A Virtual Assistant (or simply VA), is an independent contractor providing administrative, technical, and/or creative assistance to clients--usually other independent entrepreneurs and solo and small business practices, such as that of a lawyer or realtor. Virtual assistants work from their own office (hence "virtual"), thus making it a fairly popular (and growing) profession. It is estimated that there are about 40,000-50,000 virtual assistants worldwide. Common modes of communication and data delivery include the Internet, File Transfer Protocol (FTP), and fax machine. Although the occupation gives a degree of independence, work is on a contractual basis, and a long-lasting cooperation is standard. Typically 5 years of administrative experience in an office is expected at such positions as executive assistant, secretary, legal assistant, paralegal, legal secretary, real estate assistant, office manager, etc

It is REALLY important to understand VAs are NOT employees. We are self-employed business owners. For the most part, the majority come from the corporate world with previous management, admin or clerical experience, although lately many have joined the industry bringing their experience from a number of other industry backgrounds such as bookkeeping, publishing, even accounting. Working relationships for VAs should be considered a long-term thing, just as you would plan to have a Personal Assistant, however. VAs are not employees, but they are there for the long haul.   MORE...