The pandemic changed the game when it comes to how people work remotely. Due to lockdowns and social distancing protocols, businesses had to figure out how to make remote work happen—and fast. It showed us that remote work isn’t just a concept. It’s totally doable, and it comes with a lot of benefits for employers and employees alike.
Before the pandemic, only a few companies implemented remote work. But now, it’s the norm. Increasingly more businesses are looking for ways to support their teams and keep things running smoothly— and that’s where the virtual assistant jobs (VAs) come in.
It’s time to put the spotlight on virtual assistants
Virtual assistants (VAs) are the office secretaries of the digital age, offering a range of services from receptionist tasks, administrative tasks, to specialized project management—all without ever setting foot in your physical office.
Unlike traditional assistants who work onsite, VAs provide their support remotely. They leverage technology to stay connected and get the job done. Think of them as your behind-the-scenes staff, tackling everything from scheduling meetings and managing emails to handling customer inquiries and even more personal tasks of social media management.
The VA industry at a glance
The VA industry is booming, reflecting the changing nature of work and the increasing demand for remote support services.
Market size and growth trends
- The global virtual assistant market hit $2054.5 million in 2021 and is set to hit $8613.5 million by 2028. That’s a huge growth rate of 22.3% over the forecast period. (Business Research Insight)
- Based on the number of virtual assistants available on freelance platforms and agencies, it’s estimated that there are over 40 million virtual assistants worldwide. (There Is Talent)
- Offshore virtual assistant hiring surged by 41% in 2020. (NanoGlobals)
- In 2020, freelance virtual assistants saw a 16% increase in bookings through online marketplaces. (NanoGlobals)
The rise in offshore virtual assistant hiring and bookings through online marketplaces shows that businesses are relying more on remote workers, especially after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here’s how virtual assistants are shaping different industries
Virtual assistants (VAs) are no longer limited to small businesses or startups. They’re becoming essential in various industries, providing vital support to entrepreneurs, executives, and big corporations alike.
VAs can be found in a wide range of sectors
About 28% of VAs work in entrepreneurship, while 14% are in consulting, 9% in coaching, 8% in marketing, 7% in technology, 6% in education, 5% in real estate, 4% in legal, and the rest are spread across other fields. (Invedus)
They juggle a mix of tasks, from scheduling appointments and managing records to handling billing, customer service, and social media management, catering to the unique needs of each industry.
More CEOs are hiring virtual assistants directly
One interesting trend is the increasing number of high-level executives delegating tasks to VAs, shedding light on how they help executives focus on strategic goals and maximize their productivity.
35% of big-shot executives who are raking in the dough have a trusty VA by their side. (Prialto)
It’s not just small businesses that are benefiting from virtual assistants
Almost half (49%) of the companies that are hiring VAs have over 1,000 employees. (Zippia)
It goes without saying that VAs are valued members of support teams in large corporations as well, not just cost-saving measures for startups.
Top 2 considerations when hiring virtual assistants
Hiring a virtual assistant can be a game-changer for your business, providing you with the support you need to focus on growth and innovation. Whether you’re a startup entrepreneur or a seasoned executive, the right VA can make a world of difference in your business.
The profile of the virtual assistant
When it comes to hiring a VA, understanding their profile is key. Here are some insights into the typical VA:
- With about 60% of VAs having a college education, businesses can expect a high level of professionalism and expertise. This shows that VAs are well-equipped to handle various tasks effectively and may offer specialized services. (Prialto)
- The fact that 85% of VAs have their own websites is a testament to their professional commitment. They actively showcase their skills and services, making it easier for businesses to assess their capabilities.(Outsource Workers)
- Nearly 60% (59%) of them are working full-time gigs. (Time Doctor)
Salary ranges according to skill sets, experiences, or area
One of the most attractive aspects of hiring virtual assistants is their cost-effectiveness compared to in-house staff. Here’s what you can expect in terms of salaries:
- They’re a bargain compared to in-house staff, costing about 78% less than your typical full-time office worker. (Prialto)
- Average hourly rates per platform:
- Zippia: around $19 per hour
- Upwork: about $10-20 per hour
- ZipRecruiter: $24
As you can see, rates vary. There’s no one-size-fits-all price tag when it comes to VAs, it ultimately depends on you.
It’s like ordering a pizza. You can choose from a variety of toppings, crusts, and sizes, each with its own price. VAs offer different skill sets, levels of experience, and availability, which can affect their rates. Just as you customize your pizza based on your preferences, you can tailor your choice of virtual assistant services to meet your unique business requirements.
But, keep in mind, even on platforms like ZipRecruiter, where the average rates are relatively higher, virtual assistants remain a more affordable option compared to hiring in-house staff.
Advancements and trends in the virtual assistant landscape
The VA market continues to fuel growth in these industries:
- In 2022, the global market for Cloud Based Office Productivity Software was around $20.8 Billion. By 2030, it’s expected to skyrocket to a massive $127.7 Billion. That’s a whopping growth rate of 25.5% over the analysis period from 2022 to 2030. (Research and Markets)
- In 2021, the global video conferencing market was valued at about $6.28 billion. It’s expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% from 2022 to 2030. By the end of that period, we’re looking at some serious expansion in this market. (Grand View Research)
From project management platforms to time tracking apps and CRM systems, these cloud-based solutions help VAs work smarter and more efficiently. They can collaborate seamlessly with clients and access essential tools from anywhere with an internet connection.
Meanwhile, collaboration platforms provide centralized hubs for task management, file sharing, messaging, and project tracking, enabling seamless communication and collaboration between VAs and their clients.
AI and automation tools have become must-haves for virtual assistants to make their lives easier.
- In 2024, the market size for AI is projected to hit a whopping $184.00 billion—from 2024 to 2030, it’s expected to grow at an annual rate of 28.46%. By 2030, we’re looking at a market volume of around $826.70 billion. (Statista)
- By 2030, AI is predicted to increase the United States GDP by 21%, showing how much it’ll help economic growth. (Forbes)
- 64% of businesses think that AI will make them more productive. It seems like more companies are trusting AI to shake things up. (Forbes)
These tools can handle stuff like email responses, data entry, and social media posts, so VAs can focus on the important stuff that needs human touch.
Specialized software and tools made such as project management software, time tracking apps, and CRM systems have popped up to meet their specific needs. By using these, many virtual assistants can work smarter, not harder, and provide top-notch service to their clients.
Remote work will continue to increase in popularity
The work-from-home boom drummed up demand for VAs, as increasingly more businesses realize they can get top-notch support without needing someone in the office. Remote work also opened up a whole world of opportunities for VAs, who can now tap into a much larger client base than before.
And with everyone going remote, VAs have gotten even more savvy with new tools and tech. From cloud-based apps to automation tools, VAs are finding creative ways to stay connected and productive in a virtual world.
- In 2023, 12.7% of full-time employees worked from home, while 28.2% work a hybrid model (Forbes)
- By 2025, 32.6 million Americans will work remote by 2025 (Upwork)
- 98% of workers want to work remote at least some of the time (LinkedIn)
- 35% of remote employees feel more productive when working fully remote (Pew Research)
- 71% of remote workers said remote work helps balance their work and personal life (Pew Research)
Bonus resource: Debunking VA myths
If these concerns struck a chord with you, you’re not alone—and we’re here to put your mind at ease.
Myth 1: It’s easy to get hacked when you work with a VA.
Fact: Data breaches are a concern for businesses regardless of whether they work with a VA or not. However, the key lies in partnering with a trusty VA firm that places a high priority on security measures and practices.
A reputable firm will have strict security measures in place, including encryption, access controls, and regular audits to ensure compliance with industry standards. They will also prioritize data privacy and confidentiality, adhering to legal requirements and best practices to safeguard your sensitive information.
Ultimately, by choosing a trusted VA firm and maintaining open lines of communication, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of data breaches and protect your business’s valuable assets.
Myth 2: Time zone differences make managing virtual assistants difficult.
Fact: Virtual assistants are incredibly adaptable when it comes to working across different time zones. Whether you’re in the United States, Europe, or anywhere else in the world, they can adjust their schedules to match yours seamlessly. So, while you’re catching Z’s or enjoying your downtime, they’re hard at work, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and on time.
One of the best things about virtual assistants is that they’re self-starters. They don’t need constant hand-holding or micromanagement to get things done. Once you’ve set out your expectations and priorities for virtual workers, they’ll take the initiative to tackle their tasks independently. This means you can focus on other aspects of your business knowing that they’re handling their responsibilities effectively.
With just a simple daily check-in or status update, you can stay in the loop without having to monitor their every move. Whether it’s a quick email, a message on your communication platform, or a brief video call, you can touch base with your VA and ensure that everything is progressing smoothly. This level of communication keeps both parties aligned and ensures that any issues or concerns can be addressed promptly.
Myth 3: Hiring a VA will compromise the quality of your work.
Fact: This is a common misconception. While some may worry that the world’s virtual assistants may not be as committed or detail-oriented as in-house staff, the reality is quite the opposite. Many VAs are highly skilled professionals who take pride in delivering high-quality work.
When you partner with a reputable VA firm and take the time to vet candidates, you can find individuals with the expertise and dedication to meet your standards. Plus, VAs often bring a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to the table, enhancing the quality of your projects.
With clear communication, regular feedback, and proper training, VAs can become valuable members of your team, ensuring that your work maintains the highest standards of quality.
Myth 4: It’s going to be hard working with foreign VAs.
Fact: Some worry about language barriers and cultural differences when working with VAs from different countries. However, many VAs are fluent in English and are skilled at working with clients from diverse backgrounds.
Moreover, VAs are professionals who understand the importance of effective communication and collaboration. They are committed to providing excellent service and will go the extra mile to meet your needs and preferences.
With clear communication channels and mutual respect, working with foreign VAs can be a smooth and rewarding experience. Their unique perspectives and skills can bring valuable insights to your projects, enriching your business in unexpected ways.
The 5-step quick guide to hiring your first virtual assistant
Now that you’ve got the 411 on VAs, here are some tips for hiring the right one for your business:
1. Define your needs
Before diving into the hunt for a virtual assistant, take a moment to get clear on what you actually need help with right virtual assistant and what skills are essential for the job.
What specific skills or expertise are required to tackle them effectively? Do you need someone with strong organizational skills, impeccable attention to detail, or maybe someone who’s a wizard with spreadsheets? By pinpointing these key skills upfront, you’ll be better equipped to find the perfect VA who can hit the ground running and make your life a whole lot easier.
2. Review portfolios
Start by checking out their portfolios or websites to get a feel for their experience and skills. Look for examples of their work that align with what you need help with. If you’re in need of social media management, see if they’ve managed accounts similar to yours. If you need help with customer service, look for evidence of their excellent communication skills.
Don’t forget to pay attention to any certifications or qualifications they may have listed. These can give you valuable insights into their expertise and level of professionalism. And if they’ve got glowing testimonials or reviews from past clients, that’s a sure sign that they’re worth considering.
3. Consider communication
When you’re bringing a virtual assistant on board, communication is key. After all, they’re going to be your right-hand person, helping you tackle tasks and keep things running smoothly. So, it’s crucial to ensure that the VA you hire has excellent communication skills and can adapt to your preferred channels.
During the hiring process, pay attention to how responsive and attentive the VA is. Do they ask clarifying questions? Are they proactive in updating you on their progress? These are all signs of strong communication skills.
4. Test the waters
Consider starting with a trial period or a small project to assess the VA’s performance and compatibility with your business.
Be sure to provide feedback throughout the trial period, both positive and constructive. This will help the VA understand your expectations and make any necessary adjustments to their work style. Additionally, use this time to gauge their responsiveness, reliability, and ability to meet deadlines.
5. Establish expectations
From the get-go, set clear guidelines, deadlines, and expectations to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Be detailed about what you expect from the VA, including any preferred methods or formats for completing tasks. Clearly communicate any priorities or urgent tasks so that the VA knows what to focus on first. Establishing these communication norms early on will help streamline collaboration and ensure that everyone is working efficiently towards the same goals.
Make these stats your reality when you hire a virtual assistant
TaskDrive’s AI-powered virtual assistants are experts in their field, equipped with the latest tools and technologies to streamline processes and maximize productivity. Whether you need help with research, data analysis, or customer support, our VAs have the skills and experience to get the job done efficiently and effectively. Plus, you can scale your team up or down as needed, ensuring that you always have the right resources at your disposal.
When you hire VAs from TaskDrive, you’re not just getting a team of remote workers — you’re gaining a strategic partner dedicated to helping your business succeed. Reach out to us today and take your business to the next level.
