What is a Virtual Assistant

What is a VA?

According to VAnetworking.com:

“A Virtual Assistant (VA) is a highly skilled, independent professional who remotely provides administrative, technical and/or creative business support services.”

*Source: The Virtual Assistant Social Network ~ VAnetworking.com

But what does that mean and is that all?

It means that a Virtual Assistant is an independent contractor, who provides administrative, technical and/or creative business support from his home office, using modern technology to deliver their services and communicate with their clients. Such technologies include emails, Skype, conference rooms and of course telephone calls.

But that’s not all VAs offer. Many virtual assistants also offer services that fall under other categories such as marketing, SEO, website developement or maintenace. In addition there a VAs who work with specific clients including real estate agents, law firms and writers.

Where can I find a Virtual Assistant?

Well the simplest way is to do some research through a search engine and see what is out there; What services are offered and what are the current rates. Furthermore you can look at classified-type services, where employers and employees solicit and hire on demand. Some services that are prefered by VAs are Elance and Guru.

Benefits of a Virtual Assistant or Why hire a Virtual Assistant?

The first and most important  benefit of a Virtual Assistant is that they are independent contractors, not employees. This means:

  • No employee related taxes, no insurance fees, no vacation, sick or holiday time to pay.
  • You pay only for the time the VA spent working on a specific task.
  • A Virtual Assistant is also a business owner and as such works to keep a good reputation and satisfied clients. So his work has to be of a high quality.
  • You do not need to provide any work space, equipment, supplies or training.

And why hire a Virtual Assistant?

Haven’t you noticed that small tasks here and there seem to take up all your time?

A Virtual Assistant can help you take the extra work off your hands, granting you spare time, to spend on expanding your business or simply doing more enjoyable things.

In addition, sometimes situations may arise where you may need some temporary help. You staff may me on vacation or you might need someone to take over certain tasks till you hire a full-time employee.