Shella Mariz Buico – General Virtual Assistant

Hello! I’m Shella Mariz Buico, and you can call me Ella. I graduated with a degree in accountancy from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. However, I decided to explore different opportunities outside my chosen field.

Before transitioning to permanent remote work, I worked as a customer service representative for a US Telco account from 2018 to 2020. During this time, I developed solid problem-solving skills, handled customer enquiries, and approached challenging situations with patience and empathy. When the company ended its hotel relocation programme, I had to return to on-site work. This caused concern, as I lived with my grandmother and two siblings, one of whom had a weak respiratory system, making the commute and exposure to public spaces worrisome.

In early 2021, one of my former BPO team leads who had transitioned to the VA industry reached out and offered me the chance to work from home as a virtual assistant. At first, I was hesitant because it was a completely new industry and environment for me. Aside from the skills I had gained from my BPO experience, I didn’t feel like I had much else to offer at that point. Thankfully, my first client was incredibly kind and patient, guiding me through the processes his company required. This allowed me to apply the skills I already had while learning new ones along the way.

As I took on more clients and responsibilities, I gradually expanded my skill set. I became proficient in managing CRM tools like GoHighLevel, handling administrative tasks, data entry, and email management. These tasks required attention to detail, and I quickly realised how crucial accuracy is in maintaining smooth operations for clients. I also developed strong scheduling and coordination skills, ensuring that calendars were always up to date and conflicts were avoided.

In addition to the technical skills I gained, working across different industries exposed me to new ways of thinking and problem-solving. I had to adapt to various client expectations, platforms, and working styles, which taught me the importance of being adaptable and resilient. Through all these experiences, I’ve learned that the key to being a successful virtual assistant is to stay curious and open to learning. Whether it’s mastering new tools, improving communication, or finding more efficient ways to manage tasks, every role has pushed me to grow.

Working from home has given me the flexibility to balance my work and personal life much better. I can focus on my career without stressing about long commutes or the health risks of a regular office. It also allows me to set up a comfortable workspace where I can be productive while staying close to my loved ones, including my pets.

I’m excited to keep learning and taking on new challenges that help me grow both in my career and personally. My goal is to build lasting relationships and keep improving my skills so I can better support my clients’ success.

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