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Virtual Assistants

101 Virtual Assistant Tasks to Outsource in 2023

virtual assistant tasks

Ready for 101 virtual assistant tasks that you can start outsourcing for your business?

Hi! My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m an entrepreneur that’s been hiring and scaling companies with virtual assistants for the past 10 years.

I’ve hired 100s of virtual assistants for all areas of growing and operating a business.

Today, I run a portfolio of 3 companies (Outsource School, EcomBalance, and AccountsBalance) and the majority of our staff is virtual assistants and freelancers.

In this article, I hope to inspire you to see how many ways that a virtual assistant can help you and your business.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

  • 101 Virtual Assistant Tasks to Outsource
  • What Are the Best Virtual Assistant Sites To Use?
  • How Much Does a Virtual Assistant Cost?

Without further ado, let’s dive into the 101 VA tasks.

101 Virtual Assistant Tasks to Outsource

virtual assistant roles

After years of building companies and hiring remote teams, here’s a list of 101 virtual assistant tasks that you can outsource.

Whether you’re a solopreneur or running a team, there’s something on this list for everyone.

  1. Email management: A virtual assistant can manage your inbox, organize emails by priority, respond to routine emails and flag important ones for your attention.
  2. Social media management: A virtual assistant can help you create, schedule, and post content on your social media profiles, engage with your followers and track social media analytics.
  3. Content creation (writing, editing, proofreading): A virtual assistant can write, edit and proofread content for your blog, website, social media, or marketing campaigns.
  4. Graphic design: A virtual assistant can create graphics, logos, and other visual content for your brand or marketing campaigns.
  5. Video editing: A virtual assistant can edit and produce video content for your marketing campaigns, social media profiles, or YouTube channel.
  6. Podcast editing: A virtual assistant can edit and produce podcast episodes, publish them on your podcast hosting platform and promote them on social media.
  7. Web design: A virtual assistant can design and develop a website for your business or blog using platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace.
  8. Web development: A virtual assistant can manage and update your website, fix technical issues, and integrate new features or plugins.
  9. SEO optimization: A virtual assistant can optimize your website and content for search engines, conduct keyword research, and create backlinks.
  10. PPC advertising: A virtual assistant can manage your PPC campaigns, set up ads, create landing pages, and track ad performance.
  11. Market research: A virtual assistant can conduct market research to help you identify trends, analyze competitors, and make informed business decisions.
  12. Competitor analysis: A virtual assistant can analyze your competitors’ strategies, strengths, and weaknesses to help you refine your own marketing and sales tactics.
  13. Customer service: A virtual assistant can handle customer inquiries, complaints, and support tickets, provide basic technical support, and manage customer feedback.
  14. Order processing: A virtual assistant can process and fulfill customer orders, manage inventory, and update your e-commerce store.
  15. Data entry: A virtual assistant can perform data entry tasks such as inputting data into spreadsheets, databases, or CRMs.
  16. Data analysis: A virtual assistant can analyze and interpret data to help you make informed business decisions, conduct market research, or evaluate marketing campaigns.
  17. Bookkeeping: A virtual assistant can manage your finances, prepare invoices, process payments, and reconcile accounts.
  18. Invoicing: A virtual assistant can prepare and send invoices to clients or customers and manage accounts receivable.
  19. Appointment scheduling: A virtual assistant can manage your calendar, schedule appointments, and send reminders.
  20. Travel booking: A virtual assistant can make travel arrangements, book flights, hotels, and rental cars, and manage travel itineraries.
  21. Event planning: A virtual assistant can plan and coordinate events, book venues, hire vendors, and manage event logistics.
  22. Personal shopping: A virtual assistant can research and purchase products or services on your behalf, such as gifts, household items, or travel arrangements.
  23. Personal errands: A virtual assistant can complete personal tasks for you, such as running errands, booking appointments, or managing household tasks.
  24. Calendar management: A virtual assistant can manage your calendar, schedule appointments, and send reminders.
  25. Project management: A virtual assistant can manage and coordinate projects, delegate tasks, and monitor progress.
  26. Employee onboarding: A virtual assistant can manage the onboarding process for new employees, set up accounts and systems, and provide training.
  27. Employee training: A virtual assistant can provide ongoing training and support for employees to help them develop new skills and improve performance.
  28. Employee performance reviews: A virtual assistant can manage employee performance evaluations, set goals, and provide feedback.
  29. HR administration: A virtual assistant can manage HR tasks such as payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance with labor laws.
  30. IT support – A virtual assistant can troubleshoot technical issues, install software, and provide IT help.
  31. Helpdesk support – A virtual assistant can provide customer support, handle incoming calls and emails, and resolve issues.
  32. Database management – A virtual assistant can help organize and maintain a company’s databases, clean up data, and ensure data security.
  33. System administration – A virtual assistant can manage a company’s servers, network, and other IT infrastructure, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
  34. Network administration – A virtual assistant can monitor a company’s network, troubleshoot issues, and ensure network security.
  35. Software testing – A virtual assistant can test software applications, identify and report bugs, and provide feedback to developers.
  36. Quality assurance – A virtual assistant can ensure that products and services meet quality standards, conduct audits, and provide feedback.
  37. Virtual event production – A virtual assistant can help plan and produce virtual events, from webinars to conferences, and ensure a seamless experience for attendees.
  38. Virtual event hosting – A virtual assistant can host virtual events, provide technical support, and manage the event logistics.
  39. Sales support – A virtual assistant can support a company’s sales team, handle administrative tasks, and manage customer relationships.
  40. Lead generation – A virtual assistant can research potential clients, build lists of leads, and help nurture leads into customers.
  41. Sales reporting – A virtual assistant can gather and analyze data related to sales, generate reports, and provide insights to management.
  42. CRM management – A virtual assistant can manage a company’s customer relationship management (CRM) system, ensure data accuracy, and provide customer support.
  43. Email marketing – A virtual assistant can create and send email campaigns, manage email lists, and provide analytics.
  44. Affiliate program management – A virtual assistant can manage a company’s affiliate program, recruit affiliates, and provide support.
  45. Influencer outreach – A virtual assistant can research and reach out to influencers, manage influencer relationships, and measure results.
  46. PR outreach – A virtual assistant can research media outlets, pitch stories to journalists, and manage media relationships.
  47. Press release writing – A virtual assistant can write press releases and distribute them to relevant media outlets.
  48. Public speaking coaching – A virtual assistant can provide coaching and support to improve public speaking skills.
  49. Personal branding – A virtual assistant can help build and manage a personal brand, including social media profiles and online presence.
  50. Reputation management – A virtual assistant can monitor a company’s online reputation, respond to reviews, and manage online profiles.
  51. Online course creation – A virtual assistant can help create and produce online courses, from content creation to editing.
  52. Online course management – A virtual assistant can manage the logistics of online courses, including registration, payment processing, and support.
  53. Online course promotion – A virtual assistant can help promote online courses, using email marketing, social media, and other strategies.
  54. Online community management – A virtual assistant can manage online communities, including forums and social media groups.
  55. Online forum moderation – A virtual assistant can moderate online forums, ensuring that content is appropriate and engaging.
  56. Online customer support – A virtual assistant can provide customer support via email, chat, or social media, answering questions and resolving issues.
  57. Website maintenance: A virtual assistant can help you keep your website up-to-date by updating plugins, fixing broken links, and ensuring the website is running smoothly.
  58. Website security: A VA can implement security measures to protect your website from hackers and malware attacks.
  59. Website backups: A VA can regularly backup your website data to protect it from data loss due to technical failures or cyber attacks.
  60. Website migration: A VA can help you migrate your website to a new hosting provider or domain name.
  61. Database backups: A VA can help you backup your database regularly to protect your data from accidental deletion or corruption.
  62. Disaster recovery planning: A VA can help you create a disaster recovery plan to minimize data loss and downtime in the event of a natural disaster or cyber attack.
  63. Business continuity planning: A VA can help you create a business continuity plan to ensure that your business can continue operating in the event of an unexpected event.
  64. Virtual team building: A VA can help you plan virtual team building activities to improve team morale and collaboration.
  65. Corporate culture development: A VA can help you develop a corporate culture that aligns with your business goals and values.
  66. Employee engagement: A VA can help you engage with your employees by planning events and initiatives that improve employee satisfaction and productivity.
  67. Employee wellness programs: A VA can help you plan and implement employee wellness programs to promote a healthy work-life balance.
  68. Social responsibility initiatives: A VA can help you identify and plan social responsibility initiatives that align with your business values and goals.
  69. Fundraising campaigns: A VA can help you plan and execute fundraising campaigns to support a charitable cause or nonprofit organization.
  70. Grant writing: A VA can help you write grant proposals to secure funding for your business or organization.
  71. Legal research: A VA can conduct legal research on various topics such as intellectual property laws, contracts, and regulations.
  72. Legal drafting: A VA can draft legal documents such as contracts, agreements, and policies.
  73. Contract negotiation: A VA can help you negotiate contracts with vendors, partners, and clients.
  74. Contract drafting: A VA can draft contracts for your business or organization.
  75. Intellectual property management: A VA can help you manage your intellectual property such as trademarks, copyrights, and patents.
  76. Trademark registration: A VA can help you register trademarks for your business or products.
  77. Patent application preparation: A VA can help you prepare and file patent applications for your inventions.
  78. Patent research: A VA can conduct patent research to determine if your invention is eligible for a patent.
  79. Patent prosecution: A VA can help you navigate the patent prosecution process to secure a patent for your invention.
  80. Product design: A VA can help you design and create product prototypes.
  81. Product testing: A VA can conduct product testing to ensure quality and performance.
  82. User testing: A VA can conduct user testing to ensure your website or software is user-friendly.
  83. UX research: A VA can conduct user experience research to improve your website or software design.
  84. UX design: A VA can create user experience designs for your website or software.
  85. Web analytics: A VA can analyze your website traffic and user behavior to improve user experience and conversion rates.
  86. Social media analytics: A VA can analyze your social media performance and engagement to improve your social media marketing strategy.
  87. Financial reporting: A VA can help you prepare financial reports such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets.
  88. Financial analysis: A VA can conduct financial analysis to help you make informed business decisions.
  89. Investment research: A VA can conduct investment research to help you make informed investment decisions.
  90. Investment portfolio management: A VA can manage your investment portfolio and monitor
  91. Tax preparation: A virtual assistant can help gather the necessary documents and data to file tax returns accurately and on time.
  92. Tax planning: A virtual assistant can provide advice on tax strategies and help identify opportunities to reduce tax liabilities.
  93. Retirement planning: A virtual assistant can research and evaluate retirement plans, and assist in creating and monitoring a retirement savings strategy.
  94. Estate planning: A virtual assistant can help organize and maintain estate planning documents and assist in identifying and achieving estate planning goals.
  95. Insurance management: A virtual assistant can research and evaluate insurance options, help with policy management, and assist in filing claims.
  96. Wealth management: A virtual assistant can help monitor investments and provide investment research and analysis.
  97. Personal financial planning: A virtual assistant can assist in creating and managing a personal budget, tracking expenses, and identifying areas for financial improvement.
  98. Fitness coaching: A virtual assistant can help plan workouts, track progress, and provide accountability and motivation to achieve fitness goals.
  99. Nutrition coaching: A virtual assistant can help with meal planning, grocery shopping, and tracking food intake to achieve nutritional goals.
  100. Meditation coaching: A virtual assistant can help create a meditation practice, provide guided meditations, and assist in maintaining a meditation routine.
  101. Life coaching: A virtual assistant can help set goals, identify obstacles, and create actionable plans to achieve personal and professional growth.

We’ve also linked some of these tasks out to more in depth articles that we’ve created on the Outsource School Blog.

If you want more information about hiring any of the following virtual assistants, just reach out to us at Support@OutsourceSchool.com.

What Are the Best Virtual Assistant Sites To Use?

virtual assistant working

When you’re ready to post a virtual assistant job online, head over to these 7 freelance websites.

I have personal experience with all of them and you’ll be able to find who you’re looking for:

  1. Upwork: Upwork is one of the most popular virtual assistant sites out there, and for good reason. It has a large pool of freelancers who are available to work on a variety of different projects.
  2. Fiverr: Fiverr is another popular site for hiring virtual assistants. It’s known for its affordable pricing and the wide range of services that are available.
  3. Freelancer: Freelancer is a site that is similar to Upwork. It has a large pool of freelancers who are available to work on a variety of different projects.
  4. TaskBullet: TaskBullet is a virtual assistant site that specializes in providing affordable virtual assistant services. It’s a great option for small business owners who are on a budget.
  5. Onlinejobs.ph: Onlinejobs.ph is a virtual assistant site that specializes in providing Filipino virtual assistants. This is a great option if you’re looking for high-quality virtual assistants at an affordable price.
  6. PeoplePerHour: PeoplePerHour is a site that is similar to Fiverr. It’s known for its affordable pricing and the wide range of services that are available.
  7. FreeUp: FreeUp pre-vets thousands of virtual assistants and freelancers and only allows the top 1% into the network. You can post a job and get introduced to pre-vetted applicants within hours.

How Much Does a Virtual Assistant Cost?

virtual assistant cost

The cost of hiring a virtual assistant can vary depending on a variety of factors. One of the biggest factors that can impact the cost is the location of the virtual assistant.

For example, virtual assistants based in the United States or Europe will typically cost more than virtual assistants based in other parts of the world like the Philippines or India.

Here’s a breakdown of how much you can expect to pay for virtual assistants based on their location:

  1. United States and Europe: If you’re hiring a virtual assistant based in the United States or Europe, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $75 per hour. Keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate and the actual cost can vary depending on the skill level and experience of the virtual assistant.
  2. Philippines: If you’re hiring a virtual assistant based in the Philippines, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $15 per hour. This is significantly less than what you would pay for a virtual assistant based in the United States or Europe.
  3. India: If you’re hiring a virtual assistant based in India, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $15 per hour. Again, this is significantly less than what you would pay for a virtual assistant based in the United States or Europe.

It’s important to note that the cost of a virtual assistant can also be impacted by factors like their experience, skill level, and the tasks you need them to perform.

For example, if you need a virtual assistant with specialized skills like graphic design or programming, you can expect to pay more than you would for a general virtual assistant.

Additionally, some virtual assistant sites may charge a commission or fee on top of the hourly rate. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of any virtual assistant site you’re considering to understand their fee structure.

What Is Outsource School?

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: 

Conclusion

If you’ve made it this far, we hope that you have a good idea of what virtual assistant tasks you may want to start outsourcing.

Hiring a virtual assistant is right for you if:

  • You want more time back in your day
  • You want a more affordable solution than full time employees
  • You have a lot of busy work to pass off
  • You have processes built for your tasks
  • You are scaling fast and need lots of help

If you have any questions or we can help in any way on your hiring journey, email us at Support@OutsourceSchool.com.

Happy Hiring!

Categories
Virtual Assistants

19 Tasks an Amazon FBA Virtual Assistant Can Take Over

amazon fba virtual assistant

Looking to hire an Amazon FBA virtual assistant? 

Save time and money by hiring a virtual assistant for your Amazon FBA business.

My name is Connor Gillivan. I sold on Amazon from 2009 to 2016 and virtual assistants were a huge part of our growth to $25 million in total sales.

In this article, we’ll hit on everything you need to know about getting started with Amazon VAs.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

  • What Is an Amazon FBA Virtual Assistant?
  • 19 Tasks an Amazon FBA Virtual Assistant Can Take Over For You
  • Where Can You Find Amazon FBA VAs?
  • How Much Will an FBA Virtual Assistant Cost?
  • Case Study: How an FBA VA Helped Jeff Scale to 7 Figures in Revenue
  • Frequently Asked Questions

What Is an Amazon FBA Virtual Assistant?

An Amazon FBA virtual assistant is a remote worker who specializes in assisting Amazon sellers with various tasks related to managing their Amazon FBA business.

FBA stands for “Fulfillment By Amazon,” which is a program where Amazon stores, picks, packs, and ships products on behalf of sellers.

An Amazon FBA virtual assistant can help sellers manage their Amazon business more efficiently and effectively by taking on various tasks such as product research, listing optimization, customer service, and inventory management.

They are familiar with the nuances of Amazon’s platform and can help sellers navigate the complex world of Amazon FBA.

19 Tasks an Amazon FBA Virtual Assistant Can Take Over For You

amazon fba virtual assistant tasks

Here are 19 tasks that an Amazon FBA virtual assistant can take over for you:

  1. Product research: Conduct research to identify profitable products to sell on Amazon.
  2. Listing creation: Create and optimize product listings for maximum visibility and sales.
  3. Keyword research: Research and identify the best keywords to use in product listings and PPC campaigns.
  4. Competitor research: Analyze competitors’ listings and strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
  5. Inventory management: Monitor inventory levels, forecast demand, and reorder products when necessary.
  6. Order management: Monitor and process orders, manage returns and refunds.
  7. PPC management: Create and manage Amazon PPC campaigns to drive traffic and sales.
  8. Review management: Monitor and respond to customer reviews, handle negative reviews appropriately.
  9. Customer service: Respond to customer inquiries, handle customer complaints, and provide exceptional customer service.
  10. Sales analysis: Analyze sales data and identify trends to make data-driven business decisions.
  11. Market analysis: Monitor market trends and adjust business strategy accordingly.
  12. Email marketing: Create and execute email marketing campaigns to drive sales and customer engagement.
  13. Social media management: Manage social media accounts to increase brand awareness and customer engagement.
  14. Influencer outreach: Identify and contact influencers to promote your products.
  15. Product launch management: Plan and execute successful product launches.
  16. Bookkeeping: Manage financial records, process invoices, and reconcile accounts.
  17. Vendor management: Manage relationships with suppliers and vendors.
  18. Translation: Translate product listings and other marketing materials for international markets.
  19. Reporting: Create regular reports on sales, inventory, and other important metrics to keep you informed about your business’s performance.

By hiring an Amazon FBA virtual assistant to handle these tasks, you can focus on growing your business and taking it to the next level.

Where Can You Find Amazon FBA VAs?

Here are some of the top websites where you can find and hire Amazon FBA virtual assistants:

  1. Upwork – Upwork is one of the largest freelance marketplaces online, where you can find thousands of virtual assistants with experience in Amazon FBA.
  2. Onlinejobs.ph – Onlinejobs.ph is a popular job board for Filipino virtual assistants. Many Filipinos are experienced in Amazon FBA and can be hired at a lower cost than many other countries.
  3. FreeeUp – FreeeUp is a curated marketplace of pre-vetted freelancers. They have a special focus on eCommerce businesses and offer Amazon-specific services, including Amazon FBA virtual assistants.
  4. Fiverr – Fiverr is another popular freelance marketplace where you can find virtual assistants with experience in Amazon FBA. You can browse through their profiles and reviews to find the right fit for your business.
  5. Indeed – Indeed is a job board that allows you to post job listings and search for resumes. You can use this platform to find Amazon FBA virtual assistants with specific skills and experience.

How Much Will an FBA Virtual Assistant Cost?

virtual assistant cost

The cost of hiring an FBA virtual assistant can vary depending on a few factors, such as their location, level of experience, and the tasks you want them to handle. Generally speaking, virtual assistants from countries with a lower cost of living, such as the Philippines, will have lower hourly rates than those from countries like the US or the UK.

In the US, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 per hour for an FBA virtual assistant, with some experienced VAs charging even more.

In the Philippines, hourly rates for FBA virtual assistants typically range from $5 to $10 per hour, depending on their level of experience and the tasks they are handling. However, keep in mind that rates can vary widely, and some highly experienced VAs may charge more.

It’s important to note that while hiring a virtual assistant from a country with a lower cost of living may seem like a good way to save money, it’s important to consider other factors as well. For example, language barriers, cultural differences, and time zone differences can all impact communication and productivity. Additionally, it’s important to consider the quality of work and the level of experience you need for the tasks at hand.

When hiring an FBA virtual assistant, it’s important to carefully consider your budget, the specific tasks you need help with, and the level of experience you require. With these factors in mind, you can determine a reasonable hourly rate for your virtual assistant and make an informed hiring decision that meets your needs and budget.

Case Study: How an FBA VA Helped Jeff Scale to 7 Figures in Revenue

amazon fba va case study

Meet Jeff, an eCommerce entrepreneur who was struggling to keep up with the demands of his Amazon FBA business. Jeff was spending long hours every day handling customer service, managing inventory, and processing orders, leaving him with little time to focus on growing his business. Despite his hard work, Jeff was struggling to achieve the revenue growth he wanted.

One day, Jeff realized he needed help if he was going to take his business to the next level. He began researching virtual assistants and realized that an FBA VA could be the solution he was looking for. After some research, Jeff decided to hire a virtual assistant from the Philippines through Onlinejobs.ph.

The Hiring Process: 

The hiring process was straightforward. Jeff created a job listing outlining the tasks he needed his FBA virtual assistant to handle, such as product research, keyword research, and inventory management. He also included his budget and the number of hours he needed the virtual assistant to work each week.

Within a few days, Jeff began receiving applications from qualified candidates. He reviewed each application carefully, looking for experience in Amazon FBA and the specific tasks he needed help with. After conducting a few interviews, Jeff found the perfect virtual assistant for his business.

Getting the VA Started:

Once the FBA virtual assistant began working with Jeff, he immediately felt the difference. He was able to focus on growing his business, while his virtual assistant handled the day-to-day tasks of managing his Amazon store. The virtual assistant was able to quickly learn Jeff’s business and make suggestions for improvement, helping Jeff to streamline his operations and improve his bottom line.

The Outcome:

With the help of his FBA virtual assistant, Jeff was able to scale his business to 7 figures in revenue within a year. He was able to launch new products more quickly, optimize his listings, and better manage his inventory. He was also able to provide better customer service, resulting in more positive reviews and increased sales.

Overall, Jeff’s decision to hire an FBA virtual assistant was a game-changer for his business. By outsourcing routine tasks and focusing on growth, he was able to achieve the revenue growth he had been striving for. If you’re struggling to keep up with the demands of your Amazon FBA business, consider hiring an FBA virtual assistant to help you streamline your operations and achieve your business goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What skills do you need to be an Amazon seller virtual assistant? 

To be an Amazon seller virtual assistant, you should have knowledge and skills in Amazon FBA, product research, keyword research, inventory management, customer service, and data analysis. Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently are also important for success in this role. Depending on the specific tasks the Amazon seller needs help with, additional skills such as social media management or graphic design may be required.

2. How much does an Amazon virtual assistant cost? 

The cost of an Amazon virtual assistant can vary depending on their experience, location, and the specific tasks they will be handling. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3 to $20 per hour for an Amazon virtual assistant, with rates typically being lower for VAs located in countries like the Philippines. It’s important to balance cost with quality to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

3. Can you hire a virtual assistant part time? 

Yes, you can hire a virtual assistant part-time. In fact, many virtual assistants offer their services on a part-time basis, allowing you to hire them for the specific number of hours you need each week or month. This can be a cost-effective solution for businesses that don’t require full-time support or that have fluctuating workloads. Hiring a part-time virtual assistant can also allow you to test the waters and see if outsourcing is a good fit for your business before committing to a full-time hire.

What Is Outsource School?

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: 

Conclusion

An Amazon FBA virtual assistant can help you:

  • Save time
  • Pass mundane tasks off your plate
  • Let you focus on growth more
  • Systemize your business
  • Grow faster
  • Build a business that doesn’t depend solely on you

If you want that, we’d love to help through Outsource School and we welcome any and all questions to Support@OutsourceSchool.com.

Happy hiring!

Categories
Partner Spotlight

Partner Spotlight: Deliver SaaS Products to Your Customers with Andrew from Chat HQ

Hey, thanks for tuning in to another Partner Spotlight interview at OutsourceSchool.

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m the CMO and an Owner of Outsource School.

We’re on a mission to help 10,000+ business owners master hiring virtual assistants and freelancers, and industry partnerships is a big way that we’re able to make it happen.

We’re all about creating win-win partnerships where we are able to grow with other companies in the eCommerce, agency, SAAS, and online space.

In this exclusive interview, we interview Andrew Kamide from Chat HQ. Andrew provides high-quality, industry exclusive, lead generation using Google Adwords and Facebook ad campaigns.

With nearly 10 years of marketing experience, he is able to maximize his client’s lead generation opportunities using highly targeted audiences across various marketing channels.

To put it simply… Andrew helps businesses grow with proven marketing strategies!

Connor: Hey Andrew, thanks for taking the time to chat with us today. As a company, one of our goals is to highlight our partners so that our clients can benefit where it makes most sense. To get started, can you give us a high-level introduction to Chat HQ and a little bit about how the company got started? 

Andrew: ChatHQ helps digital marketing agencies deliver SaaS products to their customers. By incorporating ChatHQ products into their product offerings, we are helping these digital marketing agencies transition either into a full SaaS company, or a hybrid SaaS company that offers both software and marketing services to their clients (SwaS).

ChatHQ was founded back in Feb 2021 when both myself and my co-founder and CTO Sergio Leon almost became competitors. We both had ideas for a particular software add-on to a popular platform called HighLevel, and instead of competing, we decided to partner up and leverage each other’s strengths to grow together.

Connor: Thanks for sharing that! Can you dive a bit more into the products and services that you offer to help increase profit margins and customer retention rates? Our audience is always looking for reputable companies that they can lean on for specific parts of their online businesses.   

Andrew: ChatHQ’s flagship product is called the Engagement Widget™ that was designed to be used in both sales and support capacities. This widget looks like a website chat widget, but operates as a “shell” to many other tools and gadgets that function independently and differently of one another.

The sole purpose of having multiple tools and gadgets is to provide the exact combination of options for website visitors or customers to interact with in order to achieve a specific outcome or conversion event.

We also currently offer:

  • Livechat software
  • Workflow Automation software
  • and soon will have other software solutions like knowledge base building software, onboarding help guide software, and Ai bot functionality

Our product suite at ChatHQ was designed to help our customer’s business internally but also designed to be white-labeled by our customers and resold to THEIR customers. So when we reference “increasing profit margins and retention rates” we are referring to the ability of the digital marketing agency to provide their customers with sticky software solutions that solve THEIR problems.

Increasing Profit Margins – Generally, digital marketing agencies have low-profit margins, while software companies tend to have large profit margins. This is statistically documented. This tends to come from long sales cycles and a heavy reliance on human labor to fulfil traditional marketing services sold by the agencies to their customers.

By incorporating ChatHQ software into their offerings, they have the ability to cut down the length of the sales cycle by offering a lower ticket product/service up front. With a lower ticket product/service, the digital marketing agency will get less objections, resulting in more sales at a higher profit margin.

Once the software starts providing results, their customers will gain more trust for the digital marketing agency, and they will then have the opportunity to sell higher ticket services moving forward.

Increasing Retention Rates – SaaS holds one of the highest customer retention rates ranging from 92%-97%, while most digital marketing agencies’ retention rate is anywhere from 75%-80%. So if digital marketing agencies incorporate Saas into their offerings, and provide results for their customers with that software, then they will ultimately increase their retention rates by becoming a hybrid SaaS company.

Connor: Jumping off of that…when you’re thinking about your ideal customer, who is that? What are they selling? Where are they located in the world? How much sales do they typically have in a year? If there’s any other qualities, please include them as well. We’re all about making introductions where it benefits both parties. 

Andrew: ChatHQ’s ideal customer profile is as follows:

  • Digital marketing agencies selling traditional marketing services
    • Short term: Digital marketing agencies using HighLevel
    • Long term: Any digital marketing agency
  • 3 to 200 customers
  • $100k + in gross revenue
  • Global

The perfect customer would be a digital marketing agency that already uses HighLevel and is determined to add additional revenue streams to their agency through SaaS, or looking to make the switch from a digital marketing agency to a SaaS company entirely.

Connor: For our audience to truly understand what makes you stand out from other companies in the SaaS space, can you share a story of how ChatHQ truly helped one of its customers?

Andrew: We have not gathered any case studies from our customers yet. We can only speak on behalf of our perspective of their success using ChatHQ.

Connor: As you and your company think about the next year ahead, what does it look like? Are there any specific initiatives that you’re working on as a team to better your product or service for your customers?

Andrew: The year ahead has many challenges for ChatHQ, but ones we are very excited to take on. We will be incorporating Ai into our product in both livechat and the knowledge base software, and we will be making our product much more flexible so customers can customize more and more to best suit their needs and their customer’s needs!

We will also be adding more software solutions to our product suite like onboarding software!

Connor: How about this…everyone loves a company’s growth story. We all naturally go through ups and downs as a company. What was one of the biggest challenges that the company faced in its growing stages? 

Andrew: The biggest challenge we faced, and continue to face, is being bootstrapped. We have launched a few different products to try and boost revenue so that we can properly engineer the software solutions we are imagining and ideating, and that process of building many products creates a fragmented organization with many points of failure.

We are in the process of consolidating our product suite and combining products to make it easier to understand, purchase, and consume as a customer. This will also help our team stay focused and organized as we grow which is a top priority of ours.

Connor: Thanks! Let’s talk some outsourcing! What’s been your experience with outsourcing for your business? What platforms do you use most? And how has it impacted your business over the years?

Andrew: We do not outsource as of today. There are a few projects that we will need outsourcing for, such as creating product videos, SEO, and some others, but we are managing all projects in-house as of today.

Connor: On a similar train, what do you look for when you’re hiring someone online? Are there any specific countries that you prefer to hire from? What traits are most important to you in a remote hire? 

Andrew: We do not have a specific country in mind when hiring. We have the need to hire on both sides of the world as we are a global company and could use the active workforce during all hours of the day. Our team today has US, Latin American, Filipino, and Indian workers.

The most important aspect to a remote worker is punctuality and self-motivation. If they have attention to detail and they are able to manage their time and energy, they will succeed in almost any project/department they are needed in.

Connor: Finally, outsourcing can have a bad rap, what would you say to someone who is thinking about outsourcing for the first time? What advice do you have for them?

Andrew: Pick your outsourcing partner wisely. If you invest too much and don’t get the return you hoped for, you will have not only wasted money but also wasted time the could have been spent with the RIGHT partner.

Connor: As we close this out, I just have one more question. Where is the best place to find and follow you and the company online? Also, if you have one, is there any special offer that you’ll be offering to the community today? 

Andrew: Website, Facebook,IG,  YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter

Special offer – Anyone that signs up through this partnership will receive a 10% discount for life on any/all ChatHQ products!

Categories
Partner Spotlight

Partner Spotlight: Simplify Your Marketing and Sales with Hailey Rowe

Hey, thanks for tuning in to another Partner Spotlight interview at OutsourceSchool.

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m the CMO and an Owner of Outsource School.

We’re on a mission to help 10,000+ business owners master hiring virtual assistants and freelancers, and industry partnerships is a big way that we’re able to make it happen.

We’re all about creating win-win partnerships where we are able to grow with other companies in the eCommerce, agency, SAAS, and online space.

In this exclusive interview, we interview Hailey Rowe, Business Coach. 

Connor: Hey Hailey, thanks for taking the time to chat with us here. We love getting to know our partners better so that our community can benefit from what our partners are offering and doing in the industry. To get started, can you give us a high-level overview of what you do and how you got started? 

Hailey: I’m a Marketing & Sales Coach and LinkedIn Lead Generation Service Provider. I help coaches and service providers attract more clients, visibility opportunities, & profitable partnerships without letting social media overwhelm or lack of time stop them. 

I got my first life coaching & behavioral change coaching certification when I was 16-years-old & got my Bachelor’s Degree in Entrepreneurship at Loyola Marymount University. After college, I worked in Business Development & Marketing for several fast-paced personal development startups. Then, in 2017… one of the startups I worked for had to let everyone go due to project delays & that was my “sign” it was time to go ALL IN on my own business. I began coaching online coaches and entrepreneurs, started a podcast & Facebook Group called Health Coach Nation (Business & Marketing Support for online coaches), and have been loving it ever since.

I’ve been named as one of the Top 25 Coaches in Chicago & top 6 Business Podcasts for health coaches. 

Connor: Love that! Can you dive a bit more into the products and services that you offer in the business coaching space? I’m sure our audience would love to know exactly what problems you could solve for them. 

Hailey: I offer custom private coaching options, but my main program is my 6-Month Coach Inner Circle

It’s a hands-on small group coaching & private coaching hybrid program that helps health, life, and mindset coaches get focused on booking clients, marketing their standout program, & turning their coaching “hobby” into a sustainable business. 

I also offer LinkedIn Lead Generation Services for service providers and coaches who want to book more discovery calls with potential clients, get more speaking & collaboration opportunities, & form profitable partnerships. My team and I grow your connections every week on LinkedIn with your target audience & help you build relationships with your niche. 

If you’d like to learn more about the various ways I work with clients, here are a couple resources:

Connor: Jumping off of that…if there was one problem you’d say that Hailey Rowe solves best for your clients, what would it be? Why? 

Hailey: I help my clients simplify marketing and sales with my “4 Basics of Client Attraction” approach. So often, clients come to me frustrated about “the algorithm,” where to put their focus, and feeling like they have so many ideas but are struggling to implement what matters most for growing their business. I help them prioritize the client-generating activities & principles… as opposed to overthinking or “majoring in the minors.” 

Connor: As the company continues to grow over the next year, what are your plans for expansion? Any new products or offerings or enhancements to your current products? 

Hailey: I am doing more and more corporate & motivational speaking gigs and also am launching a test group for a monthly membership. The membership will be providing tools, strategies, & personal development support for business owners looking to increase sales, stop self-doubt from holding them back, and create a business & calendar they love.

Connor: And how specifically would you say that Hailey Rowe and your team is different from other similar businesses in the coaching industry?

Hailey: I help you attract clients “The F.A.S.T. Way.” Rather than obsessing about posting on social media or needing fancy tech or ads to succeed, we get you focused on timeless principles of marketing and sales

My F.A.S.T. Framework stands for…

  • Followers: We determine who you want to attract as clients & customize a marketing system that’s aligned with your strengths to bring in new leads every week, give value, & convert to clients.
  • Action: We develop content, messaging, branding, & calls to action that DRIVE your dream clients to TAKE ACTION! 
  • Sales: We get you selling your STANDOUT, NO BRAINER services WITHOUT being PUSHY & attracting more qualified people who want to PAY for your services 
  • Time Management: We shift you from “busy work” to smart work in a way that allows you to grow your business while still having time for your family & personal life
  • Transformation: We help you become the confident, resourceful entrepreneur you’ve always wanted to be & ensure that your program is transformational & differentiated. 

Here are a couple other ways I am different from most business coaches…

  • I’ve worked in business development & marketing for several wellness and personal development based startups, so I know these industries very well.
  • I have been a singer and performer since I was 5-years-old, so I can help my clients gain confidence by putting themselves out there, overcoming nerves, being on video, & being polished.
  • I am very hands-on. I review client assets every week… Many coaches don’t take the time to actually give client feedback on websites, their sales calls, webinars, Instagram posts, etc. 

Connor: What’s your outsourcing story? We find that everyone has a different experience when outsourcing and hiring online. What is your first memory that comes to mind?

Hailey: I started out with 1 virtual assistant I found in a Facebook Group and she is still on my team today! 😊 It took me a while to learn that people can’t read your mind & how to delegate well, but I’ve come a long way in being a better delegator. 😂 

Connor: Love it! Talking more about outsourcing, what advice would you give to yourself if you were just about to start outsourcing and hiring online? 

Hailey: Know how to do the task first yourself so that you can document and explain it to your team members clearly. Film yourself or your screen doing the task, write it out, and go through a “test project” with your team member as a starting point. 

Connor: How about this one…how do you communicate with the people you hire online? What’s your best practices there and how has it changed over time? 

Hailey: I communicate with them via voice note, check-in meetings, standard operating procedures, & weekly checklists. Best practices include having a weekly report about what they’ve done this week, leading with the POSITIVES about what they are doing right FIRST before giving feedback about improvements, and making sure you clearly communicate ALL the steps (making the standard operating procedure so simple & broken down that anyone could do it).

Connor: Finally, this is one that I think our community will love, who’s been your best online hire? What do they do for you? Why are they your best hire? Tell us all about them and that story!

Hailey: I have several WONDERFUL team members who I love, but I’ll share that one of my favorites is Irene. She helps me with organic marketing and Facebook Group Management. The reason why I love her is because she’s reliable, goes above and beyond what I ask her to do, and is consistent. 

Connor: As we close this out, I just have one more question. Where is the best place to find and follow you and the company online? Also, if you have one, is there any special offer that you’ll be offering to the community today? 

Hailey: I’d love to share my Free Weekly Planning System to help you LOVE your calendar, get 2x more done, & prevent overwhelm. 😊

You can also find me using the following links:

Categories
Virtual Assistants

13 Tasks an Accounting Virtual Assistant Can Help With

accounting virtual assistant

Looking to hire an Accounting Virtual Assistant? 

You came to the right place!

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m an entrepreneur and I currently run a portfolio of three companies (Outsource School, EcomBalance, and AccountsBalance).

In 2019, I exited one of my companies, FreeUp, and all of our bookkeeping and accounting was handled by our team of accounting virtual assistants.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about accounting VAs. 

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

  • What Is An Accounting Virtual Assistant?
  • What Tasks Can An Accounting VA Handle?
  • What Skills Do Accounting Virtual Assistants Have?
  • Where Can You Hire VAs for Bookkeeping and Accounting?
  • Case Study: How An Accounting VA Made Sarah’s Business Double Sales

Let’s get into it!

What Is An Accounting Virtual Assistant?

An Accounting Virtual Assistant is a professional who remotely provides accounting and bookkeeping services to businesses.

They are experienced in managing financial transactions, reconciling accounts, preparing financial statements, and performing other accounting tasks.

They use various accounting software, like Quickbooks Online and Xero, and tools to ensure that your business finances are in order and your books are accurate.

Hiring an Accounting VA can be a cost-effective solution for small business owners who need help with their financial tasks, but do not have the budget to hire a full-time accountant.

If you’re looking for someone to handle your basic bookkeeping and financials for a low rate ($250 to $500 per month), an accounting virtual assistant may be a good fit.

If your business is larger than $500,000 in yearly revenue, we recommend you look to a bookkeeping and accounting service like EcomBalance or AccountsBalance.

Here’s a video to explain accounting and bookkeeping VAs even more:

What Tasks Can An Accounting VA Handle?

accounting va tasks

Here’s 10 common tasks that an accounting virtual assistant could take off your plate:

  1. Managing accounts payable and accounts receivable
  2. Reconciling bank statements and credit card statements
  3. Preparing and submitting invoices
  4. Managing payroll and processing employee payments
  5. Preparing financial statements and reports
  6. Managing and filing taxes and compliance documents
  7. Tracking expenses and preparing expense reports
  8. Managing cash flow and forecasting
  9. Auditing financial records
  10. Maintaining accurate financial records and data entry.

These are the 10 most common tasks, but you may have more unique accounting and finance-related tasks that you want an accounting VA to handle.

As long as it’s within the realm of accounting and bookkeeping, an experienced accounting VA should be able to handle it for you.

Just keep in mind that the rate you pay will determine how experienced the accounting VA is.

The more you are willing to pay, the better experience and knowledge you’ll get. Similarly for the less you’re willing to pay.

What Skills Do Accounting Virtual Assistants Have?

Accounting virtual assistants should have a range of skills and experience in order to effectively manage your business finances.

Here are some key skills to look for:

  1. Accounting and bookkeeping experience, specific to your industry
  2. Knowledge of accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks.
  3. Understanding of tax laws and compliance regulations
  4. Attention to detail and accuracy in financial reporting
  5. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  6. Time management and organization skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
  7. Analytical skills to interpret financial data and identify trends
  8. Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot financial issues
  9. Experience in accounts payable and accounts receivable
  10. Ability to work independently and remotely.

Other important things to look for when interviewing: 

  • That they can work on your time zone (if that’s important)
  • That their pay rate aligns with your budget
  • That they have relevant experience in your industry
  • That they aren’t working for multiple clients at once
  • That they have good reviews online

Bottom line: You want your accounting VA to know much more about bookkeeping and accounting than you do.

Hire someone that is passionate about accounting and bookkeeping and that you’ll be able to trust with your books and finances.

Where Can You Hire VAs for Bookkeeping and Accounting?

accounting va

Having hired from lots of sites online before, here are 6 that we vouch for: 

  1. Upwork – This is a freelance marketplace where you can find Accounting VAs from all over the world.
  2. Onlinejobs.ph – This is a job board specifically for virtual assistants based in the Philippines, which is known for its large pool of highly skilled and affordable VAs.
  3. Fiverr – This is a freelance platform where you can hire VAs for various services, including bookkeeping and accounting.
  4. FreeUp – This is a platform that specializes in connecting businesses with top-notch freelancers, including Accounting VAs.
  5. Virtual Latinos – This is a platform that connects businesses with bilingual virtual assistants based in Latin America, including accounting and bookkeeping VAs.
  6. Hubstaff Talent – This is a free job board where you can find VAs from around the world, including those with accounting and bookkeeping experience.

Tip: Make sure to carefully review their qualifications, work history, and reviews from previous clients to ensure they have the skills and experience necessary for your business needs.

Case Study: How An Accounting VA Made Sarah’s Business Double Sales

Meet Sarah, a small business owner who runs a successful e-commerce store.

Despite her success, Sarah was struggling to manage her business finances on her own.

She was spending hours each week reconciling her accounts, preparing invoices, and managing her cash flow.

She knew she needed help, but didn’t have the budget to hire a full-time accountant.

Hiring An Accounting VA

Sarah decided to hire an Accounting Virtual Assistant from an online platform.

The VA had years of experience in bookkeeping and accounting and was familiar with the accounting software Sarah was using.

After an initial consultation, the VA created a customized plan to manage Sarah’s financial tasks.

The VA took over all of Sarah’s accounting tasks, including managing accounts payable and receivable, reconciling bank statements and credit card statements, and preparing invoices.

She also started providing financial reports on a weekly basis, which gave Sarah a better understanding of her cash flow and helped her make informed business decisions.

The Results

As a result of hiring the Accounting VA, Sarah was able to focus on growing her business and doubling her sales.

With more time to focus on her marketing and customer service efforts, Sarah’s business started to thrive.

In addition, the VA helped Sarah identify areas where she could save money, such as renegotiating contracts with suppliers and reducing unnecessary expenses.

This helped Sarah increase her profit margins and reinvest in her business.

Overall, hiring an Accounting VA was a game-changer for Sarah’s business.

It allowed her to focus on growing her business and provided her with the financial support she needed to make informed decisions.

What Is Outsource School?

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: 

Conclusion

If you’re smart, you’ll outsource your bookkeeping and accounting to a virtual assistant or an online bookkeeping service.

If your budget is low and you really need help getting accounting and bookkeeping off your plate, an accounting virtual assistant can be the best decision as you continue to grow.

If you’re overworked, stressed, and sick of handling your own finances, take the leap and hire an accounting VA.

If you need help hiring an accounting or bookkeeping VA, we can help you through Outsource School.

We have a course within Outsource School specifically tailored to hiring and implementing an accounting and bookkeeping virtual assistant.

If you’re interested, reach out to us at Support@OutsourceSchool.com or set up a call with us through the link on this page.

Categories
Virtual Assistants

30 Ways a Marketing Virtual Assistant Can Grow Your Business

marketing virtual assistant

Are you wondering how a marketing virtual assistant can help grow your online business? 

If “Yes!”, you’ve found the right article.

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’ve been hiring and scaling companies with Marketing VAs for the past 10 years.

I’ve scaled multiple companies to 6, 7, and 8 figures in yearly revenue with VAs with an exit in 2019.

Today, I run 3 companies with the help of Marketing VAs.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiring a virtual assistant for your marketing efforts. 

  • What Is a Virtual Marketing Assistant?
  • What Does a Marketing VA Do?
  • Where Can You Find The Best Marketing VAs?
  • How Much Does a Marketing Virtual Assistant Cost?
  • 5 Tips For Managing & Leading Marketing VAs
  • Part Time Marketing VA vs Full Time. What Is Better?

What Is a Virtual Marketing Assistant?

A marketing virtual assistant, also known as a marketing VA or digital marketing VA, is a remote worker who assists with various marketing tasks to help your business grow.

They specialize in digital marketing and can handle a wide range of tasks, from social media management to email marketing, SEO, PPC advertising, and more.

We’ll give you a list of 30 in the next section so you can really see how they can help grow your business.

A marketing assistant can help you create and implement marketing strategies, design and run campaigns, track and analyze data, and provide support in many other areas of digital marketing.

They can save you time and money by taking care of essential marketing tasks, allowing you to focus on other critical aspects of your business.

Plus, since they work remotely, you can hire a marketing VA from anywhere in the world, giving you access to a more extensive pool of talented professionals.

What Does a Marketing VA Do?

marketing virtual assistant tasks

Here’s a list of 30 marketing tasks that a virtual assistant can help you with:

  1. Social media management (creating and scheduling posts)
  2. Social media account setup and optimization
  3. Community engagement (replying to comments and messages)
  4. Social media advertising (creating and managing campaigns)
  5. Influencer outreach and management
  6. Content creation (blogs, videos, graphics, etc.)
  7. Keyword research for SEO
  8. On-page optimization (meta tags, descriptions, etc.)
  9. Off-page optimization (link building, guest blogging)
  10. Website management (updates, maintenance, backups)
  11. Email marketing (newsletter creation and management)
  12. Lead generation (finding and qualifying leads)
  13. Landing page creation and optimization
  14. PPC advertising (Google Ads, Facebook Ads, etc.)
  15. A/B testing and optimization of marketing campaigns
  16. Data analysis and reporting
  17. Customer research (surveys, market analysis)
  18. Competitor research and analysis
  19. Sales funnel creation and optimization
  20. CRM management (customer relationship management)
  21. Affiliate marketing management
  22. Webinar setup and promotion
  23. E-commerce marketing (product descriptions, pricing research)
  24. Influencer research and outreach
  25. Graphic design (creating images, infographics, etc.)
  26. Video editing and production
  27. Podcast management (editing, scheduling, promotion)
  28. Web development (landing pages, microsites, etc.)
  29. Analytics and data visualization
  30. Conversion rate optimization (CRO)

I personally have hired Marketing VAs for the majority of these roles.

It really comes down to what marketing strategies you’re the most focused on and what you want to get off your plate.

For me personally, I like to perfect the marketing strategy process first then pass it off to a Marketing VA who can take it over, improve the process, and drive traffic using that strategy.

Where Can You Find The Best Marketing VAs?

Here are five websites where you can find and hire digital marketing virtual assistants:

  1. MarketerHire – MarketerHire is an excellent platform for hiring expert marketing freelancers, including virtual assistants. They have a rigorous vetting process and only work with top-tier marketing professionals. They offer a variety of marketing services, including SEO, social media, content marketing, PPC, and more.
  2. Upwork – Upwork is a popular online marketplace for freelancers of all kinds, including marketing virtual assistants. You can post a job description and receive proposals from marketing VAs all over the world. Upwork offers a variety of tools to help you manage your virtual assistant, such as time tracking and project management tools.
  3. Freelancer.com – Freelancer.com is another popular platform for hiring virtual assistants and freelancers. They have a large pool of marketing professionals available, and you can easily browse profiles and reviews to find the right fit for your business. They offer a variety of payment options and tools to help manage your virtual assistant.
  4. Fiverr – Fiverr is an online marketplace where you can hire freelancers for a wide range of tasks, including digital marketing. They have a large pool of marketing virtual assistants available and offer fixed-price packages for many services. You can browse through profiles, reviews, and portfolios to find the right virtual assistant for your business.
  5. OnlineJobs.ph – OnlineJobs.ph is a job board for Filipino virtual assistants and remote workers. They have a vast pool of marketing VAs available, and you can post a job description and receive applications from qualified candidates. OnlineJobs.ph also offers tools to help you manage your virtual assistant, such as a time tracker and task management tools.

I have personally hired from all of these sites. Each has its own experience and pool of talent for marketing assistants.

For the most specialized skills, go to MarketerHire.

If you’re looking for a more general purpose Marketing VA, the other four will work perfectly.

How Much Does a Marketing Virtual Assistant Cost?

marketing va costs

The cost of hiring a digital marketing virtual assistant can vary depending on various factors, such as their experience level, location, and the scope of work required.

In general, a digital marketing virtual assistant can charge anywhere from $8 to $50 per hour, with some charging even more based on their experience and specialized skills.

Some virtual assistant platforms may charge a higher rate to connect you with their top-tier talent, while others may offer more affordable rates for less experienced or entry-level VAs.

Additionally, you may find that hiring a VA from overseas, such as the Philippines or India, may offer a cost-effective solution for your business. On average, you’ll find Marketing VAs from $8 to $25 per hour. 

It’s important to keep in mind that hiring a virtual assistant is an investment in your business, and a high-quality digital marketing virtual assistant can help you save time and money in the long run by improving your marketing efforts and increasing your business’s revenue.

When considering the cost of a digital marketing virtual assistant, it’s essential to assess your business’s needs and determine how much support you require.

You can also negotiate with your virtual assistant on the scope of work and the pricing structure that works best for both parties.

Overall, the cost of hiring a digital marketing VA will vary depending on where you find them, where they live in the world, and what skills and experience they have.

Hiring a virtual assistant is very similar to hiring a full time employee in that their price will vary depending on a number of factors.

5 Tips For Managing & Leading Marketing VAs

As you start working with a marketing VA, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Set clear expectations: To ensure that your marketing virtual assistant knows what you expect of them, it’s important to set clear expectations. Clearly outline their role and responsibilities, as well as any specific goals or deadlines that need to be met.
  2. Communicate regularly: Regular communication is key to a successful working relationship with your virtual assistant. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress and provide feedback. Make sure to be clear and concise in your communication and encourage your virtual assistant to ask questions and provide feedback.
  3. Provide training and resources: If your marketing virtual assistant is new to your business or your industry, it’s important to provide them with the training and resources they need to succeed. This may include access to industry-specific tools or training materials, as well as guidance on your business’s processes and procedures.
  4. Use project management tools: To stay organized and keep track of tasks and deadlines, use project management tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com. These tools can help you and your marketing virtual assistant stay on the same page and ensure that tasks are completed on time.
  5. Show appreciation: A little bit of appreciation can go a long way in motivating your marketing virtual assistant. Make sure to show your appreciation for their hard work and accomplishments, whether it’s through regular feedback, bonuses, or other incentives. By showing that you value their work, you can help build a positive and productive working relationship with your virtual assistant.

Want further inspiration for how you can grow your business to 7 figures and beyond with marketing VAs? Check out this video:

Part Time Marketing VA vs Full Time. What Is Better?

marketing va full time

Here are some pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:

Pros of a part-time marketing virtual assistant:

  • Cost-effective: Hiring a part-time marketing VA can be more cost-effective for businesses that only require a few hours of work per week or have a smaller budget.
  • Flexibility: Part-time VAs can offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling, which can be ideal for businesses that only need assistance during certain hours or on specific projects.
  • Variety of skillsets: By hiring part-time VAs, you can tap into a variety of skill sets without having to commit to a full-time hire.

Cons of a part-time marketing virtual assistant:

  • Limited availability: Part-time VAs may have limited availability, which can be challenging for businesses that require consistent support or have tight deadlines.
  • Limited commitment: Part-time VAs may not be as invested in your business’s success as a full-time hire would be, which could impact the quality of their work or their ability to take on more complex projects.
  • May require more training: If you hire multiple part-time VAs, it may require more training and coordination to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Pros of a full-time marketing virtual assistant:

  • Consistent support: A full-time VA can offer consistent support, which can be ideal for businesses that require ongoing assistance or have frequent marketing needs.
  • More invested: A full-time VA is likely to be more invested in your business’s success and can become a valuable long-term asset to your team.
  • More opportunity for growth: With a full-time VA, you have the opportunity to develop a deeper working relationship and provide ongoing training and support to help them grow within their role.

Cons of a full-time marketing virtual assistant:

  • More expensive: Hiring a full-time VA can be more expensive, as you’ll need to pay for their salary, benefits, and any other associated costs.
  • Less flexibility: A full-time VA may have less flexibility in terms of scheduling and may require more structure and oversight.
  • Limited skill sets: Hiring a full-time VA may limit your ability to tap into a variety of skill sets, as you’ll need to find someone who can handle a broad range of marketing tasks.

What Is Outsouce School?

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: 

Conclusion

Hiring a Marketing Virtual Assistant can be a game changer. 

I speak from personal experience.

If you want the following, a marketing VA is right for you: 

  • Less repetitive marketing work on your plate
  • Someone you can give quick tasks to
  • A reliable person you can teach new marketing strategies
  • Someone that brings a skill set you don’t have to the team
  • More website traffic, leads, and customers
  • More time to spend on higher level tasks

If you have any questions about hiring a Marketing VA, feel free to reach out at Connor@OutsourceSchool.com.

Happy hiring!

Categories
Virtual Assistants

Is a Part Time Virtual Assistant Worth It?

virtual assistant working

Wondering if a part time virtual assistant is a good hire for your business? 

You can hire virtual assistants part time and full time and still get remarkable results.

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’m an Owner and the CMO of Outsource School, EcomBalance, and AccountsBalance. With my last company, I hired 45+ virtual assistants and scaled to 8 figures with an exit in 2019.

I’ve hired virtual assistants part time, full time, and everything in between.

In this article, I’ll share everything you need to know about hiring a part time virtual assistant.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

  • Is It Possible to Be a Part Time Virtual Assistant?
  • What Does a Part Time Virtual Assistant Do?
  • What Is The Hourly Rate for a Virtual Assistant?
  • How Many Hours Does a Part Time Virtual Assistant Work?
  • Case Study: How A Part Time VA Helped Us Get More Done Faster
  • Part Time VAs vs Full Time VAs

Let’s get started!

Is It Possible to Be a Part Time Virtual Assistant?

Are you wondering if you can dip your toes into the virtual assistant waters without diving in headfirst?

Well, the short answer is yes! It is absolutely possible to hire a part-time virtual assistant.

In fact, many virtual assistants start out part-time while they build up their skills and client base.

This can be a great way to for them to test the waters and see if being a virtual assistant is the right fit for them.

One of the great things about hiring a virtual assistant is the flexibility they have. They can work as much or as little as you want, depending on what you need for your business.

So, whether they’re a stay-at-home parent, a student, or just looking for a side hustle, you can find extremely smart part-time virtual assistants.

Of course, hiring a part-time virtual assistant does come with its own set of challenges. You’ll need to be organized and efficient with your time to make sure you’re helping the virtual assistant be as efficient as possible.

What Does a Part Time Virtual Assistant Do?

part time virtual assistant

Some common tasks that part-time virtual assistants might be asked to handle include:

  • Email management: This could involve everything from responding to emails on behalf of your client to sorting through their inbox and flagging important messages.
  • Scheduling: As a part-time virtual assistant, they might be responsible for managing their client’s calendar, scheduling appointments and meetings, and sending reminders.
  • Data entry: Some clients may need help with data entry, such as inputting information into spreadsheets or databases.
  • Social media management: If you have a social media presence, the VA may be responsible for managing the accounts, creating posts, and responding to comments.
  • Research: You may ask the VA to conduct research on a particular topic, such as market trends or competitor analysis.
  • Customer service: You can hire a VA to be responsible for handling customer service inquiries, such as responding to emails or chat messages.

The opportunities are endless.

Check out this guide for more inspiration: 30 Tasks a Small Business Virtual Assistant Can Take On.

The most important thing is to set the expectations clear upfront and make sure they’re good at communicating. 

Want to learn more about hiring a virtual assistant? Check out this video from Travis Marziani.

What Is The Hourly Rate for a Virtual Assistant?

The hourly rate for a virtual assistant can vary widely depending on several factors, including their level of experience, the tasks you need them to perform, and their location.

Generally speaking, though, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $75 per hour.

At the lower end of the scale, you might find virtual assistants who are just starting out and are willing to work for a lower rate to gain experience.

These VAs might be based in countries with a lower cost of living, which can also contribute to their lower rates.

On the higher end of the scale, you’ll find more experienced virtual assistants who specialize in a particular area, such as social media management or bookkeeping.

These VAs may have advanced skills and certifications that justify their higher rates.

Here are some factors that can impact the hourly rate for a virtual assistant:

  • Experience level: As with any profession, the more experience a virtual assistant has, the more they’ll likely charge.
  • Geographic location: Virtual assistants based in areas with a higher cost of living may charge more than those in lower-cost areas.
  • Task complexity: If you need a VA to perform more complex tasks, such as bookkeeping or web development, you can expect to pay a higher rate.
  • Task volume: If you have a large volume of work that needs to be done, you may be able to negotiate a lower hourly rate.

Overall, the hourly rate for a virtual assistant is an investment in the success of your business.

By outsourcing administrative tasks to a VA, you can free up your time to focus on growing your business and increasing your revenue.

So, don’t be afraid to shop around and find a virtual assistant who offers the skills and experience you need at a rate that works for your budget!

How Many Hours Does a Part Time Virtual Assistant Work?

part time va

The number of hours a part-time virtual assistant works can vary depending on several factors, such as their availability, your budget, and the workload you have for them.

In general, though, a part-time virtual assistant usually works between 5 and 30 hours per week.

Here are some factors that can impact how many hours a part-time virtual assistant works:

  • Availability: If your virtual assistant has other clients or commitments, their availability may be limited. You’ll need to work with them to establish a schedule that works for both of you.
  • Budget: The number of hours a part-time virtual assistant works can depend on your budget. If you have a smaller budget, you may only be able to afford a few hours per week.
  • Workload: The number of hours a part-time virtual assistant works can also depend on the workload you have for them. If you have a lot of tasks that need to be done, you may need to hire them for more hours.

It’s important to note that even if a part-time virtual assistant works fewer hours than a full-time assistant, they can still be incredibly valuable to your business.

By outsourcing administrative tasks to a part-time VA, you can free up your time to focus on revenue-generating activities, such as marketing and sales.

Case Study: How A Part Time VA Helped Us Get More Done Faster

A few years ago when I started hiring VAs, my team and I were struggling to keep up with our workload.

We were constantly bogged down with admin tasks, such as scheduling appointments, responding to emails, and managing our social media accounts.

We knew we needed help, but we didn’t have the budget to hire a full-time assistant.

That’s when we decided to hire a part-time virtual assistant.

We found a VA who had experience in the areas we needed help with, such as social media management and email management.

We set her up with the tools and resources she needed to get started, and we established a clear set of expectations and deadlines.

The results were astounding. With our new virtual assistant taking care of administrative tasks, my team and I were able to focus on revenue-generating activities, such as marketing and sales.

We were able to get more done faster, and our business started to grow at a faster pace.

Not only did our part-time virtual assistant help us get more done, but she also brought a fresh perspective and new ideas to the table.

She was able to suggest new social media strategies and help us streamline our email management processes.

Overall, hiring a part-time virtual assistant was one of the best decisions we made for our business.

It allowed us to be more productive and efficient, while also freeing up our time to focus on what we do best.

Part Time VAs vs Full Time VAs

virtual assistant working

Full-time VA:

Pros:

  • More availability: A full-time VA will be available to work for you during regular business hours, so you can get more done in a shorter amount of time.
  • More consistency: You’ll have the same person working for you consistently, which can lead to better communication and a stronger working relationship.
  • More skills and experience: The VA may have more skills and experience, as they’ll have had more time to develop their abilities.

Cons:

  • Higher cost: They will generally be more expensive than a part-time VA, as you’ll need to pay for their salary, benefits, and other expenses.
  • Potentially more responsibility: You may need to provide more guidance and oversight, as they’ll be working for you more consistently.

Part-time VA:

Pros:

  • Lower cost: A part-time VA will generally be less expensive than a full-time VA, as you’ll only need to pay for the hours they work.
  • More flexibility: With a VA part time, you can adjust their hours and workload to suit your needs, which can be helpful if your business has seasonal or fluctuating demands.
  • Less responsibility: You may have less responsibility for managing and overseeing their work.

Cons:

  • Less availability: They may not be available to work for you during all of your business hours, which can be limiting.
  • Less consistency: You may be working with different people at different times, which can lead to communication challenges.
  • Potentially less experience: They may not have as much experience as a full-time VA, as they may not have had as much time to develop their skills.

What Is Outsource School?

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: 

Conclusion

“Can you hire a virtual assistant part time?”

“Yes, you can!”

I hope that you believe this now as well.

Get out there, post a job, and start interviewing.

If you need help taking those steps, check out Outsource School.

It’s our exact hiring system that we’ve used to hire 100s of virtual assistants for our companies.

Happy virtual assistant hiring!

Categories
Virtual Assistants

What is a Remote Virtual Assistant and What Do They Do?

remote virtual assistant

Thinking about hiring a remote virtual assistant?

You’re in the right place!

My name is Connor Gillivan. I’ve been an entrepreneur for the past 10 years and I’ve hired 100s of remote virtual assistants for my companies.

They’ve helped me scale to 6, 7, and 8 figures in sales and profits per year with an exit in 2019.

In this article, I’ll share everything I know about hiring remote virtual assistants, so you can tap into their power as well.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

  • What Is A Remote Virtual Assistant?
  • How Much Money Can You Make As A Virtual Assistant?
  • 15 Remote Virtual Assistant Tasks
  • Case Study: How A Remote Virtual Assistant Can Transform Your Business
  • Final Remote Virtual Assistant Tips

Let’s get into it!

What Is A Remote Virtual Assistant?

Essentially, a remote virtual assistant is someone who works for you from a remote location, providing various administrative, creative, or technical tasks to support your online business.

They can help with things like customer support, social media management, content creation, email marketing, and more.

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a remote virtual assistant is the flexibility it offers.

You don’t need to worry about office space, equipment, or anything like that.

They work from their own location and you communicate with them via phone, Zoom, email, or other online communication tools like Slack.

Plus, because they’re working remotely, you have access to a global talent pool, which means you can find the best person for the job no matter where they are in the world.

Of course, like any employee, it’s important to find the right fit for your business.

You want someone who is reliable, trustworthy, and capable of handling the tasks you need them to do.

And while it can take some time to find the perfect virtual assistant, once you do, the benefits can be immense.

So, if you’re an online entrepreneur looking to scale your business, hiring a remote virtual assistant could be just what you need to take things to the next level.

Trust me, I’ve been there and it’s been a game-changer for me and my companies.

Here’s a video as well to learn more:

How Much Money Can You Make As A Virtual Assistant?

remote va

Generally speaking, virtual assistants can make anywhere from $5-$30 per hour, with some experienced VAs charging even more.

Of course, this can vary depending on your location, niche, and the type of services you offer.

For example, if you specialize in high-level technical or creative tasks, you may be able to charge more than someone who is providing basic administrative support.

Similarly, if you have a particular expertise or certification, that can also increase your earning potential.

Another important factor to consider is the demand for virtual assistants in your particular niche or industry.

If you’re working in a high-growth industry with lots of online businesses, there may be more demand for your services, which can drive up your rates.

We share this information so that you as a business owner can understand what virtual assistants are making across different countries and industries.

It’s not a one price fits all model. The price of hiring a VA will vary depending on what you’re looking for them to do for your business.

15 Remote Virtual Assistant Tasks

Gere are the 15 most common remote virtual assistant tasks:

  1. Email management: sorting, responding to emails, and keeping an organized inbox
  2. Social media management: creating and scheduling posts, engaging with followers, and monitoring analytics
  3. Calendar management: scheduling appointments, coordinating meetings, and managing deadlines
  4. Customer service: responding to inquiries and resolving issues through email or chat support
  5. Data entry: entering and organizing data in spreadsheets or databases
  6. Internet research: conducting market research, finding new leads, and gathering information on competitors
  7. Travel arrangements: booking flights, hotels, and transportation for business trips
  8. Content creation: writing blog posts, creating graphics, and editing videos or podcasts
  9. Bookkeeping: managing invoices, expenses, and financial records
  10. Event planning: coordinating virtual events and webinars, managing guest lists, and handling logistics
  11. SEO optimization: improving website rankings through keyword research and optimization
  12. Online advertising: creating and managing ad campaigns on platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads
  13. Personal assistant tasks: managing personal appointments, shopping, and other personal errands
  14. Proofreading and editing: reviewing written content for errors and making necessary corrections
  15. Lead generation: finding potential clients or customers and generating leads for the business

Of course, this is just a sample of the many tasks that virtual assistants can handle.

The specific tasks you delegate to your remote virtual assistant will depend on your business needs and the expertise of your virtual assistant.

Case Study: How A Remote Virtual Assistant Can Transform Your Business

remote virtual assistant

Let me tell you a story about an entrepreneur friend that I know who decided to hire a remote VA for her business.

Before Hiring a VA

Before hiring a virtual assistant, Sarah was running a successful e-commerce business.

However, Sarah was feeling overwhelmed and burnt out from trying to handle everything on her own.

She was spending all of her time managing orders, responding to customer inquiries, and trying to keep up with social media.

She was working long hours and weekends, and she felt like she couldn’t keep up with the demands of the business.

After Hiring a VA

That’s when Sarah decided to hire a remote virtual assistant to help her manage the day-to-day tasks of the business.

She found a virtual assistant who had experience in e-commerce and social media management, and they started working together right away.

The impact of hiring a virtual assistant was almost immediate. With her virtual assistant handling customer inquiries and managing social media, Sarah was able to free up several hours each day.

She no longer had to worry about staying on top of every little detail, and she was able to focus on growing the business in other ways.

Sarah used the extra time to work on developing new products, improving her website, and developing a marketing strategy.

She also took some much-needed time off, knowing that her virtual assistant had everything under control.

What Happened Next?

Over time, Sarah’s business continued to grow and thrive. She was able to launch new product lines and expand her customer base, all while working fewer hours than before.

Her virtual assistant continued to provide reliable and efficient support, and Sarah was able to trust that her business was in good hands.

Looking back on her decision to hire a virtual assistant, Sarah said it was one of the best decisions she ever made for her business.

She was able to reclaim her time and focus on the things that mattered most, all while growing her business and achieving new levels of success.

Final Remote Virtual Assistant Tips

virtual assistant working

Here are my top 5 tips for entrepreneurs looking to hire a remote virtual assistant:

  1. Clearly define the tasks and responsibilities: Before hiring a virtual assistant, make sure you have a clear understanding of the tasks and responsibilities you want to delegate. This will help you find a virtual assistant with the right skills and experience for the job.
  2. Set clear expectations and communication channels: It’s important to establish clear communication channels with your virtual assistant and set expectations for response times, project deadlines, and other important details. This will ensure that you and your virtual assistant are on the same page and can work together efficiently.
  3. Look for relevant experience: When hiring a virtual assistant, look for someone with relevant experience in your industry or field. This will help ensure that your virtual assistant can hit the ground running and provide valuable insights and support for your business.
  4. Consider personality fit: Hiring a virtual assistant is not just about skills and experience, it’s also important to find someone who is a good personality fit for you and your business. Look for someone who shares your values and communication style, and who you feel comfortable working with.
  5. Start small and build trust: When hiring a virtual assistant for the first time, start with a small project or set of tasks to build trust and ensure that the virtual assistant is a good fit for your business. As you build trust and confidence in your virtual assistant, you can gradually delegate more tasks and responsibilities.

What Is Outsource School?

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: 

Conclusion

Remote virtual assistants can be absolute game changers.

Think of a life where:

  • You have time to go on vacation
  • Repetitive tasks are handled by your VA
  • You spend less time in your email
  • You have more time to focus on growth
  • You’re not overworked and underpaid
  • You trust your team of virtual assistants
  • You could step away and not worry about the business

If that’s a life you’re interested in, go out and hire a remote VA asap!

If you have questions about how to do it, reach out to me at Support@OutsourceSchool.com.

Happy hiring!

Categories
Virtual Assistants

A Guide to Start and Run a Virtual Assistant Business

virtual assistant business

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

va 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

va 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

virtual assistant business services

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: 

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!

Categories
Virtual Assistants

30 Tasks a Small Business Virtual Assistant Can Take On

small business virtual assistant

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

small business virtual assistant tasks

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?

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: 

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!