How to find success as a virtual assistant
The advent of the Internet and a flattening of the job market means more people than ever looking for work virtually. Candidates are no longer limited to merely working with companies or businesses within their geographical region; instead, now businesses hire data entry clerks from other states, teleconference with national branch managers and even outsource professional services like call centres to other countries. This melting of geographical barriers has resulted in the rise of the virtual assistant, the 21st century's version of a personal assistant or office manager.
The role of a virtual assistant is almost identical to that of a more traditional personal assistant or administrative manager, one who provides clerical, administrative and support to a group of people in an office environment. The difference is that instead of being based in a physical location, virtual assistants can be based anywhere, performing tasks via telephone, teleconference, email and webcam.
Any organisation with need for clerical staff or duties such as data entry, organisation of schedules, ordering office supplies and processing policies has need for an office assistant, virtual or otherwise. Virtual assistants are popular with startup companies with less of a HR budget, or businesses based on seasonal trends such as farms, when demand for a skilled administrative employee may come in spurts and bursts during the year. For these types of businesses, a virtual assistant is the perfect balance between office support and costs.
Depending on the scope of the brief and contract, virtual assistants type up presentations and reports, keep an eye on the level of office supplies via online inventory monitoring, process expenses for sales staff, complete personal tasks such as ordering flowers or changing addresses, and perform scheduling for busy executives. The responsibilities of a virtual assistant can be as far ranging or narrow as they choose to be, agreed upon between assistants and their clients.
This role relies heavily on the Internet and information technology. Virtual assistants are extremely proficient with all forms of online networking, most computer programs and voice-over-IP technology. These skills are essential for virtual assistants to be able to perform their job. Many virtual assistants are trained typists, with experience using email programs like MS Outlook and Lotus Notes, or presentation programs such as MS PowerPoint. Other soft skills needed are time management skills, strong organisational ability, customer service and marketing knowledge. Online courses are available for those interested in acquiring virtual assistant skills such as from VA Training and VA Classroom.
The lure of a virtual assistant is the role's flexibility. You can choose to work from home, the library or your own offices. You choose the clients you want to work for, the hours you want to commit and the hourly rate. Virtual assistants have no obligation to be physically present at the office, freeing up time for other commitments like family. It is an ideal role for stay at home mothers, freelancers or those looking for a good work and life balance.
