Whenever companies and entrepreneurs need someone to take care of the necessary but time-consuming tasks, they call in virtual assistants.
For years now, VAs are the popular choice to support business processes. But as you search for your next rockstar remote assistant, you got to ask yourself: Should you hire freelancers or partner with a virtual assistant agency?
If you still haven’t figured it out yet, read this blog post and learn which VA outsourcing method is the smartest option for you.
What Is a Virtual Assistant Agency?
A virtual assistant agency is a company that serves as the bridge connecting clients with pre-vetted virtual assistants. This VA outsourcing expert has a large pool of talent that allows you to find, choose and hire VAs and swiftly build a remote global team.
What Does a VA Agency Do?
A virtual assistant agency provides a platform to find your virtual assistant who meets your unique needs. The agency handles all the complex hiring processes, from recruitment to managing your chosen VAs.
When outsourcing skilled remote workers, VA agencies are the most convenient and trustworthy platform to use.
What are the Perks of Working with a Virtual Assistant Agency?
Many companies partner with virtual assistant agencies because they can enjoy the following benefits of hiring:
Access to a Wider Talent Pool:
Virtual assistants have a vast pool of virtual assistants from all parts of the world. They have the resources and the network to connect you with exceptional VAs who can really help your business grow.
With their bursting talent pool, the chances of finding the right remote worker who fits your very unique needs are a lot higher. Whether you’re looking for a social media manager or a content writer, agencies have a list of qualified candidates for you to choose from.
Streamlined Recruitment
You won’t have to do the legwork when you hire a virtual assistant agency. They will carry all the burden of screening and onboarding your VA. These agencies have a strict selection process that separates the wheat from the chaff. Rest assured, you will only work with competent remote professionals who can measure up to your expectations.
Ultimately, you can save time and energy, enabling you to concentrate on building strategies for your business.
Instant VA Replacement
If the virtual assistant you’re currently working with is unavailable for some reason, virtual assistant agencies can easily provide another VA. And just like your chosen assistant, your backup remote worker is skilled and familiar with the work that you do. This way, you can continue operations without any disruption.
Continuous Support
The support of your virtual assistant agency doesn’t stop after placement. They will continue to train your assistant, developing their skills so they can do more for your business.
From the latest software tools to the best practises, your agency will ensure your virtual assistant is up to date. This level of guidance is truly helpful in enhancing the quality of service that you receive from your online support.
What are Independent VA Freelancers?
Independent VA freelancers are self-employed virtual assistants. They typically offer their service on a project basis, providing specialised support for your business.
What are the Perks of Hiring through Independent VAs?
While you may have to do everything when hiring independent VAs, they still come with attractive benefits, making them a good staffing alternative.
Cost-Effective
Compared to virtual assistants hired through agencies, freelance VAs are cheaper to hire. Since they operate solo, they have more control over their pricing structure, allowing you to negotiate for prices. This is an attractive feature for entrepreneurs on a tight budget who are working on long-term projects.
Close Collaboration
When you want to discuss work with your independent virtual assistant, you communicate with them directly.
Without a middleman, you have more control over the message and the level of interaction, making certain that your needs are thoroughly met. This direct communication creates a healthy working relationship that is built on trust.
Flexibility
Unbound by rigid rules or protocols, freelancers are more flexible in meeting your needs. They can scale their efforts to meet your current business demands and tailor their service to adapt to your working style.
Virtual Assistant Agency vs. Independent VA Freelancers
Now that we’ve defined a virtual assistant agency and a freelancer, it’s time to make the comparison.
Let’s weigh several factors like consistency, costs, range of tasks and more to see which virtual assistant outsourcing method is best for your business—VA agencies or independent VAs.
Are you ready?
Consistency and Reliability
Virtual assistant agencies have a reputation to uphold. This means they have to maintain a positive image by ensuring their support is always reliable and consistent.
During holidays and odd hours, VA agencies will make sure you have an assistant who can effectively manage your tasks.
Not that freelancers are unreliable, but most of them will be working with other clients. You won’t always be their priority, rendering their support inconsistent at times.
The Cost-Factor
Okay, virtual assistant companies charge more for their service. They have a predictable pricing structure that might include premium fees for accessing expertise.
In comparison, freelancers have a more flexible pricing structure. Depending on the arrangement, they can charge you per project or by hour. You can even negotiate the fees, making the costs of hiring a bit lower.
Versatility
Virtual assistant agencies provide a less flexible contract. They set terms for the VA services, which can be limiting for your evolving business needs.
On the other hand, independent virtual assistants offer flexible contracts that are adaptable to your current needs. This makes scaling operations easier since you won’t be subjected to heavy penalties.
Range of Services
You’ll be amazed at the scope of work virtual assistantcompanies can offer your business. So, if you’re looking for dynamic support that ranges from simple to complex, they are the best choice to outsource remote workers.
Conversely, freelance VAs play a more specific role in your business. They address a particular need using their personalised service.
Productivity Matters
As we mentioned, you don’t have to do anything but raise inputs when you bring in a VA agency. They will manage almost everything, including payment processing. This enables you to work on your business without being bogged down by the hiring process or management of your online assistant.
In contrast, freelancers can lead to more work. You will have to constantly track time and monitor their progress, using software tools to engage them.
Things to Ponder when Partnering with a Virtual Assistant Agency
We know you’re excited about working with a virtual assistant agency like VAV Asia. But before you greenlight that partnership, we want you to consider a few things.
Costs
A virtual assistant agency has fixed pricing for their VA services. Now these rates are a little higher compared to the other alternatives.
Nevertheless, the costs always compensate for the level of support you will be receiving. Still, we want you to think about it for your peace of mind.
Collaboration
Rest assured, VA agencies will ensure effective communication between you and your assistant. But to do that, you may have to use collaboration tools to maintain communication and workflow.
That’s why earlier on, you should set your expectations like how to communicate to avoid disruption.
Virtual Assistant FAQs
What Sets a Virtual Agent Apart from a Virtual Assistant?
A virtual assistant is a remote worker who takes care of your most tedious administrative tasks. Meanwhile, a virtual agent is a programme that uses artificial intelligence to process and respond to user requests.
What is a Virtual Assistant Company?
A virtual assistant company is a means that enables you to connect and outsource virtual assistants. They basically link remote assistants with clients, like yourself, ensuring you find a remote assistant who fits your job description in less time.
Can I Hire a Virtual Assistant for a Part-Time Position?
Yes, virtual assistants can work as part-time VAs, hired best for these particular business scenarios:
When you need to manage a few and less demanding tasks
When you have budget constraints
When you want more flexibility, getting to scale your operations as needed
The Bottom Line
In the end, deciding between a virtual assistant agency and an independent VA comes down to your needs and preferences.
However, for a startup and a growing company, what you need is reliability and consistency to handle a wide range of tasks. Advantages that can be given to you by a virtual assistant agency, saving you plenty of resources you can invest.
So, if you ever need a virtual assistant agency, VAV Asia is just the VA outsourcing expert you need to find the right remote professional who can help your business grow.