What is a Virtual Assistant?

How do I use a Virtual Assistant?

Why should I use a Virtual Assistant instead of a temp?

How do I get the work to my VA?

What are the benefits of hiring a VA?

 

What is a Virtual Assistant?

A VA is an independent contractor who provides administrative support, generally outside of the corporate “office” environment.  A VA can provide help when you need them most without having to pay for office space, vacation time, sick pay, or other benefits. A VA is a Business Owner who can be your “Business Partner” and is not an employee.  A VA provides extra help at times when you need it most freeing up your time to concentrate on your business at hand.

How do I use a Virtual Assistant?

Since your VA is not present at your location, communication is the most important part of dealing with a VA.  It is important to be clear and concise in your expectations for the work to be done.  However, you do not need to micromanage your VA.  A VA has a lot of experience in what they do and does not require a lot of supervision.  You are paying for their expertise.

Why should I use a Virtual Assistant instead of a temp?

Using a VA allows you to pay only for the services you need.  There is no training involved and you avoid the expensive hiring costs associated with employees.  Once you build a rapport with a particular VA you can have the same person work with you on a regular basis instead of requesting a temp from an agency and getting someone different each time.

How do I get the work to my VA?

Most of the time communication is done through phone, fax, email, downloads from a website, regular mail or courier. If location is convenient, then personal delivery and pickup are also valid methods of getting the work to your VA.

What are the benefits of hiring a VA?

FEATURE	BENEFIT
VAs have qualifications that are needed to get the job done!  Most VAs have been in their field for many years	The client doesn’t need to spend valuable time and money in the resume screening, hiring and training process.
VAs usually do all the work in their own home-based offices	There is no need to provide extra office space for an occasional employee
VAs offices are fully equipped with the necessary office equipment such as computer, fax and phone	There is no need to have the expense that is associated with additional equipment that the employee will need to use
VAs are easy to contact with a simple phone call or email	Professional office assistance is available when you need it.
VAs handle their own expenses	There is no need for you to worry about payroll deductions, benefits, vacations or down time due to sickness
VAs bill only for time actually spent on a client’s project	You don't need to worry time wasted by an in-house employee waiting for the projects to be assigned
VAs are able to take the extra or tedious work off your shoulders	By outsourcing some of your projects to a VA you can spend more time concentrating on more important tasks associated with operating your business
VAs are dedicated to working WITH the client to help them succeed in their business	It becomes a Win-Win opportunity because you meet and exceed the needs of YOUR customers.