Last Updated on July 23, 2024
Virtual assistants have liberated the labor market, saved entrepreneurs a lot of money, and allowed them to act agilely and quickly, making company changes. However, what a virtual assistant can do is mainly misconstrued. Then again, some business owners have used a virtual assistant before but found their experience negative. Here, we will debunk most of the commonly known myths surrounding virtual assistants and suggest how you can get on board, which can lead to success for you and your business.
Myth 1 – A virtual assistant is a generalist
This is inaccurate. A virtual assistant usually merely refers to someone who offers skills remotely. A virtual assistant can, by contrast, be highly specialized. This can mean being able to help you do your video editing, bookkeeping, managing your HR processes, and so much more. Also, a VA tends to work harder and for longer hours than someone within your office. Virtual assistants are driven: they have a mature outlook and know how to focus precisely on tasks.
Myth 2 – Communication is problematic
That is not true – poor communication is mainly seen in managers dealing with their in-person staff.
There should be no reason to have a breakdown in communication. You can communicate via phone, email, and Zoom sessions if you prefer a face-to-face experience.
The only difference is that an assistant will not work in the office. Otherwise, their communication skills are well-developed, and they are used to communicating through email and phone.
Myth 3 – Virtual assistants are paid to do any- and everything
Even though virtual assistants are talented, businesses hire them to complete specific tasks. It is, therefore, evident that any reputable agency will classify the different types of virtual assistants according to the services they can provide. Thus, business owners must identify their needs so that the perfect assistant can be sourced to determine the tasks.
Myth 4 – In-person assistants can do more than a virtual assistant
Besides not making coffee and taking your laundry to the dry cleaners, there is nothing a virtual assistant cannot do that an in-person assistant can do for you. However, depending on the type of support you require, a virtual assistant can do everything and more than an in-person assistant. Also, virtual assistants are often more productive, as they need to manage their time well. Therefore, you do not have to stress about redundancy within the workplace. The key to hiring a great virtual assistant is operating through an agency that can provide the best help.
Aristo Sourcing has motivated entrepreneurs and businesses, both large and small, to upscale by sourcing great people to help. Contact us today. We are here to support you!
3 Key Takeaways
-
Virtual assistants can be highly specialized and offer various skills, from bookkeeping and HR management to video editing. They tend to be very focused and work long hours.
-
Communication with virtual assistants is accessible and can be done through phone, email, or video calls. There’s no reason to expect communication problems more than with in-person staff.
-
Virtual assistants are not for everything, but reputable agencies will match your needs with a qualified assistant who can handle specific tasks. They can often do more than in-person assistants, especially regarding productivity and time management.