Working in a skill-based profession without continuous learning can slowly lead to stagnation. Without realizing it, we end up repeating the same tasks and lose the capacity to grow or adapt.
Let’s be clear: no one can train in everything, but doing nothing at all isn’t sustainable either.
Gaining experience is valuable. But simply repeating what you already know—without questioning how to improve it—turns your work into a routine, not a skill.
We all prefer working with someone who’s competent and committed to continuous learning. It’s reassuring, it builds trust, and from the client’s perspective, it demonstrates professionalism—especially when the work is complex or long-term.
So, when it comes to becoming a freelance secretary, is training really necessary?
Summary
- Freelance Secretary: A Growing Profession
- What Types of Training Exist?
- Why You Should Train Before Launching
- Is It Truly Essential?
1. Freelance Secretary: A Booming Career
The role of freelance secretary has gained momentum in recent years. With the rise of remote work, digital workflows, and outsourcing, more and more professionals are transitioning into this career—either by choice or as part of a broader career shift.
New trends and niche markets are emerging:
- Virtual assistance: Many businesses now hire remote secretarial help—handling emails, documents, travel planning, or calendar management entirely online.
- Industry-specific support: Sectors like construction, transport, or tech startups seek assistants with experience in their field.
- Specialized services: Transcription, translation, or bilingual support are increasingly in demand—especially in health, law, or international business.
Digital transformation has only accelerated the need for competent, multi-skilled freelance assistants.
2. What Training Paths Are Available?
There’s no official diploma required to become a freelance secretary, but several paths can strengthen your credibility and effectiveness.
a. General Training Options (Online or In-Person)
While there’s no “official” diploma for freelance secretarial work, many programs teach:
- Administrative skills
- Business operations
- Client management
- Tools and software
Examples include:
- BAC Pro – Business & Admin Support
- BTS – SME Management (BAC+2)
- BUT GEA or GACO (ex-DUT)
- Professional titles: Executive Assistant, Admin Assistant
- Private training programs or entrepreneurship bootcamps
Some of these are eligible for funding from Pôle Emploi, regional programs, or OPCOs (and occasionally through the CPF).
The quality of the trainer is just as important as the curriculum. Look for someone who has practical experience in freelance admin work.
b. Self-Learning and Autodidact Path
YouTube, blogs, podcasts, and ebooks are full of valuable content. But remember: information ≠ transformation.
Self-learning requires:
- Active participation
- Practice
- Critical thinking
- Feedback loops
Watching a video is not enough—you need to try, fail, ask questions, and repeat.
Ask yourself: Is my client supposed to pay me to learn on the job?
c. Coaching and Mentorship
Coaching can be a game-changer. Whether 1-on-1 or group-based, coaching often includes:
- Strategy and mindset
- Content creation and SEO
- Sales and prospecting
- Personalized support
Unlike a fixed program, coaching is flexible, focused on your strengths, and adapts to your goals.
Working with a certified coach can offer clarity, accountability, and tailored advice—especially valuable when you’re trying to make real progress quickly.
3. Why Training Before Launching Makes Sense
Freelance secretarial work requires more than it seems:
- Digital know-how
- Legal and regulatory awareness
- Business management skills
- Client-facing communication
- Multi-tasking and autonomy
A good training program can help you:
- Avoid beginner mistakes
- Understand how to position your services
- Gain confidence with tools and best practices
- Save time when you’re just starting out
Even if you’re naturally organized or experienced in admin roles, running a business is a different skillset.
4. Is Training Required to Become a Freelance Secretary?
No, training is not mandatory. You can launch without formal credentials.
But success depends on:
- Your ability to find the right information
- Your discipline to learn and apply it
- The time you give yourself to grow
Yes, you can find free content online. But will it help you build your first offer? Land your first client? Set your prices with confidence?
On the other hand, good training saves you months of trial and error.
And at Formassista, we’ve learned one thing above all:
We only truly remember and master what we’ve had to do ourselves.
Final Thought
Whether you choose structured training, self-study, or coaching—the key is to stay in learning mode.
Experience matters. But intentional experience backed by skill development matters more.
At Formassista, our training programs are built on these three principles:
- Do – Practical exercises to build confidence
- Understand – Clear explanations, real-life context
- Learn – Repetition, feedback, and mentorship
Because our mission isn’t just to inform—it’s to equip you to succeed.
