What’s a Virtual Assistant?

A virtual assistant (VA) is a person who provides support services to other businesses from a remote location. The term originated in the 1990s as the ability to work virtually due to technology improvements, such as high-speed Internet, document sharing, and other advancements, made working remotely a reality.

Virtual assistants are especially in demand by entrepreneurs and online businesses that need help but don’t want to bring on staff in their location. However, many small and mid-size businesses use virtual support, especially for specific tasks such as Admin, Marketing, and Prospecting task.

Theoretically, a VA can do anything any other support staff does, except bring the coffee. (Although when home-delivery coffee is created, the VA will be able to do that too!).

Some virtual assistants specialize in specific skill sets. For example, a realtor virtual assistant can handle transactions from contract to close, prospecting virtual professionals generate new leads, and marketing VA’s can manage your social media.

Many virtual professionals work for BPO companies or Business Process Outsourcing companies. These companies like SecondYou typically have offices in the Philippines, India, or Ukraine.  Why these countries?  These countries have a highly skilled labor force, speak good English, and have a great worth ethic. They also save companies more than half the money it would cost for an employee working in the office in salary, benefits, and taxes. 

If you’re looking to hire a virtual professional to calm the chaos in your business and get back your time go to SecondYou.