What is a Virtual Assistant, anyway?

The fact that you're reading this blog tells me that you already have a really good idea of what a virtual assistant is. There are a lot of definitions floating around out there, outlining what a VA does and doesn't do (that discussion will definitely be a post of its own!), but to me, the most important part of the definition is that a VA is a business owner. 

It seems that a common struggle among VAs, especially when building their businesses, is getting clients to understand and respect that we are not their employees. It’s a learning experience on both sides -– for the client and the VA. It can be difficult to get the differences clear in your mind, and even harder to get it across to your client without creating an awkward situation. 

Here are my tips for making the separation between business owner and employee:

• Use an independent contractor agreement
• Be very specific about what you will and won't do as part of your working relationship
• Create boundaries
• Provide services for multiple clients
• Address possible problems or misunderstandings quickly

Just keep in mind that many times working with you will be your client's first relationship with a VA. So be patient, be clear and communicate.

Comments

[Denise Willms]

That is excellent advice. Many new VAs seem to go into their first client relationships thinking like employees. They don't set boundaries ahead of time, and don't create ways to maintain control of the relationship (i.e. make the relationship work for them). For people who are interested in learning more about becoming a virtual assistant, or working with a virtual assistant, there is a truckload of free information at http://www.VAnetworking.com. There is also a forum where you can ask questions about the boundaries you need to set between yourself and your new client to ensure a positive working relationship.

[Alyssa Gregory]

Hi Denise,

Thank you for your feedback. I agree that setting boundaries and going into all client relationships with the business owner mindset is key. And yes, the VA Networking site is a great resource for VAs!

Thanks for contributing!

Alyssa