Author: Connor Gillivan

Thinking about starting a virtual assistant business? 

Tired of working the 9 to 5 and want more control over your work life, schedule, and clients that you work with?

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’ve been an entrepreneur for the past 10 years and I’ve worked with 1,000’s of virtual assistant business owners.

It’s with much excitement that I write this article to talk about how you can start your own VA business and start making your income online.

Here’s what we’ll cover in the article:

• 7 Steps to Start Your Own Virtual Assistant Business
• Virtual Assistant Business Case Study
• Most Common Challenges for a Virtual Assistant Business
• Virtual Assistant Services You May Offer

7 Steps to Start Your Own Virtual Assistant Business

As an entrepreneur that has worked with 1,000’s of virtual assistant businesses, I’ve seen all of the ins and outs of starting, running, and scaling a VA business.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your existing VA business, here are my top tips for success.

1. Determine Your Services and Target Market: First things first, you need to figure out what services you’re going to offer and to whom. Are you skilled in social media management? Do you specialize in email marketing? Do you want to work with small businesses or entrepreneurs in a particular industry? Determining your services and target market is key to attracting the right clients and setting yourself up for success. Here’s a list of 30 Small Business Virtual Assistant tasks that you may be able to offer.
2. Establish Your Brand: Once you’ve figured out your services and target market, it’s time to establish your brand. This includes creating a business name, logo, website, and social media profiles. Your brand should be consistent across all channels and should accurately represent the services you offer. My recommendation is to choose one social channel, like LinkedIn, and go all in building a following there around your expertise.
3. Set Your Rates and Payment Terms: One of the biggest challenges for new VAs is figuring out how much to charge for their services. Do your research and see what other VAs in your niche are charging. Don’t undervalue your services, but also don’t overprice yourself out of the market. Once you’ve set your rates, be clear about your payment terms and make sure you have a contract in place to protect yourself and your clients. Here’s a resource on the average cost of a virtual assistant so you can see what’s currently being charged in the market.
4. Create a Marketing Plan: Marketing is crucial for any business, especially for VAs who are just starting out. Determine the best marketing channels for your business and create a plan for how you’re going to attract and retain clients. This may include social media marketing, email marketing, networking, and more. Like I said above, go for one channel and really master it before adding other channels. You can also offer your services on freelance marketplaces like Upwork and Fiverr.
5. Stay Organized: As a VA, you’ll likely be managing multiple clients and projects at once. Stay organized by using a project management tool, like Asana or Trello, to keep track of deadlines, deliverables, and communication with clients. Additionally, keep track of your expenses and invoices using an accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero.
6. Build Relationships with Clients: Building strong relationships with your clients is crucial for your VA business. Be responsive, communicate clearly, and go above and beyond to meet their needs. Happy clients are more likely to refer you to others and continue working with you in the long run.
7. Continuously Improve and Grow: Finally, always be open to learning and growing. Attend conferences, take online courses, and read industry blogs to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices. Continuously improving your skills and services will help you stand out in a crowded market and attract more clients to your VA business.

Follow these 7 steps from day 1 and you’ll be in great shape to build a thriving virtual assistant business.

Just make sure not to skip any steps!

To give you more inspiration, here’s a case study of a VA business so you can see what it will look like as you get it started and grow it.

Virtual Assistant Business Case Study

Let me share with you the inspiring story of how my friend, Anna, went from day 1 of her virtual assistant (VA) business to having 10 regular monthly clients.

Anna had always been interested in starting her own business, and after doing some research, she decided that becoming a VA would be a great fit for her skills and lifestyle.

She had a background in administration and was proficient in various computer programs, making her well-equipped to handle a variety of tasks that entrepreneurs and small business owners need help with.

Day 1: Getting Started On day 1, Anna set up her home office and created a list of services she would offer as a VA. She also spent time researching and determining her target market. She decided to focus on working with real estate agents, a field she was familiar with and passionate about.

Weeks 1-2: Establishing Her Brand Next, Anna worked on establishing her brand. She came up with a business name and created a website that showcased her services, rates, and portfolio. She also created a social media presence on LinkedIn and started networking with real estate agents in her area.

Month 1: Anna had her first client within the first month, a busy real estate agent who needed help with email management and social media marketing. This gave her the confidence she needed to keep going and start marketing her services more aggressively.

Months 2-3: Anna continued to network and market her services, and soon landed a few more clients. As she worked with each client, she made sure to provide excellent service, communication, and responsiveness. Her clients were so happy with her work that they started referring her to others, helping her build her reputation and credibility.

Months 4-6: By the fourth month, Anna had reached her goal of having 10 regular monthly clients. She continued to work hard, providing high-quality work and building strong relationships with each client. As her client base grew, she was able to hire an assistant to help her with administrative tasks and other duties, freeing up more time for her to focus on serving her clients.

Today: Fast forward to today, and Anna’s VA business is thriving. She has a steady stream of clients and is making a comfortable living doing work she loves. She’s able to work from home and set her own schedule, giving her the flexibility and freedom she’s always wanted.

Anna’s journey to success as a virtual assistant shows that with hard work, determination, and a little bit of luck, anyone can turn their dream of owning a business into a reality.

It all starts with taking that first step and staying committed to your goals.

Most Common Challenges for a Virtual Assistant Business

Starting a virtual assistant (VA) business can be an exciting and rewarding venture, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.

Here are some of the most common challenges you may face when starting a VA business:

1. Finding clients – Finding and attracting clients is one of the biggest challenges that many VA businesses face. You’ll need to invest time and effort into marketing your services, building your brand, and networking with potential clients.
2. Setting prices – One of the most challenging aspects of starting a VA business is setting prices that are competitive and fair. You’ll need to do market research and consider factors such as your experience, skills, and the value you provide to clients.
3. Managing time – As a VA, you’ll likely be juggling multiple clients and projects at once, which can be challenging to manage. You’ll need to have strong time-management skills and be able to prioritize tasks effectively.
4. Staying organized – Staying organized is essential when running a VA business. You’ll need to keep track of client information, project details, deadlines, and invoicing. It’s important to have systems and tools in place to help you stay on top of everything.
5. Building trust – As a VA, you’ll be working with clients remotely, which can make it challenging to build trust and establish a strong working relationship. It’s essential to communicate clearly and effectively, be responsive to client needs, and deliver high-quality work to build trust and credibility.
6. Keeping up with technology – As a VA, you’ll need to stay up to date with the latest technology and software tools to provide the best services to your clients. This can be a challenge, as technology is constantly evolving.

Starting a virtual assistant business comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right mindset, skills, and strategies in place, you can overcome these challenges and build a successful business.

It’s important to be prepared for the challenges that may arise and to have a plan in place to address them.

Virtual Assistant Services You May Offer

As a virtual assistant (VA), there are a wide variety of services that you can offer to busy entrepreneurs to help them manage their businesses and stay organized.

Here is a list of virtual assistant services that you might offer:

1. Administrative tasks: This can include tasks such as email management, scheduling, appointment setting, travel arrangements, and data entry.
2. Social media management: Many entrepreneurs need help managing their social media accounts, including creating and scheduling posts, responding to messages and comments, and monitoring analytics.
3. Content creation: You can offer services such as blog post writing, copywriting, editing, and proofreading.
4. Customer service: Providing customer service through phone, email, or chat is a common VA service that many entrepreneurs outsource.
5. Bookkeeping: Many small business owners need help with managing their finances, including invoicing, managing accounts payable and receivable, and reconciling bank accounts.
6. Project management: As a VA, you can help entrepreneurs manage projects by keeping track of deadlines, delegating tasks, and keeping everyone on track.
7. Research: Many entrepreneurs need help with research, including market research, competitor analysis, and product research.
8. Website management: This can include tasks such as updating content, managing plugins and updates, and monitoring website analytics.
9. Email marketing: Many entrepreneurs use email marketing to reach their audience, and a VA can help with tasks such as creating and scheduling campaigns, managing subscriber lists, and monitoring analytics.
10. Online business management: As a VA, you can help entrepreneurs manage their online businesses, including managing online marketplaces, responding to customer inquiries, and managing inventory.

These are just a few examples of the many services that a virtual assistant can offer to busy entrepreneurs. Here’s a more extensive list of 30 virtual assistant services that you may decide to offer.

As a VA, you can tailor your services to meet the specific needs of each client, and offer a customized solution that helps them run their business more efficiently.

My recommendation is to niche down, choose a specific client that you want to work with (for example: marketing agency owners), and offer specific services that meet the needs of your ideal client.

Riches are in the niches!

What Is Outsource School?

Outsource School helps you to unlock the potential of virtual assistants and accelerate your business growth.

This is the exact system Outsource School’s founders, Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, used to go from zero to 8 figures and 40+ virtual assistants with an exit in 2019.

Since being founded in 2020, Outsource School has helped 1,000+ business owners hire 2,000+ virtual assistants for their companies.

Schedule a free sales call to learn more

Free resources you might like: 

• Outsource School Case Study: How We Scaled to 45+ VAs and 8 Figures in Revenue
• Free VA Calculator | See How Many VAs You Can Afford
• Free Training on 5 Keys to Working With VAs
• Learn Outsourcing 101 | Guides, Downloads, and Checklists

Conclusion

In conclusion, starting a virtual assistant business can be a challenging, yet incredibly rewarding experience.

As a VA, you have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients and help them manage their businesses more efficiently, all while enjoying the flexibility and freedom that comes with being your own boss.

While there may be challenges along the way, such as finding clients, setting prices, and managing your time effectively, these are all things that can be overcome with the right mindset, skills, and strategies in place.

Remember that starting a VA business is a journey, and it’s important to take it one step at a time.

Set achievable goals, develop your skills, and stay focused on providing high-quality services to your clients.

With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful VA business that allows you to enjoy the freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment that comes with being your own boss.

So, if you’re considering starting a virtual assistant business, know that it’s a path that’s filled with endless opportunities and possibilities.

Take the leap, believe in yourself, and you might just find that the possibilities are endless.

We hope this helps!

Are you looking to hire a small business virtual assistant?

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m an entrepreneur and small business owner that has hired 100s of virtual assistants for my companies.

I’ve seen the impact that a virtual assistant can have on your business and how it can help free up your time to work on growth, instead of operations and mundane tasks.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What Is a Small Business Virtual Assistant?
• 30 Tasks a Small Business Virtual Assistant Can Take On
• Where Can You Find a VA For Your Small Business?
• How Much Does a Small Business VA Cost?

By the end of the article, you should have a strong grip on what a small business VA is, what they can do for your business, and how you can go about hiring one.

Let’s dive into it!

What Is a Small Business Virtual Assistant?

So, you’re running a business all on your own, and it’s taking up all of your time, energy, and probably your sanity too.

You’re feeling overwhelmed and struggling to keep up with everything.

That’s where a small business virtual assistant comes in.

Think of a virtual assistant as your own personal superhero who can handle all the tasks you don’t have time for.

They’re a remote worker who can help you with anything from email management to social media to bookkeeping. They’re like a jack-of-all-trades, but for your business.

The beauty of a virtual assistant is that you don’t have to worry about office space or equipment.

They work from their own office, so you don’t need to provide a computer, desk, or anything else.

And you only pay for the hours they work, which can be a real lifesaver for a small business owner like you.

Plus, you get the added bonus of having someone to bounce ideas off of, and someone who can offer a fresh perspective on your business. They’re like a sounding board, but one that can actually do things for you too.

So, to sum it up, a small business virtual assistant is like having a magical unicorn on your team.

They’re there to help with all the stuff you don’t want to deal with, and they do it all from their own office.

They’re a true lifesaver for a busy digital entrepreneur like yourself!

Does that make sense?

Now let’s get more specific and talk about what they can actually help your small business with.

As you look at the 30 tasks below, here’s also a video that shows how an entrepreneur hired virtual assistants and built his business to 7 figures with them:

30 Tasks a Small Business Virtual Assistant Can Take On

As you start to think about how a small business virtual assistant can help you free up your time, consider these 30 tasks:

1. Email management: Sorting, responding to, and filtering emails from various email accounts.
2. Social media management: Scheduling posts, creating content, monitoring analytics, and responding to comments.
3. Customer support: Responding to customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback through email or social media.
4. Administrative tasks: Organizing files, scheduling meetings, and managing calendars.
5. Data entry: Entering and managing data in spreadsheets, databases, or other systems.
6. Bookkeeping: Keeping track of finances, invoicing, and managing expenses.
7. Website maintenance: Updating and managing website content, fixing broken links, and managing web hosting.
8. Content creation: Writing blog posts, creating infographics, or recording videos.
9. Research: Conducting research on various topics, compiling reports, or summarizing findings.
10. Online reputation management: Monitoring brand mentions and responding to reviews on third-party sites.
11. SEO optimization: Researching keywords and optimizing website content for search engines.
12. Graphic design: Creating social media posts, banners, or other marketing materials.
13. Video editing: Editing and publishing videos for social media or YouTube.
14. Affiliate management: Managing and communicating with affiliate partners.
15. Influencer outreach: Reaching out to influencers and managing relationships.
16. Newsletter management: Creating and sending newsletters to subscribers.
17. Event planning: Organizing and coordinating events, webinars, or online workshops.
18. Project management: Managing projects and coordinating tasks among team members.
19. Content marketing: Developing and executing content marketing strategies.
20. Lead generation: Identifying potential customers and nurturing leads.
21. Sales funnel management: Developing and optimizing sales funnels.
22. Ad management: Creating and managing online ad campaigns.
23. Analytics tracking: Setting up and monitoring website and social media analytics.
24. Customer segmentation: Organizing customer lists into segments for more targeted marketing.
25. E-commerce management: Managing online store inventory, orders, and shipping.
26. Product listing optimization: Optimizing product listings on e-commerce platforms for better search results.
27. Virtual event management: Planning and executing virtual events such as webinars, workshops, or online conferences.
28. Chatbot creation: Creating and maintaining chatbots for customer support or lead generation.
29. Podcast editing: Editing and publishing podcasts for distribution on various platforms.
30. Market research: Conducting research on industry trends, competitors, and customer behavior to inform business decisions.

I’ve hired small business VAs for the majority of these tasks throughout my 10 years of being an entrepreneur.

Once you understand the power of VAs and how to find and hire them, you truly unlock a new potential in your business that you didn’t have before.

Hopefully this list just got you excited and ready to go.

Let’s now talk about where you find these amazing small business virtual assistants.

Where Can You Find a VA For Your Small Business?

Here are five popular platforms where you can find and hire a small business virtual assistant online:

1. Upwork: Upwork is one of the largest freelance marketplaces online, with a diverse pool of talent available from all over the world. You can post a job listing for a virtual assistant and browse through profiles to find the right person for your business.
2. Fiverr: Fiverr is another popular freelance marketplace where you can find virtual assistants for a wide range of tasks. You can browse through profiles and reviews, and hire someone for a set fee per project or per hour.
3. Freelancer.com: Freelancer.com is a global marketplace for freelancers and employers, including virtual assistants. You can post a job listing and receive proposals from qualified candidates, or search for freelancers based on their skills and experience.
4. Onlinejobs.ph: Onlinejobs.ph is a platform that specializes in connecting business owners with virtual assistants in the Philippines. The site has a large pool of experienced and skilled candidates, and you can hire a virtual assistant for a full-time or part-time position.
5. FreeUp: FreeUp is a freelance marketplace that pre-vets thousands of virtual assistants and freelancers each month and only allows the top 1% into the network. You can post a job and get introduced to qualified applicants within 1 day.

In my experience, Upwork, OnlineJobs.ph, and FreeUp are my favorite and offer the best experience for hiring VAs.

When you’re posting a job on each platform, aim for VAs from the Philippines.

With that, let’s talk more about how much you can expect to pay for small business VAs.

How Much Does a Small Business VA Cost?

The cost of hiring a small business virtual assistant can vary depending on several factors such as:

• the country they are based in
• their experience and skills
• the specific tasks you need them to handle.

If you are hiring a virtual assistant from the Philippines, the cost is generally more affordable than hiring from other countries.

Virtual assistants from the Philippines typically charge around $4 to $10 per hour, depending on their experience and skills.

This is because the cost of living in the Philippines is lower than in the United States or other Western countries.

When hiring a virtual assistant from the United States, the cost is usually higher.

The average hourly rate for a virtual assistant in the United States ranges from $20 to $40 per hour, depending on their level of experience and the services they provide.

This is because the cost of living and wages in the United States are generally higher than in other countries.

If you are considering hiring a virtual assistant from other popular countries such as India or Pakistan, the cost is usually in the lower range, similar to the rates for virtual assistants from the Philippines.

The hourly rate for virtual assistants from these countries is typically around $5 to $15 per hour, again depending on their experience and skills.

Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that these are just general estimates and that the rates for virtual assistants can vary widely based on their qualifications, the complexity of the tasks you need them to handle, and the specific terms of your agreement.

It’s always a good idea to do your research and compare rates from several virtual assistant candidates to find the best fit for your business and budget.

It’s also important to keep in mind that virtual assistant rates depend on where you hire them from as well.

If you’re hiring from a marketplace (like the ones listed above), you’ll pay an additional marketplace fee on top of the virtual assistant’s rate.

What Is Outsource School?

Outsource School helps you to unlock the potential of virtual assistants and accelerate your business growth.

This is the exact system Outsource School’s founders, Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, used to go from zero to 8 figures and 40+ virtual assistants with an exit in 2019.

Since being founded in 2020, Outsource School has helped 1,000+ business owners hire 2,000+ virtual assistants for their companies.

Schedule a free sales call to learn more

Free resources you might like: 

• Outsource School Case Study: How We Scaled to 45+ VAs and 8 Figures in Revenue
• Free VA Calculator | See How Many VAs You Can Afford
• Free Training on 5 Keys to Working With VAs
• Learn Outsourcing 101 | Guides, Downloads, and Checklists

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of our article on 30 tasks a small business virtual assistant can take on.

By now, you should have a good idea of the many ways that a virtual assistant can help you grow and manage your online business.

As you’ve seen, a virtual assistant can take on a wide range of tasks, from social media management to email marketing to bookkeeping and beyond.

Hiring a virtual assistant can help you save time, stay organized, and increase your productivity, which are all essential factors for a successful digital business.

But beyond the practical benefits, hiring a virtual assistant can also give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on the aspects of your business that you enjoy the most.

You can feel confident knowing that someone else is handling the day-to-day tasks, while you focus on the big picture and the long-term growth of your business.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed and overworked, consider hiring a virtual assistant to help you manage your workload and take your business to the next level.

Whether you need help with customer service, content creation, or administrative tasks, there’s a virtual assistant out there who can help.

Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone.

By outsourcing tasks to a virtual assistant, you can free up your time and energy, allowing you to focus on the things that matter most.

Good luck, and happy virtual assistant hunting!

Ready to hire a social media virtual assistant (VA)?

Social media for your business or personal brand taking too much time?

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m an entrepreneur and I’ve been running social media campaigns for the past 10 years.

No matter how much I master a social media channel, there’s always too much work to do.

• Posting daily
• Commenting on posts
• Engaging with comments on my posts
• Connecting with new people
• Learning from others
• Handling DMs

The list goes on and on.

If you’re running social media for your personal brand or business, I’m sure you can relate.

That’s why I put this article together…so that others have a framework for hiring a social media virtual assistant.

A social media VA can help get your time back while keeping your social media strategy going consistently and smoothly.

In this article, we’ll cover:

1. What Is A Social Media Virtual Assistant (VA)?
2. Social Media VA Case Study
3. 25 Tasks a Social Media Virtual Assistant Can Handle For You
4. How Much Does A Social Media Virtual Assistant Cost?
5. Where Can You Find a Good Social Media VA?

What Is A Social Media Virtual Assistant (VA)?

A social media virtual assistant (VA) is like having a sidekick to handle all your social media needs.

They’re a remote worker who can handle tasks like:

• managing your social media accounts
• creating content
• running ads
• managing your online community.

Think of them as your very own social media superhero!

Hiring a social media VA can save you time, money, and the headache of managing it all on your own.

They can help take your social media presence to the next level and give you the freedom to focus on other important aspects of your business.

Social Media VA Case Study

Meet Sarah, a digital entrepreneur who was struggling to manage her social media presence on her own.

She was spending hours every day creating content, posting, responding to comments, and managing her community.

She knew she needed help but wasn’t sure where to turn.

One day, Sarah stumbled upon the idea of hiring a social media virtual assistant.

She did some research and found the perfect fit – a freelancer who specialized in social media management.

Sarah was a bit nervous at first, but after a few interviews and checking references, she decided to take the plunge and hired her social media VA.

Before making the hire, Sarah’s life was hectic.

She was juggling everything on her own, from content creation to community management, and it was taking up all her time.

She was constantly stressed, trying to keep up with the latest trends, and her social media presence suffered because of it.

Now that Sarah has a social media VA, her life has completely changed.

She has more time to focus on her business and personal life.

Her VA handles all her social media tasks, like posting, scheduling, and community management.

Sarah no longer feels the pressure of having to keep up with the latest trends, and she has more time to work on other important aspects of her business.

She can also enjoy her personal life without constantly worrying about her social media presence.

Overall, hiring a social media virtual assistant has been a game-changer for Sarah.

She’s been able to take her business to the next level, and she has more time to do the things she loves.

If you’re struggling to manage your social media presence, hiring a social media VA might be just what you need to take your business to the next level.

Let’s look at 25 ways that a Social Media VA can help you out.

25 Tasks a Social Media Virtual Assistant Can Handle For You

1. Content creation
2. Social media management
3. Hashtag research
4. Competitor analysis
5. Content curation
6. Social media ad management
7. Analytics reporting
8. Graphic design
9. Video editing
10. Content promotion
11. Community management
12. Influencer outreach
13. Customer service
14. Social listening
15. LinkedIn profile optimization
16. LinkedIn lead generation
17. Instagram story creation
18. Instagram reels creation
19. Twitter management
20. Facebook group management
21. Pinterest management
22. Blog management
23. Email marketing
24. Facebook ad management
25. YouTube video editing and optimization

Want further inspiration for tasks to pass off to your social media VA? Check out this video:

How Much Does A Social Media Virtual Assistant Cost?

The cost of hiring a social media VA can vary depending on the level of experience and location you’re hiring from.

In general, a beginner-level social media VA might charge around $10-$20 per hour, while a more experienced VA could charge upwards of $30-$50 per hour.

However, keep in mind that rates can also vary based on the location of the VA.

For example, a VA based in the United States or Europe might charge more than a VA based in a developing country, like the Philippines or India.

If you’re looking to hire a social media VA, it’s important to set a budget and determine what tasks you want them to handle.

Some VA’s might have a set rate per hour, while others might charge a monthly retainer fee or project-based rate.

It’s important to communicate your budget and expectations upfront to make sure you find a VA that’s a good fit for your needs.

In the end, the cost of hiring a social media VA can be well worth it if it frees up your time and allows you to focus on other aspects of your business.

Just remember to do your research, set a budget, and communicate your expectations clearly to find the right fit for your business.

Where Can You Find a Good Social Media VA?

There are several places where you can find a good social media virtual assistant (VA). Here are five sites to start with:

1. Upwork: Upwork is a popular freelance marketplace where you can find VAs with social media expertise. You can browse through profiles, check reviews, and even conduct interviews with potential candidates.
2. Fiverr: Fiverr is another popular platform for finding freelance VAs. They have a wide range of social media experts available, and you can see samples of their work and check their ratings and reviews.
3. Freelancer.com: Freelancer.com is a global freelance marketplace where you can find VAs from around the world. They have a category specifically for social media experts, and you can see the hourly rate and location of each candidate.
4. Onlinejobs.ph: If you’re looking for a VA based in the Philippines, Onlinejobs.ph is a great resource. They have a large pool of talented VAs with social media expertise, and you can browse through profiles and contact candidates directly.
5. PeoplePerHour: PeoplePerHour is a UK-based freelance marketplace that has a wide range of VAs with social media expertise. You can search for freelancers by category or skill set and read reviews and ratings from past clients.

When it comes to finding a social media VA, there are many countries you can look to for talent.

Some popular countries include the Philippines, India, and Bangladesh, where VAs can be more affordable.

However, keep in mind that location shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision.

You should also consider the VA’s experience, skills, and communication abilities.

With the right research and communication, you can find a social media VA that’s the perfect fit for your business.

What Is Outsource School?

Outsource School helps you to unlock the potential of virtual assistants and accelerate your business growth.

This is the exact system Outsource School’s founders, Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, used to go from zero to 8 figures and 40+ virtual assistants with an exit in 2019.

Since being founded in 2020, Outsource School has helped 1,000+ business owners hire 2,000+ virtual assistants for their companies.

Schedule a free sales call to learn more

Free resources you might like: 

• Outsource School Case Study: How We Scaled to 45+ VAs and 8 Figures in Revenue
• Free VA Calculator | See How Many VAs You Can Afford
• Free Training on 5 Keys to Working With VAs
• Learn Outsourcing 101 | Guides, Downloads, and Checklists

Conclusion

Hiring a social media virtual assistant (VA) can be a game changer for your personal branding or business social media strategy.

I’ve seen it first hand and I’ve also see other entrepreneurs tap into this as a way to free up their time while keeping their social media growing.

If you’re considering hiring a Social Media VA, consider joining Outsource School to get our exact hiring system.

You’ll be able to learn it within a couple of hours then apply it to hiring a rock star to manage your social media.

If you have questions, feel free to reach out to us at Support@OutsourceSchool.com.

Happy hiring!

As a blogger, you know that there are never enough hours in the day to get everything done.

Between writing blog posts, promoting your content, and engaging with your audience, it can be tough to find time to do everything on your own.

That’s where a virtual assistant for bloggers (also known as a blogging VA or VA for bloggers) can come in handy.

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m an entrepreneur and blogger. I’ve been running blogs for my companies for the past 10 years and there’s always too much to do.

I’ve tapped into the power of blogging VAs and it’s allowed me to focus my time on the most important aspects of growth.

It’s saved me time, given me more focus, and allowed me to make more money with my blogging.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 tasks that a virtual assistant for bloggers can do to help you grow your blog and free up your time.

1. Editing and proofreading blog posts
2. Scheduling social media posts
3. Responding to comments on your blog and social media channels
4. Managing your email inbox
5. Researching and creating content ideas
6. Formatting blog posts and creating graphics
7. Managing your editorial calendar
8. Conducting keyword research for SEO
9. Outreach for guest posting or collaborations
10. Creating and sending newsletters
11. Recording and editing podcasts
12. Managing your website’s maintenance and updates
13. Creating and managing your affiliate program
14. Transcribing video or audio content
15. Managing your blog’s monetization strategy

Let’s dive in.

How a Virtual Assistant  Can Be Super Helpful for Bloggers

To really understand the value of a virtual assistant for bloggers, let’s take a look at a case study.

Meet Lisa, a digital marketing consultant who runs her own blog on the side.

Lisa had been struggling to keep up with the demands of her growing blog.

She found herself spending more and more time on administrative tasks like scheduling social media posts and responding to emails.

Lisa knew that something had to change if she wanted to keep growing her blog while also running her consulting business.

That’s when she decided to hire a virtual assistant for her blog.

Lisa’s blogging VA was able to take over many of the administrative tasks that were taking up so much of her time.

This allowed Lisa to focus on creating high-quality content and promoting her blog.

Her VA helped with everything from scheduling social media posts to editing blog posts to managing her email inbox.

With the help of her VA, Lisa was able to grow her blog and her consulting business without feeling overwhelmed by all the work.

You can do this too.

Let’s now look at 15 tasks that a Blogging VA can help you with.

15 Tasks a Virtual Assistant for Bloggers Can Do

So, what exactly can a virtual assistant for bloggers do? Here are 15 tasks that a blogging VA can handle:

1. Editing and proofreading blog posts

A virtual assistant can ensure that your blog posts are free of errors and read smoothly by editing and proofreading them. They can also suggest changes to improve your writing style or make sure your posts meet your branding and messaging requirements.

2. Scheduling social media posts

A virtual assistant can schedule your social media posts in advance, ensuring that your social media presence remains consistent even when you’re busy with other tasks.

3. Responding to comments on your blog and social media channels

A virtual assistant can monitor your blog and social media channels for comments and respond to them on your behalf. This ensures that your audience feels heard and valued while freeing up your time to focus on other tasks.

4. Managing your email inbox

A virtual assistant can manage your email inbox by responding to emails, categorizing them, and even filtering out spam. This helps keep your inbox organized and prevents you from getting overwhelmed with messages.

5. Researching and creating content ideas

A virtual assistant can research and suggest ideas for your blog content, ensuring that your content is always fresh and relevant to your target audience.

6. Formatting blog posts and creating graphics

A virtual assistant can format your blog posts, ensuring that they look professional and are easy to read. They can also create graphics or visual aids to accompany your blog posts.

7. Managing your editorial calendar

A virtual assistant can manage your editorial calendar, ensuring that your blog posts are published on schedule and that there is a steady flow of content.

8. Conducting keyword research for SEO

A virtual assistant can conduct keyword research to help you optimize your blog posts for search engines, ensuring that your blog ranks higher in search results and attracts more traffic.

9. Outreach for guest posting or collaborations

A virtual assistant can reach out to other bloggers or brands for guest posting or collaborations, helping you build relationships with other bloggers or businesses in your niche.

10. Creating and sending newsletters

A virtual assistant can create and send newsletters to your subscribers, providing them with valuable content and keeping them engaged with your brand.

11. Recording and editing podcasts

A virtual assistant can record and edit your podcasts, ensuring that they are of high quality and sound professional.

12. Managing your website’s maintenance and updates

A virtual assistant can manage your website’s maintenance and updates, ensuring that it runs smoothly and is always up to date.

13. Creating and managing your affiliate program

A virtual assistant can create and manage your affiliate program, ensuring that your affiliates have the resources they need to promote your brand and earn commissions.

14. Transcribing video or audio content

A virtual assistant can transcribe your video or audio content, making it easier to repurpose or share in other formats.

15. Managing your blog’s monetization strategy

A virtual assistant can manage your blog’s monetization strategy, helping you generate revenue through ads, affiliate marketing, or other channels.

Tips for Hiring a Blogging VA

Now that you know what a virtual assistant for bloggers can do, how do you go about hiring one?

Here are a few tips:

1. Start by defining the tasks that you need help with. This will make it easier to find a VA who has the right skills and experience.
2. Look for VAs who specialize in blogging or have experience working with bloggers.
3. Conduct interviews and ask for references to ensure that the VA you hire is a good fit for your business.
4. Set clear expectations and communicate regularly with your VA to ensure that they are meeting your needs.
5. Consider working with a reputable outsourcing agency like Outsource School to make the hiring process easier and more efficient.

Overall, take the time to plan for hiring a Blogging VA before you jump in.

The more time you invest in getting properly prepared, the more successful the hire and relationship will be.

Where Can You Hire A VA For Your Blog?

There are a variety of options available for hiring a virtual assistant for your blog.

One popular option is to use a freelancing platform such as Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, or Workello, which allow you to post job listings and connect with potential candidates.

You can also search for virtual assistant services that specialize in providing VAs for bloggers or small businesses, such as Virtual Staff Finder, Zirtual, or Virtual Assistant Assistant.

When hiring a virtual assistant, it’s important to do your due diligence by:

• conducting interviews
• check references
• providing clear instructions
• setting expectations for your VA

You should also be prepared to invest time and resources into training your VA and providing ongoing support to ensure that they can help you achieve your business goals.

You can also learn more from Chris Ducker in this video:

What is Outsource School?

Outsource School is an online platform and community that helps entrepreneurs and small business owners scale their businesses by outsourcing tasks to virtual assistants.

The platform was founded by Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, who have over a decade of experience in managing remote teams and outsourcing tasks.

Outsource School offers a range of resources, including courses, coaching, and on-demand assistance, to help business owners learn how to delegate tasks effectively, manage their teams, and scale their businesses.

Their courses cover topics such as hiring and onboarding virtual assistants, delegating tasks, managing your team, and optimizing your business processes.

Overall, Outsource School is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to grow their businesses by outsourcing tasks and building a remote team.

Get immediate access to Outsource School today and start scaling your blog with the help of virtual assistants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hiring a virtual assistant for your blog can be a game-changer for your business.

By delegating tasks and freeing up your time, you can focus on creating high-quality content and growing your audience, while your VA takes care of the day-to-day tasks that can consume so much of your time.

From editing and proofreading blog posts to managing your website’s maintenance and updates, there are many tasks that a virtual assistant can handle for your blog.

Additionally, virtual assistants can help with social media management, email inbox management, content creation, podcast editing, outreach, and more.

By working with a virtual assistant, you can streamline your workflow, reduce your workload, and grow your business faster.

If you’re interested in hiring a virtual assistant for your blog, reach out to us at Outsource School and we can explain how we can help.

Similarly, set up a call with us and we’ll answer any questions you have as you dive into hiring a virtual assistant for your blog.

Want to hire a Sales Virtual Assistant, but not sure how?

You came to the right place.

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m an entrepreneur and have been scaling companies to 6, 7, and 8 figures for the past 10 years with virtual assistants from around the world.

With my companies, I’ve hired and managed Sales Virtual Assistants to take sales work off my plate so that I can focus on other areas of growth and operations.

You can do the same.

In this article, I’ll cover: 

• What Is a Sales Virtual Assistant?
• What Does a Virtual Sales Agent Do?
• How Do I Use a Virtual Assistant for Sales?
• How Much Does a Sales Virtual Assistant Cost?
• Where Can I Find a Sales Virtual Assistant?
• Sales Virtual Assistant Case Study
• What Is Outsource School?

Let’s dive into it!

What Is A Sales Virtual Assistant?

A sales virtual assistant is a remote professional who specializes in providing support for businesses in the sales department.

They use their skills and knowledge to assist entrepreneurs in running and growing their digital companies by handling various sales-related tasks.

Some of the tasks a sales virtual assistant might handle include:

• lead generation
• customer relationship management
• sales pipeline management
• email marketing
• social media management
• data analysis
• appointment scheduling.

They work remotely, which means they can provide support from anywhere in the world, as long as they have a reliable internet connection.

The beauty of a sales virtual assistant is that they can help you save time and money.

By outsourcing sales tasks to a virtual assistant, you can focus on other aspects of your business that require your attention.

Plus, you won’t need to worry about hiring additional in-house staff, which can be costly and time-consuming.

When you work with a sales virtual assistant, you’ll have a dedicated professional who can help you improve your sales strategy and achieve your business goals.

They’ll work with you to understand your needs and provide personalized support to help you succeed.

What Does a Virtual Sales Agent Do?

A Sales Virtual Assistant can do the following:

1. Lead Generation: Your sales virtual assistant can help you find potential customers for your business. They can use tools like LinkedIn or social media to search for individuals or companies that might be interested in your products or services.
2. Email Marketing: A sales virtual assistant can help you create and send out email campaigns to promote your business. They can also help with email list management, ensuring that your emails are being sent to the right people.
3. Customer Relationship Management: Keeping track of your customers’ needs, interests, and purchases is essential for your business’s success. Your sales virtual assistant can manage your customer database, keep it up to date, and make sure that your customers are receiving the right communications from you.
4. Sales Pipeline Management: Your sales virtual assistant can help you manage your sales pipeline, ensuring that you’re following up with leads and closing deals. They can help you create a sales process that works for your business and make sure that you’re staying on top of your sales goals.
5. Social Media Management: Your sales virtual assistant can help you manage your social media accounts, creating content, and scheduling posts. They can also engage with your followers and respond to comments and messages.
6. Data Analysis: Your sales virtual assistant can help you analyze your sales data, identify trends and opportunities, and make recommendations for improving your sales strategy.
7. Appointment Scheduling: Your sales virtual assistant can manage your calendar and schedule appointments with potential customers, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.

These are only 7 tasks that we’ve outlined, but there are plenty more depending on what sales tasks you have on your plate.

Get creative, list out all of the tasks currently on your plate, build a process for them, and then delegate them to a Sales VA.

How Do I Use a Virtual Assistant for Sales?

Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Identify your needs: The first step is to identify the specific sales tasks that you need help with. This might include lead generation, email marketing, social media management, or sales pipeline management. Make a list of the tasks you need help with to give your virtual assistant a clear idea of what you’re looking for.
2. Find the right virtual assistant: Next, you’ll need to find a sales virtual assistant who has the skills and experience to support your business. You can search for virtual assistants on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. Make sure to read their reviews and check their credentials to ensure they’re a good fit for your business.
3. Set clear expectations: Once you’ve found a virtual assistant, it’s important to set clear expectations. Let them know what you expect from them, including the tasks you need help with, your sales goals, and the timeline for completing tasks. Be clear about your communication preferences and how often you expect to receive updates.
4. Provide training and resources: Depending on the tasks you need help with, you may need to provide your virtual assistant with training or access to specific tools or software. Make sure to provide them with the resources they need to succeed.
5. Communicate regularly: Regular communication is key to a successful working relationship with your virtual assistant. Schedule weekly or bi-weekly check-ins to discuss progress, provide feedback, and address any concerns.
6. Give feedback: Finally, make sure to give your virtual assistant feedback on their work. Let them know what they’re doing well and where they can improve. This will help them to better understand your needs and provide even better support for your business.

You’ll get out as much as you put in with your Sales VA.

Try to just hire someone and let them run free and you’re going to experience headaches.

Take the time to strategize exactly how they can help, to onboard them, and to train them properly, and you’ll hit a home run with your hire.

Want to learn more about how to use a Sales Virtual Assistant? Check out this video:

How Much Does a Sales Virtual Assistant Cost?

The cost of a sales virtual assistant can vary depending on their experience, skills, location, and the tasks you need them to handle.

Some virtual assistants may charge hourly rates, while others may charge a fixed fee for a specific project or ongoing support.

In general, you can expect to pay between $10 and $50 per hour for a sales virtual assistant, with the average rate being around $15-20 per hour.

However, keep in mind that rates may vary based on the factors mentioned above.

When considering the cost of a sales virtual assistant, it’s important to think about the value they can provide to your business.

By outsourcing sales tasks to a virtual assistant, you can save time and focus on other aspects of your business.

Plus, you can benefit from their expertise and experience, which can help you improve your sales strategy and achieve your business goals.

Where Can I Find a Sales Virtual Assistant?

Here are four websites where you can hire a sales virtual assistant for your online company:

1. Upwork: Upwork is one of the largest freelance marketplaces in the world, offering a wide range of freelance services, including sales virtual assistants. You can post a job listing or search for virtual assistants with sales expertise to find the right fit for your business.
2. Onlinejobs.ph: Onlinejobs.ph is a platform that connects entrepreneurs with virtual assistants based in the Philippines. You can search for virtual assistants with sales expertise and hire them directly through the platform.
3. Fiverr: Fiverr is a freelance marketplace that offers a range of services, including sales virtual assistants. You can search for virtual assistants with sales expertise and hire them for specific tasks or ongoing support.
4. Freelancer: Freelancer is a global freelancing platform that offers a variety of services, including sales virtual assistants. You can post a job listing or search for virtual assistants with sales expertise to find the right fit for your business.

When hiring from a freelance marketplace, make sure that you create a high quality job post, that you review all applicants, and that you interview them in depth before making the hire.

It’s important to set expectations upfront and to make sure they are a perfect fit before you get into the onboarding and training phase of hiring.

Sales Virtual Assistant Case Study

Background:

John is the owner of a small marketing agency that specializes in social media marketing for small businesses. He started the agency three years ago and has been able to grow his client base steadily over the years. However, as the agency grew, John found himself overwhelmed with sales tasks, such as cold calling, lead generation, and client onboarding. He knew that he needed to focus on other aspects of the business, such as strategy and client management, but he simply didn’t have enough time to do everything. That’s when he decided to hire a sales virtual assistant.

Life before hiring a sales virtual assistant:

Before hiring a sales virtual assistant, John was spending most of his time on sales tasks. He would spend hours each day making cold calls, following up on leads, and onboarding new clients. He found himself getting burnt out and felt like he wasn’t able to focus on other important aspects of the business. He also felt like he was missing out on potential business opportunities because he didn’t have the time to follow up with leads consistently.

Hiring a sales virtual assistant:

John decided to hire a sales virtual assistant to help him with the sales tasks that were taking up most of his time. He posted a job listing on a freelancing platform and received several applications from virtual assistants with sales expertise. After a thorough screening process, he hired a virtual assistant who had experience in cold calling, lead generation, and client onboarding. He trained the virtual assistant on the agency’s sales process and provided them with the necessary tools to get the job done.

Life after hiring a sales virtual assistant:

After hiring a sales virtual assistant, John’s life changed significantly. He was able to delegate most of the sales tasks to the virtual assistant, which gave him more time to focus on other important aspects of the business. He was able to spend more time on client management, strategy, and developing new services. He also found that he was able to follow up with leads more consistently, which resulted in more business opportunities and a higher conversion rate. He no longer felt overwhelmed with sales tasks and was able to work on the business instead of in the business.

Conclusion:

Hiring a sales virtual assistant was a game-changer for John’s marketing agency. By delegating sales tasks to a virtual assistant, he was able to save time, reduce stress, and focus on other important aspects of the business. He was also able to follow up with leads more consistently, which resulted in more business opportunities and a higher conversion rate. If you’re a digital entrepreneur who is overwhelmed with sales tasks, hiring a sales virtual assistant may be the solution you need to take your business to the next level.

What Is Outsource School?

Outsource School helps you to unlock the potential of virtual assistants and accelerate your business growth.

This is the exact system Outsource School’s founders, Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, used to go from zero to 8 figures and 40+ virtual assistants with an exit in 2019.

Since being founded in 2020, Outsource School has helped 1,000+ business owners hire 2,000+ virtual assistants for their companies.

Schedule a free sales call to learn more

Free resources you might like: 

• Outsource School Case Study: How We Scaled to 45+ VAs and 8 Figures in Revenue
• Free VA Calculator | See How Many VAs You Can Afford
• Free Training on 5 Keys to Working With VAs
• Learn Outsourcing 101 | Guides, Downloads, and Checklists

Conclusion

Hiring a Sales Virtual Assistant can save you lots of time and money as a business owner.

I speak from personal experience and I’ve seen it help to scale my companies to 6, 7, and 8 figures.

Here’s what’s most important to remember:

1. Take it seriously
2. Outline the exact tasks you want them to handle before going to hire.
3. Make processes for each tasks so training is seamless.
4. Recruit and hire the best person for the role. Don’t compromise.
5. Take onboarding and training seriously.
6. Set up strong communication guidelines.
7. Give lots of feedback in the first month.
8. Don’t get discouraged if the first hire isn’t the right fit. Adjust and hire again.

Happy hiring!

If we can help in any way, just reach out to us at Support@OutsourceSchool.com.

 

Ready to hire a virtual assistant?

In this article, we’ll highlight 11 virtual assistant sites that you can use to find, hire, and pay virtual assistants for your business.

Virtual assistant sites make it the hiring process easier. They’ve already brought all of the VAs into one place. You just need to post a job, review candidate’s profiles, conduct the interview, and then make the best hire for your business.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What is a Virtual Assistant?
• Benefits of Using a Virtual Assistant
• Types of Tasks a Virtual Assistant Can Handle
• How to Choose the Right Virtual Assistant Site
• Top 11 Virtual Assistant Sites for Entrepreneurs in 2023

What is the best virtual assistant website?

As an entrepreneur, your time is your most valuable asset.

Unfortunately, it is often limited.

This is where virtual assistants can come in handy, allowing you to delegate tasks to qualified professionals, free up your time and focus on the important things.

But with so many virtual assistant sites on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.

Below, we’ll look at 11 of the best virtual assistant sites for entrepreneurs in 2023, so you can make an informed decision about which one to use.

What is a Virtual Assistant?

A virtual assistant (VA) is a person who provides administrative, technical, or other services remotely. VAs often work from home or a separate office space, providing businesses with a cost-effective alternative to hiring full-time staff.

Virtual assistants can be hired for a variety of tasks, from proofreading documents to conducting research and managing email accounts.

Virtual assistants can also be used to help with customer service, bookkeeping, and other administrative tasks. They can also provide support for marketing campaigns, such as creating content, managing social media accounts, and tracking analytics.

By outsourcing these tasks to a virtual assistant, businesses can save time and money, while still ensuring that their projects are completed in a timely and professional manner.

Benefits of Using a Virtual Assistant

Using a virtual assistant can be beneficial for entrepreneurs in many ways. For starters, it can save you time and money.

By outsourcing certain tasks to VAs, you don’t have to worry about hiring, training and managing full-time staff. This can be especially useful for small businesses that don’t have the resources to hire full-time employees.

Using a virtual assistant can also help you stay organized and productive. VAs are skilled professionals who are used to working remotely and handling multiple tasks at once.

They can help you keep track of all your tasks, prioritize them and ensure that they are completed in a timely manner.

In addition, virtual assistants can help you stay on top of the latest trends and technologies. They can help you stay up to date with the latest industry news and developments, as well as provide valuable insights into how you can improve your business operations.

This can be especially helpful for entrepreneurs who are looking to stay ahead of the competition.

Types of Tasks a Virtual Assistant Can Handle

Virtual assistants can handle a wide range of tasks, such as the ones listed below:

• arranging meetings
• providing customer service.
• web design
• SEO
• administrative tasks (data entry, bookkeeping, and research)
• marketing campaigns
• creating and managing email lists
• creating content for websites
• managing social media accounts.

Additionally, VAs can provide technical support, such as troubleshooting software issues and more.

How to Choose the Right Virtual Assistant Site

When choosing a virtual assistant site, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. Before you commit to any one site, make sure you read reviews, compare prices and check out the available services.

It’s also a good idea to look at the qualifications of the VAs on the site and see if they have the necessary experience for the job.

It’s also important to consider the customer service offered by the virtual assistant site. Make sure you can easily contact the site if you have any questions or concerns.

Additionally, look for a site that offers a money-back guarantee in case you’re not satisfied with the services provided.

Top 11 Virtual Assistant Sites for Entrepreneurs in 2023

Now that you know what to look for in a virtual assistant site, let’s take a look at some of the best sites for entrepreneurs in 2023:

1. Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest and most popular virtual assistant sites on the market. It offers a wide range of services, from web design and development to SEO and customer service.

It also has an easy-to-use interface that makes it easy to find qualified professionals for any job.

2. Fiverr

Fiverr is an online marketplace where entrepreneurs can find freelance professionals for short-term or one-off projects. It offers a wide range of services at competitive prices, including web design and development, social media management and customer service.

3. Zirtual

Zirtual is designed specifically for entrepreneurs and startups who need help managing their day-to-day tasks. Its VAs are highly experienced and have expertise in areas like customer service, project management and social media management.

Zirtual also offers an easy-to-use platform that makes it easy to find the perfect VA for any job.

4. Freelancer

Freelancer is another popular virtual assistant site that offers access to highly qualified professionals from around the world. It has a wide range of services on offer, including web design and development, SEO and customer service.

5. Fancy Hands

Fancy Hands focuses on providing high-quality customer service. Its VAs are experienced in handling customer inquiries and providing timely responses. They can also help with scheduling appointments, researching topics and managing email accounts.

6. TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is an online marketplace that connects entrepreneurs with skilled professionals who can help with tasks such as web design, data entry and social media management. It also offers an easy-to-use platform that makes it easy to find the right person for the job.

7. Time Etc

Time Etc specializes in providing administrative support services such as data entry, transcription and content creation. Its VAs are experienced and highly qualified, making it easy for entrepreneurs to outsource tasks and manage their workloads more efficiently.

8. Red Butler

Red Butler is an online concierge service that provides assistance with tasks such as scheduling appointments, researching topics and preparing presentations. Its VAs are highly skilled and experienced, allowing entrepreneurs to get more done with less effort.

9. MyTasker

MyTasker is a virtual assistant site that offers a wide range of services such as data entry, transcription and web design. It’s designed specifically for entrepreneurs who need help managing their workloads without having to hire full-time staff.

10. 24/7 Virtual Assistant

24/7 Virtual Assistant is a leading provider of virtual assistant services in India. Its team of experienced VAs can handle tasks such as customer service, data entry and content creation with ease.

11. PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is a popular virtual assistant site that offers access to highly qualified professionals from around the world. It has a wide range of services on offer, including web design and development, SEO and customer service.

What is Outsource School?

Outsource School is a hiring system that has helped 1,000+ students hire 2,000+ virtual assistants and freelancers.

Outsource School teaches you how to interview, onboard, train, and manage virtual assistants for your business.

You also gain access to Outsource School’s private community, Monthly Coaching Calls, and on-demand support from Outsource School’s founders.

Conclusion

By using one of these virtual assistant sites, entrepreneurs can get more done with less effort. Whether you’re looking for administrative support or content creation services, these sites can provide you with qualified professionals who can help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Want to know more on where to find a virtual assistant best fit for you? Check out this video:

Are you a Shopify business owner?

Do you feel overwhelmed by all of the work on your plate?

If yes, you need to hire a Shopify virtual assistant.

They can help get tasks off your plate so you can focus on growth for your business.

In this article, we’ll cover the following: 

• What is a Shopify Virtual Assistant?
• 17 Tasks a Shopify Virtual Assistant Can Help Your Ecommerce Business With
• Shopify Virtual Assistant Case Study
• Where Can You Hire a Shopify Virtual Assistant?
• How Much Does a Shopify Virtual Assistant Cost?
• What Is Outsource School?

What Is A Shopify Virtual Assistant?

So, let’s say you’re an eCommerce business owner and you’re selling products online using Shopify, a popular eCommerce platform. You might be handling everything on your own, which can be overwhelming at times, especially if you’re just starting out.

This is where a Shopify virtual assistant comes in. Essentially, a Shopify virtual assistant is a remote worker who specializes in helping eCommerce businesses like yours manage and grow their online stores on the Shopify platform.

They can handle a wide variety of tasks such as product listing, order processing, customer service, marketing, advertising, SEO optimization, website maintenance, content creation, and more.

By taking these tasks off your plate, they allow you to focus on the core aspects of your business, such as product development and customer relationships.

A Shopify virtual assistant can work on a part-time or full-time basis depending on your needs, and you can hire them from anywhere in the world. This allows you to tap into a global talent pool and find the perfect candidate for your business.

Overall, a Shopify virtual assistant can help streamline your eCommerce operations, improve customer satisfaction, and ultimately drive more sales and revenue for your business.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed with the day-to-day tasks of running your Shopify store, a virtual assistant might be just what you need to take your business to the next level!

17 Tasks a Shopify Virtual Assistant Can Help Your Ecommerce Business With

Here are 17 tasks you can hire a Shopify Virtual Assistant (VA) for:

1. Product listing and optimization: The virtual assistant can help add new products to the website, optimize product listings for better search visibility, and manage inventory.
2. Order processing: The virtual assistant can manage the order processing, update order status, track shipments, and handle customer queries related to orders.
3. Customer service: The virtual assistant can handle customer inquiries, complaints, and provide customer support through live chat, email, or phone.
4. Marketing and advertising: The virtual assistant can create and run marketing campaigns on social media, Google Ads, and other platforms, as well as help create content for the website and blog.
5. SEO optimization: The virtual assistant can optimize the website and product listings for search engines, conduct keyword research, and develop an effective SEO strategy.
6. Analytics and reporting: The virtual assistant can track and analyze website traffic, sales, and other metrics to identify areas of improvement and help make data-driven decisions.
7. Email marketing: The virtual assistant can create and send promotional emails, newsletters, and other types of email marketing campaigns.
8. Graphic design: The virtual assistant can design banners, graphics, and other visual elements for the website and social media channels.
9. Social media management: The virtual assistant can manage social media channels, create content, engage with followers, and run social media campaigns.
10. Website maintenance: The virtual assistant can ensure that the website is running smoothly, perform software updates, and troubleshoot technical issues.
11. Content creation: The virtual assistant can create blog posts, product descriptions, and other website content.
12. Product research: The virtual assistant can conduct market research to identify new product opportunities and trends.
13. Competitor analysis: The virtual assistant can research and analyze competitors to identify areas for improvement and stay ahead of the competition.
14. Influencer outreach: The virtual assistant can find and reach out to influencers to promote the website and products.
15. Affiliate marketing: The virtual assistant can manage the affiliate program and find new affiliates to promote the website.
16. Bookkeeping and accounting: The virtual assistant can manage bookkeeping tasks such as tracking expenses, preparing invoices, and managing finances.
17. Inventory management: The virtual assistant can manage inventory levels, reorder products, and update the website with new products.

Shopify Virtual Assistant Case Study

Meet Sarah, a small business owner who runs an online store selling handmade jewelry.

Sarah had been managing her Shopify store on her own for several months, but she was starting to feel overwhelmed with the workload.

She was spending most of her time on administrative tasks such as updating product listings, managing orders, and handling customer service inquiries.

She found herself with little time left to focus on product development and marketing, which was affecting her sales and revenue.

That’s when Sarah decided to hire a Shopify virtual assistant.

She found a virtual assistant who had experience with Shopify and was able to work part-time, helping her manage her eCommerce operations.

Before hiring the virtual assistant, Sarah was spending around 50-60 hours per week on her business, mostly on administrative tasks.

She was struggling to keep up with customer inquiries and order processing, which was resulting in negative reviews and customer complaints.

She was also finding it difficult to come up with new marketing ideas and ways to grow her business.

After hiring the Shopify virtual assistant, Sarah’s workload was significantly reduced.

The virtual assistant was able to take care of tasks such as product listing and optimization, order processing, customer service, marketing, and advertising.

This freed up Sarah’s time to focus on developing new products and marketing her business. She was able to launch new product lines and run marketing campaigns that drove more traffic to her website.

Additionally, the virtual assistant was able to optimize the website for search engines, resulting in better search visibility and more organic traffic. This helped Sarah generate more sales and revenue for her business.

The virtual assistant also helped with bookkeeping and accounting tasks, which made it easier for Sarah to manage her finances and make data-driven decisions.

Overall, hiring a Shopify virtual assistant was a game-changer for Sarah’s business. She was able to delegate administrative tasks and focus on growing her business. This helped her increase sales and revenue, improve customer satisfaction, and ultimately take her eCommerce business to the next level.

Where Can You Hire a Shopify Virtual Assistant?

Here are six websites that specialize in providing Shopify virtual assistants for eCommerce businesses:

1. FreeUp – FreeUp is a freelancer platform that offers pre-vetted eCommerce freelancers, including Shopify virtual assistants. Their virtual assistants can help with tasks such as product listing, order processing, customer service, marketing, and website design.
2. Upwork – Upwork is a popular freelancer platform that offers a wide range of freelancers, including Shopify virtual assistants. Their virtual assistants can help with tasks such as product listing, order processing, customer service, marketing, and SEO optimization.
3. Remote Staff – Remote Staff is an outsourcing platform that offers virtual assistants for eCommerce businesses. Their virtual assistants are trained in Shopify and can help with tasks such as product listing, order processing, customer service, and marketing.
4. Shopify Experts – Shopify Experts is a marketplace for Shopify experts, including virtual assistants. Their virtual assistants can help with tasks such as website design, development, and maintenance, as well as marketing and advertising.
5. Virtalent – Virtalent is a virtual assistant service that specializes in eCommerce businesses. They offer virtual assistants who are skilled in Shopify and can help with tasks such as product listing, order processing, customer service, marketing, and social media management.
6. OnlineJobs.ph – OnlineJobs.ph specializes in helping business owners find and hire virtual assistants in the Philippines. You can easily post a job, get applicants, interview, and hire them for your eCommerce business.

How Much Does a Shopify Virtual Assistant Cost?

The cost of hiring a Shopify virtual assistant can vary depending on several factors such as:

• the location of the virtual assistant
• their level of expertise
• the scope of work
• the hiring platform fees

In the United States, the average hourly rate for a Shopify virtual assistant can range from $25 to $75 per hour, with some more experienced assistants charging even higher rates.

However, hiring a virtual assistant from the US can be more expensive than hiring one from other countries due to the higher cost of living and the stronger currency.

In the Philippines, which is a popular country for hiring virtual assistants, the average hourly rate for a Shopify virtual assistant can range from $5 to $15 per hour. This lower rate is due to the lower cost of living in the Philippines, which means that virtual assistants can work for lower hourly rates but still earn a good income.

In other common countries for hiring virtual assistants, such as India, Eastern Europe, and South America, the average hourly rates for Shopify virtual assistants can range from $10 to $25 per hour.

It’s important to note that in addition to the hourly rate, hiring through a platform such as Upwork, Freelancer, or FreeUp can also involve fees.

These platforms usually charge a fee based on a percentage of the total project cost or hourly rate.

For example, Upwork charges a sliding fee of 5% to 20% based on the amount billed by the freelancer, while FreeUp charges a flat rate of $2.50 per hour for every hour billed by the virtual assistant.

When estimating the cost of hiring a Shopify virtual assistant, it’s important to factor in both the hourly rate and the platform fees.

It’s also important to consider the virtual assistant’s level of expertise and the scope of work required.

A more experienced virtual assistant may charge a higher rate, but they may also be able to complete the work more efficiently and with a higher level of quality.

What Is Outsource School?

Outsource School helps you to unlock the potential of virtual assistants and accelerate your business growth.

This is the exact system Outsource School’s founders, Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, used to go from zero to 8 figures and 40+ virtual assistants with an exit in 2019.

Since being founded in 2020, Outsource School has helped 1,000+ business owners hire 2,000+ virtual assistants for their companies.

Schedule a free sales call to learn more

Conclusion

To sum up, hiring a Shopify virtual assistant can be an excellent way to help manage and grow your eCommerce business.

Whether you need help with product listing, order processing, customer service, marketing, website design, or other tasks, a Shopify virtual assistant can provide valuable support and free up your time to focus on growing your business.

When it comes to hiring a Shopify virtual assistant, you can find a wide range of options online through platforms like FreeUp, Upwork, Remote Staff, Shopify Experts, and Virtalent.

The cost of hiring a Shopify virtual assistant can vary depending on factors like their location, level of expertise, and the scope of work required.

For instance, hiring a virtual assistant in the Philippines can be more affordable than hiring one in the US.

When estimating the cost of hiring a Shopify virtual assistant, it’s important to consider both the hourly rate and any platform fees that may apply.

So, whether you’re looking for help with a specific task or need ongoing support for your eCommerce business, consider hiring a Shopify virtual assistant to help take your business to the next level.