The decision to work with a Virtual Assistant or an On-site Assistant is a personal choice that usually takes into consideration many different factors. We offer Virtual Assistant support throughout the U.S. as well as direct placement services for agents that need on-site support.
Here are some things to consider when deciding between hiring a Virtual or Onsite assistant.
Virtual Assistants
Pros: With a virtual assistant, there is no need to provide work space and a computer for an additional person in your office. You also have fewer distractions in your work day because you don’t have another person working near you. A virtual assistants bill for the time they work so you don’t pay for ‘down time,” and VAs can do 80% or more of the tasks an Onsite Assistant is typically responsible for.
Cons: As an employer, you have less control over how work is done with a virtual assistant as opposed to someone working you in person. File management and organization remain the responsibility of the Agent (however most filing can be maintained electronically today.) And lack of “face time” may cause lapses in communication.
On-site Assistants
Pros: An On-site Assistant can help keep you organized and run errands for you, and their is typically a stronger personal bond between agent and assistant. With an On-Site Assistant, you have easier oversight of work being performed, and a larger range of tasks can be assigned to the assistant.
Cons: An On-site Assistant requires a separate workspace and a computer. They are generally more expensive than a Virtual Assistant (wasted time, parking, office rent, taxes, etc.) An On-site Assistant can also be a distraction for agents who are highly independent.