5 VA Hiring Myths: The Truth about Working with a Virtual Assistant
Virtual Assistants, or “VAs” are quickly becoming one of the most valuable additions to any business team. Capable of completing a vast variety of tasks on behalf of business owners, professionals, and entrepreneurs, VAs are your ultimate partner in boosting productivity and efficiency.
However, even as the demand for virtual assistant expertise continues to grow, there’s still a great deal of confusion out there about what VAs actually do.
There are a number of misconceptions floating around. Some people believe VAs are only for major business owners like Richard Branson and Elon Musk. Others assume VAs are only there to help with administrative work like answering calls and emails.
It’s about time we busted some of these myths.
Myth 1: It’s All About the Admin
In the past, assistants have often been associated with things like making coffee and answering letters. However, in today’s digital world, the VA is capable of so much more. Your VA is essentially the ultimate extra pair of hands for your business. They tackle the work you don’t need to handle yourself, so you have more time to focus on running (and growing) your business.
VAs can assist with just about every task you can imagine, from conducting research, to transcribing calls, and even arranging your travel schedule.
Myth 2: VAs Aren’t For Small Businesses
Hiring an expert to handle all the tasks you don’t want to do might sound like an expensive process, reserved only for the biggest entrepreneurs. However, this isn’t the case. Because VAs are so flexible, they can adapt to suit the needs of any company.
What’s more, working with a VA is much less expensive than you’d think. You pay for exactly what you need in terms of hours and support, so you get to control your budget. The amount of time and money you save with a VA in your corner quickly offsets any costs.
Myth 3: VAs are Only Temporary
Some people assume virtual assistants are only a good idea when they’re over-run with work or dealing with a particularly tight schedule. While you can definitely access additional services and support from a VA during this time, they can also be a long-term and consistent member of the team.
A good VA will be on-hand to solve all of your problems – whenever you need them (within reason). You can keep them around for as long as you need the extra assistance.
Myth 4: All Virtual Assistants are the Same
Virtual Assistants come in many different flavours these days. Some focus mostly on managing your schedule for you and helping you to make the most of your time. Others have specialist skills, so they can assist with things like bookkeeping and accounting.
The perfect VA is like the perfect pair of shoes – there’s no one-size-fits-all. However, once you find the ideal option for you, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Myth 5: Virtual Assistants are Hard to Reach
Because they’re “virtual” most people assume VAs are harder to connect with than your standard office employee. While you might not be able to chat over a cup of coffee with your VA – they’ll always be there when you need them. You’ll receive information about your VA’s schedule, and their contact details when you sign up for your service.
This ensures your VA will often only be a message, email, or call away when you have a question or a request. They’ll often check-in with you more than a traditional employee too!
Bonus Myth: VAs are Miracle Workers
Virtual assistants can be extremely valuable to any business – but they’re like any investment – you’ll get out what you put in. Your VA will still need clear briefs and guidance to complete jobs according to your specifications. They may have questions they need to ask you from time to time, and there will be things they’ll need to learn about your company when first getting started.
However, if you’re willing to work with your VA, they can quickly adapt to your needs, and deliver an incredible quality of service. Virtual assistants might not be miracle workers, but the results they create for your company can be close to miraculous!
Do You Need a VA?
A Virtual Assistant is the ultimate partner for any business owner or professional in search of a way to have a little more time on their hands. Now we’ve cleared up some of the myths about hiring a virtual assistant, it’s time to ask – do you need a VA of your own?
Till next time,
Hannelie
ps. I can help free up your time so you can concentrate on making money. Interested? Then book a call now lunevalleyva.co.uk/book