Loani Rico – Social Media Manager, General Virtual Assistant

I’m Loani Rico, but everyone calls me Lou. A mom of two and a lovable pug, I graduated from Central Mindanao University with a degree in Physical Education. After passing the Licensure Examination for Teachers, I decided to take a leap of faith and explore a different path – one that offered more flexibility and comfort.

Never imagining myself as a remote worker, I hesitated at first. The idea of working from home seemed too good to be true, a stark contrast to the traditional 9-to-5 routine I had always envisioned. But life often takes unexpected turns, and mine was no exception.

My journey as a Virtual Assistant (VA) began with a small but significant step: a month-long stint as an Executive VA for a friend. Juggling my tasks and studies, I quickly learned that managing calendars, emails, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) was no easy feat. Yet, the challenges I faced ignited a spark within me, fueling my passion for this newfound career.

To further hone my skills, I dove headfirst into the world of freelancing, enrolling in courses and completing internships. With newfound confidence, I landed my first major client: a Singaporean YouTuber. Creating videos and thumbnails for them taught me the importance of effective communication and teamwork, essential qualities for any successful VA.

Subsequently, I worked as a General VA and Social Media Manager for a digital marketing agency. This role allowed me to broaden my skillset, encompassing social media strategy, content creation, performance analysis, SEO optimisation, graphic design, video editing, copywriting, and audience engagement.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned that understanding a company’s culture and work environment is crucial. A positive attitude, consistent effort, and accountability are essential ingredients for success. No matter how daunting a task may seem, a willingness to learn, ask questions, and take responsibility will always lead to positive outcomes.

As a mom, working from home has been a blessing. It allows me to be present for my children’s milestones, attend school events, and simply enjoy quality time with them. While there are challenges, such as maintaining a work-life balance and creating a productive workspace, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

I aspire to continue growing professionally and expanding my knowledge and skills. By doing so, I can enhance my abilities and contribute meaningfully to both my personal and professional life. My goal is to become a well-rounded VA who can adapt to various industries and client needs.

For a copy of Loani’s resume please click here.