Will a Virtual Assistant Bring Value to Your Business?

We have all watched the scene in the movie where the secretary brings in coffee, takes dictation and types memos on a typewriter. Well, times have certainly changed and for the better.  Most executives get their own coffee at Starbucks on their way into the office, they write their own memos and have an administrative assistant review and format the document on their computer.  Now the changes are even changing.  No longer do you need someone stationed just outside your door sitting idly waiting for their next project; ramping up overhead costs, demanding costly benefits and more federal and state bureaucracy than you can shake a stick at. To say nothing of the cost of the stick.  With modern technology, exit the days of the secretarial and/or administrative assistance pool and enter the world of virtual assistants.

What is a Virtual Assistant?

A virtual assistant is an independently contracted business owner, not an employee. They work out of their own offices, manage the work from their clients and how it is carried out, set their own rates, as well as operating standards and policies, and pay their own self-employment taxes. Virtual assistants help small businesses expand their business instead of dealing with administration duties. Virtual assistants are cost effective because you only pay them when they work. Since they are independent contractors they are tax deductible. 

Who are Virtual Assistants?

Virtual assistants are entreprenuers, like you.  They are experienced Executive, Administrative and Personal Assistants, Secretaries, Receptionists, Event Planners, Project Managers and Web Masters.  They are the secret weapon you need to take your business to the next level.

What is the benefit of a Virtual Assistant?

When you hire a virtual assistant you -

•    Pay only when you need support.  No longer will you be paying for down time or breaks. Typically virtual assistants do not charge overtime for any work that has a specific deadline, as they work on expandable schedules.  You will not be responsible for paying their taxes, health benefits or paid time off.
•    Will not need to buy an extra computer, software, desk, chair, phone or supplies for their use, and the additional maintenance costs for these items.  Your virtual assistant will have everything they need to directly support you.
•    Will have more time in your day.  By delegating projects to your virtual assistant, you will have the time to further grow your business or enjoy a relaxing day at the spa.  Your virtual assistant can help you manage your schedule for upcoming networking opportunities, update your contacts with all the new people you meet, prepare proposals for your prospective client meetings and can help coordinate a celebration when you land a new client.

Who could use a Virtual Assistant?

Small business owners, entrepreneurs, or any company that might be considering adding an administrative professional to their team but don’t want the hassle of hiring, training and retaining a full-time employee.  Your virtual assistant can support you on a single project, or you can develop an ongoing partnership.  The possibilities are endless.

Could you use a virtual assistant?