Virtual Assistance by Roxie

.While many consumers perpetuate myths about certain industries, it seems as though the Virtual Assistant Industry is riddled with them. Below I have compiled a list of some of the more common myths to be debunked:

1. All non-U.S. VA’s work for under $6.00/hr and its a great deal!

While it is possible to hire a VA from India, the Philippines or other developing country, for a few dollars an hour, there are some major difference between that non-US VA and a VA from the States. First, just because the VA charges an extremely low hourly rate doesn't mean that the cost of the overall project would be lower than if handled by a U.S. virtual assistant. it has been our experience that the foreign VAs take longer to complete the project and the resulting cost is higher. Further, the foreign VA will do exactly what you instruct - no more and no less. While that might work for a prospective client on certain levels, it can be detrimental in the long run. As a V.A., I consider myself your "partner" - if I think there is a better or more cost-effective way to accomplish a task or achieve a certain goal, I am going to share that with you. We work together for your success.

2. The VA is the employee of the client

Even though the VA is doing work for the client, they are independent contractors and not employees. The difference is that you do not have to withhold employment taxes (or pay the employer portion of the tax), offer benefits including medical, insurance, sick days or vacation days.

As an independent contractor, we only bill for the time we work on your project unlike an employee that you hire to work for you a certain amount of hours each day or week. This way, you are not incurring the cost of unproductive time which can actually be a great savings to you!

3. A Virtual Assistant cannot be as productive outside of the office.

Well that’s like saying no one can study with music on, ridiculous right? In this day of advanced mobile technology, VAs are able to be productive just about anywhere.

4. All VA’s are stay at home moms who are uneducated and only work when they feel like it.

First there are male VA’s. Second, while some are moms, they usually have at least a few years of experience and possible schooling as well; let’s not forget to mention the fact that as a person who owns their own business they usually work harder than the normal 9-5 person. Many Virtual Assistants have advanced training and technology that may not be available in your local area.

It’s so important to educate people about your business as a VA and there are two great ways to do that; first you can tell everyone you know about your business and second get in touch with your ideal clients and show them what you can do.