What Are Virtual Assistants?

What  are Virtual Assistants? This is a question you've probably asked yourself if you have heard of the title Virtual Assistant. A Virtual Assistant (VA) is an independent contractor and home based entrepreneur, who uses the Internet, phone, fax, email, and other technology to communicate with their clients.

Virtual Assistant provide administrative support and/or specialized business services. Many Virtual Assistants were Administrative or Executive Assistants in traditional work environments before launching their Virtual Assistance Practices. Most Virtual Assistants work from their home office and with the help of technology other virtual locations. Technology has enabled Virtual Assistants to have a global client base.
Virtual Assistant: What do they do?
Ok...so now you know the answer to the question what are Virtual Assistants, now lets talk about what they do.

Virtual Assistants provide a much of the same services as an onsite employee, but without the added expense. Some provide general services while others provide more specialized services such as a Virtual Real Estate Assistant.

Here are some services VAs offer: (not an exhaustive list)

• Website and Graphic Design
• Website Maintenance and Updates
• Online and Offline Marketing and Promotion
• Accounting / Bookkeeping
• Data Entry
• PowerPoint Presentations
• Advertising in Print Media
• Desktop Publishing
• Custom Ad Design for print media
• Travel Arrangements
• Writing, Editing & Researching Services
• Secretarial Services
• Word Processing
• General and Legal Transcription Services
• Database Management
• Personal Assistant Services
• Event Planning
• Technical Support
• Coaching / Consulting
• Customer Service
• Real Estate Support

Benefits of Using a Virtual Assistant:

Here are some benefits of using Virtual Assistants vs. traditional and temp employees:

Lower Costs for Fixed Expenses, Office Space, and Equipment - By using a VA you eliminate the need for more office space, cubicles, office furniture, computers, office supplies, etc. VAs work from their own office and use their own equipment. Your utility bills will also be lower by using a VA.

No Training and Recruiting Costs - VAs offer services in their area of expertise thus eliminating the need for training costs and hiring recruiters.

No Payroll, Benefits, Taxes, or Overtime - Since VAs are independent contractors and not employees you don't have to pay any taxes, health and/or life insurance benefits, no paid holidays, no paid vacations, and no sick leave. You also don't have to pay any overtime and/or time in a half.

More time to focus on your business - Using a VA frees up your valuable time to focus on growing and improving your business, knowledge, and relationships.
Well I hope this article has shed some light on what are virtual assistants, what they do, and the benefits of using them.