What is a Virtual Assistant (VA)?

I have heard many small businesses and individuals say we would have no need for a Virtual Assistant, without actually realising what a Virtual Assistant (VA) can do for them.

After a series of about 5 questions and taking time to find out what each business is involved in, each owner generally says "Wow, we didn't realise that we could use your service to assist us with that!"

So, what is a VA? Well as opposed to being permanently employed as a secretary or PA, a Virtual Assistant is as it sounds "Virtual".

A business or individual can send their requirements through by email (either dictation focussed or other), a VA picks up the requirements at their end, processes the request and returns to their client. Sometimes a VA and client may never actually meet. However, how can that matter if the work is being done efficiently and effectively?

Sometimes a VA can also work onsite if required by a client, but as we move forward most clients are being convinced that with the use of email, Skype, mobile phones, LogMeIn etc that a VA can remain virtual and still ensure that their clients' needs are being met continually.

Examples of how a VA can possibly assist your or your business include:

- typing
- research
- newsletter creation and sending
- website updates
- powerpoint presentations
- phone calls/telemarketing

and much much more.