Let’s start off by answering “What is a VA”? A “VA” is a Virtual Assistant. Basically, he or she is an assistant that works virtually from their home office or rented office space. There are some “VA”s that will work a hybrid position, meaning part at home and part in the office. Each may have their specialty field they like to work with and others may have a list of services that they offer. This flexibility offers a better work/life balance for those who work better at home and also for the client who may need assistance but not enough to hire another employee.
Most “VA”s own their own business. Because they own their own business, clients will save money by not having to pay the taxes and benefits you would with an employee. Some people relate them to a “Gal Friday” or temporary service back in the day. There are many ways that you can hire a Virtual Assistant. Pay them hourly, by the project, with a retainer, trade services and I am sure there are many other creative ways that have been designed. Some use contracts and some do not.
There are many ways to find “VA”s. By referral is always the best. There are many social platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram where you will find their contact information. Most “VA”s will set up an initial discovery call via phone or Zoom like platform to chat about your business and business needs. A chance for both of you to meet each other and decide if it would be a good working relationship.
“What can a VA do for me”?Soup to nuts! Maybe you need some data entry. You have a huge pile of information that needs to be organized and entered into a program that would make your life easier or better yet scan it in to digitize it. Is your email inbox driving you crazy or is your calendar out of control? Having someone manage your calendar and sorting through your email inbox will relieve some time and tension. Both of those services are popular ones! Connecting with your customers on a regular basis is always a good idea. An email newsletter is a great idea. A “VA” would be able to help you out with this. Social media is the craze. Posting and answering comments can be very time-consuming but are necessary in the marketing world today. Do you need help with planning a big event? Could you use a hand with research? Would you like to personalize your business a bit with a handwritten holiday card or birthday card? Do you have scheduled Zoom meetings and need assistance with set-up or monitoring during your event? Need a hand with some bookkeeping or sending out your invoices?
There is really no limit to what a Virtual Assistant can do. What they will do is become that helping hand in your everyday world to lightenyour load and lessen your level of stress. They will help you gain back time that could better be spent enjoying life or doing the work you really love to do! You are the quarterback and they are the receiver, throw them the pass! Virtual Assistants can also be helpful with your home life. Planning a big party or trip, scheduling appointments, sorting through all of those medical bills to be sure they get paid, maybe help format that family Christmas letter. It’s worth a try, what do you have to lose?
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me or schedule a free 30-minute consult by clicking the button under the “about me section”. This will bring you to my calendar. Feel free to share my newsletter.