"The Internet has revolutionized many business sectors and has single-handedly created one - virtual assistance." ("More firms use virtual assistance" by Nick Eason, CNN.com)

For many years businesses have realized the benefits of outsourcing by contracting temporary administrative support personnel. In the last 10 years however, the expansion of the Internet and modern technology has enabled home-based business support services to evolve and provide seamless, cost-effective business solutions - without compromise to timing, accessibility or quality. Work assignments are easily communicated by email, telephone, instant messaging or fax. Your Virtual Assistant (VA) doesnt have to be in your office, your city, or even your country!

What a VA does for Your Business

VAs are flexible, working on an as-needed basis, often beyond traditional business days and hours if required. Virtual Assistants typically offer administrative support but some VAs offer marketing and technical support services as well. Services include e-mail management; online article promotion; data entry; Internet research; project management; lead generation; website design; desktop publishing ,online newsletter (ezine) services and shopping cart management.

The VAs primary clients are small business owners and entrepreneurs who realize that they cant "do it all" and need an alternate solution to hiring employees. A Virtual Assistant gives them the freedom and confidence to achieve their business goals by taking care of the day-to-day details, follow-up and maintenance of their business. Large corporations have realized the benefits of Virtual Assistance as well. They call on VAs to work on special projects, handle overflow and for on-going assignments. A VA increases employee productivity and ensures the business maintains its quality reputation.

VAs are Independent Contractors, charging only for productive time - actual time worked. Clients avoid the hassles and costs of hiring employees and can reduce their overhead expenses by 50% (on average) when they hire a VA instead on an employee. Clients dont pay for benefits; payroll taxes; recruiting costs, downtime, personal time etc. nor does the client have to provide a physical workspace, equipment or software.

Virtual Assistants typically have two service options to suit the diverse needs of clients: an hourly rate (Pay-as-U-Go) as well as monthly retainer plans with discounted retainer rates for clients who commit to a 3-month contract.

Some companies hire temporary staff through Temp Agencies. However, there are many downsides to this option. Recruiting and training costs can be high, with no flexibility on the minimum level of service to be contracted. It can also be difficult to ensure continuity of service, as you wont always get the same temp.

Chances are, temps arent a viable option for the home-based business owner. Most temporary agencies dont offer services to home offices because those offices tend to lack space, equipment and facilities for on-site staff.

Theres an extra benefit businesses get using a Virtual Assistant rather than hiring employees or temporary personnel. VAs are business owners who are highly qualified and experienced. Because they are entrepreneurs, they understand the needs of todays business and go the extra mile in their work. Moreover, Virtual Assistants have a vested interest in their clients success. If VAs arent satisfying their clients, theyll soon be out of business!

The Client/VA Relationship

Working with a VA can be a rewarding experience for the client. To get the most benefit from a partnership with a VA, here are some tips:

* Be concise and direct, especially when communicating by email
* Be open to new ideas from your VA
* Communicate any concerns you may have to foster a sense of trust
* Be patient during the learning phase
* Establish ground rules from day one
* Keep in touch often

Because of modern technology, there isnt much that a VA cant do if the client is willing to work to make it happen. Because of this flexibility, VAs will continue to remain the leaders in skills and overall ability to meet the changing needs of todays business.

Copyright 2005 Michele Hanson-OReggio. All rights reserved.