The introduction of the internet was soon followed by the welcomed role of a Virtual Assistant. And, as we continue to evolve within our digitally connected world, Virtual Assistants are in high demand. However, there are many misconceptions about the role of a VA… so let’s bust them!
Virtual Assistants Need Lots of Training:
A common myth about Virtual Assistants is they need a ton of hand-holding or on-the-job training. But any Virtual Assistant worth their weight in gold will pick up new tasks and responsibilities in a jiffy. In fact, VA’s bring a mix of skills to the table and can learn on the fly, making them incredibly handy for businesses in need of efficient and adaptable support (we’re pretty quick to dive in and get things done!)
Security & Confidentiality:
Sharing your private and confidential information to a remote Virtual Assistant can naturally be quite daunting. But we’re business owners too and we understand the importance of maintaining privacy and keeping data secure... it’s a top priority for VAs! After all, a Virtual Assistant will typically have access to their client's contact information, personal data, intellectual property, cloud storage, social media platforms, bank accounts and more.
So, when you partner with a new Virtual Assistant you should expect to receive a copy of their terms and conditions – it needn’t be particularly long-winded, but it should outline key responsibilities, ways of working and, of course, confidentiality (including how your data will be treated after the work/project comes to an end). You can also ask your VA to sign a separate NDA.
It's worth noting that VAs are familiar with data protection principles as we act as both data controllers of our own data, and data processors of our clients’ data.
Oh, and top-notch Virtual Assistants will have their own insurance too.
Virtual Assistants Are Expensive:
One misconception that may deter businesses from hiring a Virtual Assistant is the belief that they are prohibitively expensive. But while the hourly rate of a Virtual Assistant may initially seem higher than that of a traditional employee, you can still get more bang for your buck with a VA on your team.
For instance, regular employees get paid whether they're hustling or hanging out. But with a Virtual Assistant, you only pay for their productive time.
It’s also worth considering those necessary but ‘‘hidden’’ costs when taking on a new employee such as desk space, computer equipment, a company phone and stationery; Not to mention holiday and sick pay, National Insurance, and pension contributions. When you compare these expenses with the flexibility of a Virtual Assistant where you don’t have to provide (and more importantly, pay!) for any of this, there’s a lot of money to be saved.
See, I told you… bang for your buck!
All Virtual Assistants Do the Same… Admin!
Not all VAs are cut from the same cloth so please don't fall for the myth that we’re clones doing the same tasks in a one-size-fits-all manner. The reality couldn’t be further from the truth. While our role is to provide clients with administrative, technical and creative support - generally speaking - every Virtual Assistant has their own ‘‘niche’’ and area of expertise.
For example, some Virtual Assistants only provide their services to specific industries such as building surveyors, healthcare professionals or the legal sector. Whereas other VAs provide their services to a range of different companies within different areas of business.
The specific services of a Virtual Assistant can vary, but generally speaking they will include PA support, content writing, social media management, event planning, research, bookkeeping, website management, personal lifestyle management, recruitment assistance, transcriptions, and more.
And while the world is evolving, so is the role of a Virtual Assistant. This means we’re ready to learn new skills and undertake a range of new responsibilities, leaving our clients more time (and energy!) to spend on their business objectives. This personalised approach allows businesses to get the tailored support they need, making Virtual Assistants versatile and adaptable assets to any company.
VAs Only Work for Small Businesses:
Virtual Assistants aren't just for the little guys, y’know? We work with entrepreneurs and SMEs to the big dogs!
Many bigwig companies onboard VAs to handle specific tasks or to help support large projects, allowing the in-house teams to stick to what they do best.
Smaller companies hire Virtual Assistants to aid the day-to-day efficiency of the business, handling the calendar organisation, email management, agenda preparation, meeting minutes and travel bookings. By doing so, entrepreneurs then have more time to concentrate on meaningful activities such as revenue generation and productivity enhancements.
Having a VA on your team is a bit like having an extra pair of hands whenever you need them; Departments without dedicated administrative support, companies overwhelmed with tasks for their existing staff members, or teams tackling one-off projects can all appreciate the valuable services provided by VAs.
Virtual Assistants Only Work Part-Time:
Some VAs work part-time, yes. But others work full-time hours. In fact, many Virtual Assistants work full-time and will adjust their schedules to match their clients, ensuring tasks are completed in a timely fashion and they’re available when you need them.
Now we’ve busted these common myths around Virtual Assistants, you can see how VAs bring a flexible and budget-friendly option to the table, making them a valuable asset to any workforce.
As businesses navigate the crazy twists of an ever-changing market, teaming up with a Virtual Assistant can be a savvy move to boost efficiency, spark innovation, and pave the way for success.
Considering hiring a Virtual Assistant? Get in touch!
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