Virtual Assistants

Understand what a virtual office assistant does (and doesn't do) for your business VAs are independent contractors, not employees. They are in business just like you, and their goal is to provide effective, affordable, professional assistance. And like any other contractor, they may choose to take their business elsewhere if your agreement is breached.

I recommend:  Check professional associations for a list of duties VAs typically perform. The International Association of Virtual Office Assistants (IAVOA) is a good start. Get the inside scoop on common concerns VAs face on Virtual Assistant Networking message boards.

Find a reliable virtual assistant Starting with professional organizations is a good first bet. Talk to other people in your field who might have used Vas to get a referral.

I recommend:  Elite Office Support offers a worldwide listing of virtual office assistants. Check out the state-by-state directory on the IAVOA web site to find someone at a local level through state associations. The International Virtual Assistant Association (IVAA) also features a “Member Certification Directory” to enable businesses to find qualified member VAs.

Choices include a virtual assistant agency or solo VA Consistent company policies are one benefit of working with an agency, and replacements are readily available in case your first choice doesn't work out. Solo practitioners often provide equally professional services and might offer more negotiable rates and personalized service.

I recommend:  Virtual Office Temps is an agency that outsources VAs for just about any office need. Searching local want ads or VA professional association sites above should yield ample leads.