Covid-19 has transformed the way we work.
Businesses are embracing digital solutions, and remote or hybrid working is the new normal for many industries.
As a result, outsourcing business tasks has never been easier – yet many people still don’t know about virtual assistants.
A virtual assistant (or VA) isn’t another AI tool! VA’s are human business administration freelancers who provide a flexible resource for your business. They work remotely, supporting business owners and leaders who outsource tasks to them.
These tasks typically fall in three areas:
- Business administration.
- Project work.
- Traditional PA work.
Hiring a VA can benefit your business in several ways:
- Increasing capacity – VAs instantly boost your capacity with no long-term employment contracts.
- Providing flexibility – VAs work flexibly across multiple departments.
- Reducing responsibilities – you don’t have to deal with PAYE or annual leave.
- Saving time – outsourcing releases valuable time for you to focus on your priorities.
- Reducing costs – on equipment, training, and recruitment.
- Providing perspective – VAs act as a sounding board, providing an outsider view.
As a business owner in Cumbria, I witness first-hand the daily challenges that businesses face with resource and staff recruitment.
I also see how dealing with these challenges consumes time, stifling growth. My business connections all have one thing in common: they need more help (and more time) to run and grow their businesses in the way they want.
Over 80% of my clients are Cumbrian businesses and knowing that my team and I help local entrepreneurs and business owners achieve more is the most satisfying part of my job.
Natalie Barker is the owner and director of M&M Business Support, offering online business management and virtual assistant services to firms in Cumbria and beyond.
