Virtual Assistance and You

We were discussing the differences between virtual assistants who work alone, and VA agencies. It was suggested that, particularly when it comes to a business’ internet branding and marketing, the multi-VA agency may provide the smoothest solution.

As a devoted loner VA, I take exception, of course.

It’s a classic argument. What will serve the customer better: the custom, heartful attention of an artisan or the sleek predictability delivered by an ‘organization.’

An agency is a one-stop shop, and most consumers like that a lot. What a pain to have to locate a web designer, web master, SEO expert, social media consultant, PPC wizard, graphic designer, etc., etc.

Even if you’re looking for more traditional administrative assistance, the agency idea may appeal. Why mess with looking for a transcriptionist, a database wiz, a travel planner, a writer, a bookkeeper … Your agency offers them all.

Have you ever noticed, though?  Agencies are made up of individuals.  In the end, you’re still dealing with a person, not an Operations Manual.

Just because you think the agency is awesome, individuals may or may not attain that standard.

There are many outfits attempting to replicate old structures in what’s called multi-VA businesses. My considered opinion is that this model is outdated and contradicts the true character and promise of the virtual assistant concept.

While no one VA can reasonably excel in all the kinds of administration a business may require, there’s a cool new way that VAs operate, which allows them to satisfy customers’ varied administrative requirements. In short, they don’t compete nearly as much as they refer work to one another.

Am I suggesting clients should have to contract with several different people to get all their admin needs covered? Perhaps. It’s not so different from, and still vastly easier than hiring in-house staff.

A better solution may be for the primary VA to sub out the work to others. This could be a bit more costly for the client since the organizing time must be compensated; but it may be worth the investment.

Note that this latter solution seems like an ‘agency’ structure. But the difference is that the team is created exclusively for the given client.

There’s a generic nature that an agency can’t avoid if it is to cohere. A VA, on the other hand, represents a skilled individual giving focused attention to your custom needs, and offering a unique ability to connect with others on your behalf.

Besides, I must admit, the VA agency idea rankles me because it suggests under-paid and under-skilled people working as employees. And a VA is a business owner, a partner to clients; not an employee.

A VA is a very real help to clients because of first-hand knowledge of the business world and the issues of business ownership.

No doubt many disagree with these thoughts. Please share your thoughts in the comments.