A Virtual Assistant (or VA) is an independent contractor who carries out administrative and other professional services from a distance. Communication is mainly carried out through email, telephone, fax, and the internet.

The hiring process for an office person will most likely involve advertising costs and/or employment agency fees. And it can be quite frustrating to have just hired and trained someone, only to have that person quit the next week. Then the whole process starts again.

Employee costs are actually higher than you think. By hiring a VA, you save on many costs:

* Overhead (office space, furniture, equipment, etc.)
* Compensation for sick time, holidays, and vacation
* Pay for non-productive time (breaks, lunch, personal time)
* Social costs (payroll taxes, health insurance, etc.)
* Various other employee benefits such as mobile phones, etc.

Articles relating to the Virtual Assistant industry:

"Overworked? Try a Virtual Assistant"

"Hire a Virtual Assistant"

"Office Help from Afar"