Virtual Assistants: FAQ
Posted on 2nd December 2021 at 12:21
Most people are familiar with the role of a personal assistant (or PA), but many are new to the world of virtual assistants!
Virtual assistants have grown in popularity over recent years, and that popularity is set to grow even further. You may be either looking into becoming a virtual assistant yourself or considering hiring one to help your business. Either way, there may be some questions you have about VAs.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common questions about virtual assistants so you can make the right decision for you and your business.
If you’d like to discuss the specifics of how a virtual assistant could help your business, visit the ‘Contact’ section of our website for a free chat!
What is a VA?
A VA performs the same role (more or less) as a personal assistant, only virtually. VAs make use of technology like video calling, project management software and file-sharing systems, negating the need for them to be in an office full-time.
A VA works with businesses to take on certain tasks as and when a business needs them, meaning that they are generally a lot more flexible than permanent office staff.
What can a VA do?
That depends on the VA – some specialize in certain areas, whereas others take on a wider range of tasks. Some common tasks can include:
• Email & diary management
• Admin
• Copywriting and editing
• Sales assistance
• Accounting
• Social media management
• Organizing events
• Transcription
This, however, isn’t an exhaustive list - VAs can take on pretty much anything that can be done virtually!
How do virtual assistants work?
There are plenty of online tools that a VA can use to work, especially nowadays. VAs use a variety of video calling tools to communicate with their clients, so you can still have a high level of communication with assistants even if they aren’t in your physical office.
File sharing systems allow people to collaborate on projects as well as securely share work between client and VA. If you’re interested in the online tools that can be used by virtual assistants, we have a blog called ‘Free Online Tools for VAs’ – click HERE to read it.
Most virtual assistants work from home, allowing them to choose their own hours. VAs can be self-employed or choose to work within an agency.
How can I become a virtual assistant?
If you’d like to become a virtual assistant, the best first step is to research!
We have a few blogs that may be useful if you’re looking to become a VA yourself – we have a blog called ‘What Do I Need to Get Started As A VA?’, which details the equipment you’ll need. We also have a blog about whether you need a certification to become a VA!
It’s a good idea to research potential areas you may wish to specialize in, as well as take the necessary steps to get a certification. This will stand you in good stead when it comes to getting your first client!
What are the benefits of using a virtual assistant?
There are plenty of benefits for both businesses who use VAs and the VAs themselves.
Benefits for businesses include:
• Flexible assistance when you need it
• No need to pay for office space
• More efficient service compared to full-time staff
Benefits for virtual assistants include:
• Better work life balance
• Can choose own hours
• Work to your own strengths
• No need to commute
• Varied work life
Hopefully this has answered some of your questions about the world of virtual assistants. If you have any specific questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch using the ‘Contact’ tab at the top of this page!
Share this post: