FAQs
What is a Virtual Assistant (VA)?
A VA is an independent entrepreneur who provides office support services to businesses or professional individuals from an off-site location. Modes of communication and information sharing are performed using email, telephone, fax, etc.
Like many of their clients, VAs are business owners themselves, so they understand the challenges of running a business. Often, a VA will become a behind-the-scenes partner with their clients, handling such tasks as administrative support, bookkeeping, scheduling, and so much more.
What kind of services do VAs offer?
There are many kinds of VAs offering many different kind of services. Here is a sampling:
Accounting Services, Business Plan Writing, Collection Services, Competitive Research, Concierge Services, Entertainment Industry Support, Event Planning, Fundraising, HR Expertise, Import-Export Support, Litigation Support, Office Management, Photography, Real Estate Support, Website Design, and many more.
For a complete list of services provided by Ripple Effect Business Solutions, please see Services page.
What is the difference between using the services a VA versus a temp agency?
A temp agency is exactly that "temporary." Majority of times you will get someone new, and if you find someone you like and works well, they don't last long, which makes it really difficult to establish any kind of working relationship.
A VA works for YOU and has a vested interest in your success. Developing a long-term working relationship means the VA gets to know your business or profession, providing services that meet all your needs.
What is the difference between using the services of a VA versus hiring an employee?
Statistics show that employees actually cost two to two-and-a-half times their hourly rate of pay when employers factor in the cost of recruitment, base salary, employment taxes, mandatory insurance, benefits, physical space, and equipment. An employee being paid $15 per hour is actually costing the employer up to $38 per hour. With a VA the working relationship is customized to meet your needs, when you need it. VAs truly are an economical solution for many businesses.
What are the benefits of using a VA?
Every industry sector from home offices to corporations, non-profits, and professionals can use the services of a VA. Some of the more obvious benefits that businesspeople gain by outsourcing to VAs:
- Improved productivity - experienced VAs know the systems and processes that need to be in place to manage an office efficiently
- Focus - working on your business rather than in it
- Increased revenue - more time to attract new clients
- Time savings - experienced VAs "ramp up" quickly so time is not lost in training
- Cost savings - VAs come with their own infrastructure
Contact Ripple Effect Business Solutions today for more information on the benefits you receive from using our services.
