Building a Career Without Missing the Moments That Matter
Life as a mom and a working professional is full of meaningful moments, challenges, and triumphs. For Arlyn Mae Dela Cruz, becoming a Virtual Assistant was a choice rooted in passion, family, and finding a career path that allowed her to grow without sacrificing time with her loved ones.
Choosing a Path That Prioritizes Family
Arlyn’s inspiration to become a Virtual Assistant came from her role as a mother. She saw the opportunity to build a career without stepping foot in an office every day. Working from home means Arlyn can support her family and still be present for the moments that matter most — something she values deeply.
“I love that I don’t need to go to an office every day. I can work from home and still be with my family 24/7. That’s the biggest benefit for me.”
This flexibility and freedom are what drew her to the VA world, and they have made all the difference in her work-life balance.
Navigating Early Challenges With Grace
Like many who begin this journey, Arlyn started with limited knowledge of real estate, social media, and even the role of a Virtual Assistant itself. The beginning felt unfamiliar and daunting.
“Experience taught me so much. And with the supportive team at Summit guiding me, I grew more confident every day.”
Through hands-on experience, daily learning, and mentorship from the Summit team, Arlyn transitioned from uncertainty to confidence — gaining practical skills and self-assurance along the way.
What a Virtual Assistant’s Workday Looks Like
Every day, Arlyn starts by reviewing emails and checking on new transactions, known in the industry as “mutuals.” She focuses on the seller side of real estate support while her partner, Peter, manages the buy side.
Her core tasks include:
- Reviewing emails and new transaction details
- Managing the calendar and important deadlines
- Coordinating with escrow for necessary documentation
This routine ensures that all moving parts stay organized and on track. Behind each successful closing is the careful planning and attention to detail that Arlyn brings to her work.
Balancing Multiple Projects With Team Support
Handling multiple tasks is a team effort. Arlyn and her colleagues rely on clear communication, transparency, and alignment to stay efficient. By supporting one another and staying in sync, they manage workloads effectively and maintain a high standard of service.
A Defining Moment in the Role
Arlyn’s proudest moments come from knowing her work matters — not just professionally, but personally.
“I can support my family financially, work in my comfort zone, and keep learning without the stress that comes with corporate work.”
Her commitment to growth and family balance is one of her strongest motivators.
Memorable Client Experiences and Tough Challenges
One experience Arlyn cherishes is when a client recognized her efforts and treated her with the same trust as a long-term VA. That relationship grew into mentorship — a major milestone in her career.
Finding long-term clients was one of her biggest early challenges. Short engagements made consistency difficult, and it was discouraging at times. But Arlyn stayed persistent, upskilled continually, and leaned on her mentors for guidance.
“Eventually, I found a client who not only trusted me but also mentored me, helping me grow both professionally and personally.”
How Being a VA Changed Her Life
Becoming a Virtual Assistant transformed Arlyn’s everyday life. She gained control over her schedule, reduced stress, and found a way to contribute financially while being fully present with her daughter.
This balance has reshaped her concept of work and allowed her to enjoy both career success and meaningful family time.
Skills Developed Along the Way
Through her work, Arlyn developed key professional skills such as:
- Transparency in communication
- Clear progress updates
- Asking for guidance when needed
- Building trust with clients
These skills not only make her an effective Virtual Assistant but also strengthen her client relationships.
Advice for Aspiring Virtual Assistants
For those starting their VA journey, Arlyn offers heartfelt advice:
“View feedback as guidance rather than criticism. This mindset helps you develop your skills and build strong client relationships.”Her story is a testament to perseverance, continuous learning, and the rewarding possibilities that come with dedication and the right support.
