portfolio stronger.

About the author:

Dana R. Arevalo, MBA is a featured lifestyle contributor for Yahoo! Voices. Extremely passionate about writing and blogging, Dana manages a fitness blog and is a contributing author for a second. Topics include, finance, business, fitness, beauty, anti-bullying, and POV. Professionally she has held both support and management positions in the healthcare environment.  You can visit her at: http://www.365daysofhealthandfitness.com