You might have heard the term “virtual assistant” being used before or might want to become one yourself, but many people don’t know exactly what a virtual assistant is, why they are necessary, or how to become one.
A virtual assistant (or VA) is an administrative assistant who works remotely, usually online. They are working professionals whose expertise can more than pay for the cost of hiring one. The most time-consuming tasks can be outsourced to your VA, who is efficient and experienced at handling these kinds of tasks.
The reason people hire a VA is because it saves you time and gives you the chance to do more interesting and productive things than replying to all your emails, following up with clients, and doing accounting work. They are also a good source of advice about business matters and can help you come up with or refine ideas. They are more than just an email answering service or blog updater, they are experts in administrative matters, so treat them as such and you can gain a lot from their experience!
This industry has existed for quite some time now, about a decade, but is growing hotter because of business layoffs and a sudden realization that VAs can provide so much value for the price you pay them.
If you want to find a VA, you can look at any number of sites and professional associations listing VAs, or post a help wanted ad on a site like Craigslist (though be warned, you are likely to receive many responses from amateurs or those desperate for any type of job, not just professionals).
If you are more interested in becoming a virtual assistant yourself, you will like the flexibility, demand in the industry, and ability to negotiate your salary. Also, you are working as an equal with your employer, not just an employee. You have to find a quiet and organized space to work from, as mistakes and misplacing papers can be disastrous and make you look bad, or even lose your job. Make sure there are no noisy pets, children, or traffic freeways that will cause distracting background noise if you will be doing any work by phone.
You can either join an established company which will market your services for you (and accept less freedom and flexibility, and possibly lower pay), or be an entrepreneur and start your own business. The decision of which option to choose is entirely up to you, but consider whether you like a structured work environment or a more chancy self-employment environment more.
Virtual assistants are highly sought after right now, as small businesses realize how much value a VA can bring to their business for a relatively low price. For company owners, they are partners who can help with the dullest tasks and contribute ideas, and for VAs, this type of employment is a fantastic chance to manage their own future and avoid going to work in an office every day, while being assured of a steady income and work.