Last month, I shared how strategic delegation reshaped our business, particularly through the addition of a Virtual Assistant (VA). Since then, many of you have asked, “What exactly does a Virtual Assistant do?” Today, we’re diving deeper to dispel myths, clarify roles, and explore how a VA can revolutionize your workflow.
From Doing It All to Having the Best Assistant
For years, I wore all the hats in my business—handling every task, managing every detail, and juggling more responsibilities than I could count. It wasn’t until I brought in a Virtual Assistant that I realized how much time I was losing to routine tasks. Now, instead of being bogged down by administrative work, I can focus on growing my business and even reclaiming some free time. A VA isn’t just support; they are an essential partner in making operations run smoothly.
A Virtual Assistant Is Not a Robot
Let’s clear this up first—when we say “Virtual Assistant,” we’re not talking about AI chatbots or automated systems. A VA is a real person—often working remotely from another city, state, or even country—who provides essential business support. Just like an in-house assistant, they handle administrative tasks, communicate with clients, and help keep the business running smoothly. The only difference? They work from a distance.
What My Virtual Assistant Does for Shades In Place
Bringing a VA into our business has been a game-changer. Here’s how they help keep things moving efficiently:
- Quoting: Preparing estimates and pricing proposals for clients.
- Order Entry: Processing orders accurately to ensure seamless delivery.
- Scheduling: Coordinating client appointments and managing calendars.
- Invoicing: Sending invoices and tracking payments to maintain cash flow.
- Administrative Organization: Handling emails, data entry, and other critical but time-consuming tasks.
By delegating these responsibilities, I’ve freed up time to focus on business growth, client relationships, and strategic planning.
The Value of a Virtual Assistant
Beyond the daily tasks, having a VA brings additional benefits:
- Cost-Effective Support: A VA can provide professional assistance without the overhead costs of hiring a full-time, in-house employee.
- Flexibility: They adapt to your business needs, working part-time or full-time depending on your workload.
- Diverse Skill Sets: Many VAs bring multilingual abilities, cultural insights, and specialized expertise that can enhance business operations.
A Virtual Assistant Works for Businesses of All Sizes
Whether you’re a solopreneur juggling every aspect of your company, a small business looking to improve efficiency, or a larger organization needing additional administrative support, a VA can be a valuable asset. Small businesses benefit from cost savings and flexibility, while larger companies use VAs to supplement their teams and handle overflow tasks. No matter your industry or business size, having an extra set of hands can free you up to focus on strategic growth rather than getting buried in day-to-day operations.
A Day in the Life of a Virtual Assistant
To give you a clearer picture, imagine a day in the life of a VA. They start their morning by checking emails, prioritizing urgent requests, and confirming appointments. By mid-morning, they might be processing orders, sending out quotes, or updating client records. After a quick break, they jump back in to handle invoicing, follow up on outstanding payments, and ensure all administrative tasks are up to date. By the end of the day, they’ve streamlined countless operations that would otherwise take up hours of your time.
How Virtual Assistants Charge for Their Services
Most VAs charge by the hour, but some offer packaged services based on a set number of hours per week or month. Our VA came from Valatam, a service specializing in connecting businesses with skilled professionals. They offer two primary options—20 hours per week or 40 hours per week—allowing businesses to choose a plan that fits their workload. The right package depends on how much support your business needs, making it a flexible and scalable solution.
Is a VA Right for You?
If you’re constantly bogged down by administrative work and feel like you never have time for business development, it might be time to explore hiring a VA. Investing in the right support system can be the key to scaling your business and achieving long-term success.
Finding the right VA requires careful selection—just like hiring an in-house employee. Look for professionals with experience in your industry, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt to your workflow. A great VA is more than just remote help; they become an integral part of your team, working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly.
I’d love to hear from you—have you worked with a VA before? What tasks would you delegate first? Let’s keep the conversation going!