When busy entrepreneurs and small business owners are finding it hard to stay afloat of a myriad of tasks, they don’t have to look far for some assistance. In walks the VA, not literally but virtually. So what is a Virtual Assistant? According to the IVAA, (The International Virtual Assistants Association) a VA is an independent entrepreneur providing administrative, creative and/or technical services. Utilizing advanced technological modes of communication and data delivery, a professional VA assists clients in his/her area of expertise from his/her own office on a contractual basis."
Virtual assistants are typically highly skilled professionals who enter into long term contracts with their business clients. Their functions may include:
- Administrative & Office Management
- Billing & Accounting
- Customer Service
- Marketing Assistance
- Social Media
- Legal Assistance
- Real Estate Support Services
- Travel Planning
- Web and Database Maintenance
- Internet Marketing
- Research
With an internet connection, phone and fax, virtual assistants operate remotely; most don't actually meet with their clients in person. With advances in technology, virtual assistants (who are their own business owners) are harnessing the power of the internet to establish successful businesses. For their services, they set their own fees, generally $30 per hour and up depending on the complexity of the tasks. Some VAs offer their clients monthly retainer packages.
VAs are an asset to business owners on a tight budget. Since VAs are not employees, and work out of their homes, small business owners benefit in a number of ways:
No overhead costs
No employee healthcare costs
No vacation & sick Pay
No payroll taxes
No training Costs
The Virtual Assistance business is a fast growing home business and might be just what you’ve been looking for.
Industry Resources & Inspiration
AssistU: Offers professional training for Virtual Assistants
International Virtual Assistants Association (IVAA)
