What is a Virtual Assistant?

A Virtual Assistant (also known as a VA) is an independent contractor who provides professional administrative, technical, and/or creative (social) assistance to clients remotely. Virtual Assistants usually work for small businesses, but can also support busy executives and individuals in both professional and nonprofessional settings. Virtual Assistants come from a variety of business backgrounds, but most have several years experience earned in the "real" (non-virtual) business world.

When most people hear "virtual assistant," they assume it's a secretary who works from home, but the field has exploded into a variety of skill sets that could be valuable to various professionals.

Benefits to Hiring a Virtual Assistant

As a client of a Virtual Assistant, one of the benefits of using an independent contractor rather than an employee is you are not responsible for any employee related benefits, taxes, or insurance, except when those indirect expenses are included in the VA's fees. Clients also avoid the logistical problem of providing extra office space, equipment, or supplies. Clients pay only for productive work and can work with Virtual Assistants on an individual basis giving them quality, uninterrupted time. ​