Mae Libre – General VA, Bookkeeper
Hello there! I’m Mae Libre, hailing from the Philippines, and I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Silliman University.
In 2020, while browsing through Facebook and TikTok, I came across posts about people sharing their experiences as virtual assistants. Intrigued, I tried to understand what being a virtual assistant meant, thinking it required technical skills and the ability to work from home. But being in my third year of college, I didn’t take it seriously. Focusing instead on my studies.
In 2021, I noticed more posts about virtual assistants from the people I know on Facebook and read how the role changed people’s lives. Despite my curiosity, I was too shy to ask for advice. Instead, I continued researching, discovering avenues through which virtual assistants found clients. Yet, upon exploring these platforms and seeing the job requirements, I realised the depth of qualifications demanded far exceeded my current capabilities—I lacked the requisite experience. Disheartened, I convinced myself it wasn’t meant for me, resolving to concentrate on my academic pursuits and obtain my degree.
Then, in 2022, a Facebook friend posted a call for a virtual assistant. Though tempted to disregard it, the opportunity reignited my aspiration. Despite my lack of experience, I mustered the courage to pursue it, reasoning that there was no harm in trying. I reached out to my friend, and submitted an application letter and resume, albeit unsure of how to tailor my credentials to the role. I reflected on my internship experience, primarily administrative tasks involving file management, and cautiously included it in my resume, opting for transparency over embellishment.
Upon sending my application, I received a prompt response from the hiring manager expressing interest in interviewing me. Nervous yet determined, I underwent an English and typing assessment, successfully clearing the initial hurdles. The invitation for a final interview filled me with both excitement and apprehension. However, I persevered, and to my delight, I was offered the position!
And thus, my journey as a virtual assistant began.
Despite my initial lack of experience, the virtual assistance agency provided me with training and knowledge to better support my clients. I never imagined I could excel in such a role given my limited background. My first position was as a Construction Virtual Assistant for a solar and roofing company based in Hawaii, where I became proficient in CRM systems like Zoho CRM where I gained experience in processing solar utility applications, creating PTO packets, managing warranties for roofing, and tracking cost allocations. I managed to expedite solar application processing, achieving a milestone as my client permitted 60 solars to operate in a month, a significant improvement from the previous timeframe. I have also experience in organising project schedules, sending documents for signature using PandaDocs, and uploading employees’ hours via Connecteams. In addition, I have also experience utilizing Acculynx, CompanyCam, and SumoQuote. I also mastered Intuit QuickBooks for financial management and effectively utilized Google Calendar, Google Sheets, and Google Docs for organizational efficiency and collaboration.
The following year, I transitioned to the role of Real Estate Virtual Assistant and Bookkeeper with a reputable company in the United States. Initially hesitant due to my aversion to math, the agency assured me of adequate training to perform effectively. Now, with a year of experience under my belt, I proudly consider myself an experienced real estate bookkeeper, proficient in recording transactions, processing payments, managing accounting tasks in Propertyware, Rentvine, and QuickBooks, generating financial reports, reconciling records, and maintaining accurate spreadsheets and online records.
As a virtual assistant, I prioritise clear communication, reliability, and confidentiality. I am dedicated to providing prompt and efficient assistance, managing tasks effectively, and supporting businesses in achieving their goals.
For a copy of Mae’s resume please click here.