5 Benefits of using a Virtual Assistant for your business

Whether you run a start-up company, a small business or you simply work for yourself, you may not always have the need for or the resources for a full-time assistant. Taking care of the day to day running of your business – arranging meetings, paying invoices, updating social media, or making travel arrangements etc can take up a large portion of your day when, you could be focussed on the more core elements of running your business.  These are some of the reasons why you could ultimately benefit from the services of a Virtual Assistant, helping to free up your time and getting things done, without the need of having a full-time member of staff.  So, let’s explore some of the many benefits of using Virtual Assistant below;

1. They are quick and easy to source

More and more people are working from home or for themselves, with Virtual Assistants amongst those which are easy to find online.  With little recruitment time you could start using the services of a Virtual Assistant the very same day, meaning no lengthy or costly recruitment processes.  A quick Google search, recommendation from a fellow business associate or using a freelance hire portal is all you need to find your saviour.

2. They are cost effective

You can hire a Virtual Assistant by the hour, project or on a regular retainer basis for as many hours as you need that day, week or month.  If you only need someone for a few hours each week or ad hoc to help out during busy periods, then you can hire a Virtual Assistant that meets your budget and needs, without worrying about other HR concerns such as pensions, National Insurance or taxation etc.  Virtual Assistants look after their own finances and taxation, so all you need to do is ensure you pay them for their time and they’ll take care of the rest.

3. They are reliable

Virtual Assistants are skilled in a variety of disciplines and have a wide range of experience, working with a number of businesses across different industries worldwide and thus very adaptable.  You will be able to check out their testimonials and reviews of their services from past clients, and you can be sure that their main aim is to get the job done to the best of their ability.

4. They can help you become more organised

The difference of having a Virtual Assistant working alongside you in your business can prove priceless.  You may find that your business is far more organised, less stressful and the little things you may forget to do or do not have enough time for, will get done without any fuss – making your business more streamlined and professional.

5. They are easy to contact

Whilst there are some benefits to having someone physically present in your office.  These days, there isn’t much that can’t be done remotely thanks to Skype, instant messaging, email and much more.  Therefore, there should be no issues with your Virtual Assistant being contactable via these methods or even by sharing your desktop remotely in order to work collaboratively on certain projects together.

Hiring a Virtual Assistant can be a permanent or a temporary move and whichever you choose, you are sure to find instant benefits from their skills and ability to assist you in managing the running of your business.  If you are fortunate enough to find a Virtual Assistant that you are comfortable working with, and who provides value add to your business, you will have taken a very positive step to growing your support team and ultimately your business in the long run.  See here for more information on how a Virtual Assistant can help you in your business.

Picture courtesy of virtual support UK