What Is a Virtual Support and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Virtual support jobs assist clients with questions or problems they may have with a product or service. You find these positions in a variety of industries, including business, insurance, retail, and technology. As a virtual support professional, you work from home or another remote location with internet accessibility. You provide support to customers who contact them through online portals such as live chat applications, email, or over the phone. Your duties and responsibilities vary, depending on the company and industry. For example, remote retail support staff answer questions about products, assist with completing orders, and record complaints from customers. IT support specialists help software and hardware customers set up their products or troubleshoot when problems arise.

The qualifications that you need to work as a virtual support professional include excellent communication skills and knowledge of your employer’s products, services, and policies. Customer service experience is also helpful. Most positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Different industries may have additional requirements for hiring new staff. Retailers often prefer candidates who have held previous retail jobs. IT support professionals must be proficient in the programs or applications used by the company and know how to troubleshoot common issues. Organizations that have a large customer base that speaks a language other than English seek candidates who are fluent in their customer's native language.