Mention you’re a Virtual or a Remote Assistant and most people will immediately think that all you do is data entry or general administration tasks – Wrong! There are so many different activities a Virtual/Remote Assistant can perform to support a business to work more effectively and efficiently, operating as a valuable and flexible resource.
In this blog we would like to take the opportunity to share with you, what a Virtual Assistant (VA) or Remote Assistant (RA) – as they are also called, is, as well as what the job description can actually include. There are so many misconceptions out there!
A VA/RA operates as their own business
Most are small business owners who work from home providing highly skilled, support including essential administrative, technical and/or creative services to one or more other business owners.
Virtual working
VAs/RAs will either work alone from home or be part of a company or group, but in both cases, they are usually seen as an essential team member for many businesses that utilise their services. Working virtually, providing off-site support for the clients they work with, generally they interact with their clients via email, telephone or through Zoom or other video conferencing tools. Connecting regularly is essential when working remotely to ensure all needs and requirements are met.
VAs/RAs are not a cheap fix to recruiting on a permanent basis!
Contrary to popular belief VAs/RAs aren’t a cheap fix, especially if you want a quality output and a professional representation of your business. You need to hire a quality, well-trained VA/RA with the skills and expertise to deliver the work you needed.
Realistically you should be looking at paying at least £30-35 per hour depending upon the skills needed. However, many do offer subscription packages or project-based pricing, as well as offering an ad-hoc hourly rate. Whatever your requirements they should always be able to offer you an affordable solution for your needs.
Like anything, there are always cheaper VAs/RAs advertising their services, but often, they have no real training, and you are likely to end up with sub-standard service and potential damage to your business and its reputation.
VAs/RAs come from a variety of backgrounds
Another misconception is that all VAs/RAs are ex-Personal Assistants or Executive Assistants, however, this is often not the case. In fact, they often come from a vast range of different backgrounds and the unique combination of skills and experience, enables them to bring a wide range of experience to support your business.
VAs/RAs aren’t just admin or diary managers
Although diary management and administrative tasks can make up part of their duties, with their varied backgrounds and unique skillsets they can all specialise in something different, whether that’s providing specialised skills in website and social media management, copywriting, sales and marketing or project management, to name a few.
They’re a credible, serious business resource that can help you grow your business
Hiring a VA/RA not only gives you access to remote and flexible support but also enables you to access additional skills and experience you may not otherwise have within your business.
No matter what type of VA/RA you select, the most important thing you will gain is an essential and valuable team member. Someone who is serious about their business and yours – providing focused quality support, that enables your business to grow – but who will also be as invested in your success as you are.
For further details on how McKenzie Consultancy & Legal can support your business please check out our website www.mckenzie-consultancy.co.uk We offer a number of subscription packages for our VA/RA services from 3, 6 or 10 hours a month at £30 an hour. Drop us a line to find out more at info@mckenzie-consultancy.co.uk
