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It often amuses me that even with free access to so much information via the net and media, those that have even heard of the term “Virtual Assistant” (VA) think of it as simply a “typist“. Whilst it is true most VAs do word processing, it is only one of the many diverse services available.
So I thought I’d clarify by detailing some specific tasks I have performed for my clients that have made their business run more effectively.
Streamlining business processes – You know you’re just not working to your full capacity and you’re tired of the long hours and weekends. Let me find new ways of organising your business saving you time and money.
Calendar management – If you find it difficult to juggle your responsibilities, let me manage your appointments, reminders and make sure you stay on top of your daily tasklist.
Organise travel & accommodation – For that next important business trip I can locate the cheapest flights, transfers and appropriate accommodation so you can stay focused on your work.
Contact list management – All of your vital contacts are scattered everywhere – notes, emails, address books, diaries, your mobile and even in your memory. Let me centralise them all and ensure your business lists stays up to date. I can also assist with obtaining new prospects.
Networking & Social Media – We all know some form of networking is essential to your business and that social media has now taken over cyberpsace, but just where do you start? 
Managing email – Your inbox is a daily nightmare, taking up most of your mornings to sort through. As your Personal Assistant (PA), I can gain access your network and respond on your behalf, monitoring your incoming and outgoing emails freeing up your time.
Brainstorming ideas & weekly review – You’ve simply run out of steam and ideas for your business. Would you benefit from regular brainstorming sessions? Also, I could help you organise a timeline and make sure you stay on track of your goals with a weekly review.
Online research & fact finding – From products and services, to competitors or even industy research. Why spend countless hours online when you’ve got better things you need to be concentrating on?
Proofreading & editing documents – You’ve been working on that important proposal for weeks and still feel it’s not quite there. I can provide a fresh perspective, suggestions and format the document professionally.
Client billing or personal payments – A necessary evil! Quit being behind in your billing or even your personal bills and have me organise your payments.
DTP & Presentations – Let me assist with designing a new brochure, business logo or creating a powerpoint presentation.
Marketing & Promotions – Do you need assistance in a general Marketing plan and promotional activities? Let me oversee this important aspect of your business.
The most important benefit clients receive from a Virtual Assistant is having an experienced person available to you who has your best interests at heart, taking the initiative and staying one step ahead of you at all times.
Many business owners are simply too overwhelmed keeping all their plates continuously spinning, and this is when you need a Virtual Assistant the most. An extra pair of reliable hands ensuring none of those precious plates break, shattering your business’ potential.
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Hey Alexandra, a very informative and interesting post. This is good information that you’ve provided about the specific duties of a VA.
My name is Gaynor Paynter and I’m a transcriptionist from South Africa. In South Africa, our industry is what you might call ‘developing’. I’ve been a transcriptionist for nearly five years and when I first began, it was relatively new. I’d say it’s been going for about 15 yers now.
Together with a colleague Alison Fourie, we head up a forum there, TAVASA – which is for transcriptionists and virtual assistants. We try to educate people in our industries and uphold standards. Would like to take this opportunity to invite you to guest post on there if you would like.
Nice post. Thanks for properly defining the term Virtual Assistant and for sharing all your experiences. You serve as an inspiration. Salute to you!
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