What is a Virtual Assistant? And did you really need it for your growing business?

Trisha Hizon

1/1/20213 min read

According to Investopedia, a Virtual Assistant is “an independent contractor who provides administrative services to clients while operating outside of the client's office.” In other words, they work remotely — but can still access all the tools they need to keep your business running smoothly.

Traditionally, VAs were experienced admin professionals who supported executives from afar. But now, the role has evolved. Many VAs are skilled in everything from content creation and customer service to graphic design, social media, and even light tech support.

As remote work becomes the norm, hiring a VA is no longer a luxury — it’s a practical, scalable solution for modern business owners.

If you're a solo business owner wearing all the hats — from marketing to admin to client management — you've probably wondered: Is it time to get some help? That’s where a Virtual Assistant (VA) comes in.

Let’s break it down — what a Virtual Assistant really is, what they do, and how they could be the smartest move you make this year for your business.

What Is a Virtual Assistant?

What Can a Virtual Assistant Actually Do?

The better question might be: What can’t they do?

Here are just a few things a VA can handle for you:

Social media management
Calendar and email management
Customer service or chat support
Research and data entry
Basic bookkeeping and invoicing
Travel and event bookings
Content writing or repurposing
Light graphic design (e.g., Canva)
Blog post formatting
Podcast or video editing
Setting up systems or automations
Organizing your digital files

In short, they take time-consuming tasks off your plate — so you can focus on growth, strategy, or even just having a proper lunch break.

Types of Virtual Assistants

Not all VAs are the same — and that’s a good thing!

🧰 General Virtual Assistant (aka GVA)

This is where I fall. A General VA is your right-hand support for the day-to-day admin and repeatable tasks. Things like managing your inbox, setting appointments, updating spreadsheets, formatting blog posts, or scheduling social content — all that behind-the-scenes stuff that keeps your business humming.

They’re usually the most flexible and cost-effective type of VA, especially if you’re just getting started with outsourcing.

🎯 Specialized Virtual Assistant

This type of VA focuses on one specific skill set, such as:

Bookkeeping
Social media strategy
Podcast management
SEO or web design
Email marketing
Video editing

They’re often more expensive than generalists, but worth it if you need high-level support in one area.

Not sure what you need yet? Start with a generalist and build from there.

Why You (Probably) Need a VA

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in the weeds, or constantly short on time — a VA could be the game-changer.

Here’s why:

They give you back your time. You can finally stop doing tasks that drain your energy and focus on the work that truly lights you up.
They’re flexible. You can hire a VA hourly, per task, or on a monthly retainer. It’s support on your terms.
You save money. Unlike employees, you don’t pay for lunch breaks, office space, or benefits. You only pay for what you need.
They help you scale. You can do more with less effort, because you’re no longer doing it all alone.

If you’re a solo business owner, creative, coach, or mumpreneur juggling business and family life — having a VA gives you the breathing room you didn’t know you needed. And that kind of support? Priceless.

So, How Do You Hire the Right VA?

Here’s what I suggest:

Get clear on what you want to delegate.
Make two lists: tasks you’d love to hand off, and tasks you still want to do yourself. This will help you identify what kind of VA you need.

Write a simple job description.
It doesn’t have to be fancy — just include the tasks, tools you use (like Gmail, Canva, etc.), and how many hours you’re expecting.

Ask for referrals.
Your biz buddies or online groups may know someone amazing. Personal recommendations are gold!

Schedule a discovery call.
Meet them via Zoom or phone. Get a feel for their communication style, ask about time zones, availability, rates, and experience.

Start with a trial.
A 30 to 90-day trial gives you both time to see if it’s a good fit. Start slow with a few tasks, and build up as trust grows.

Share your systems.
Whether it’s a screen recording, written SOP, or checklists — clear instructions make everyone’s life easier and reduce confusion.

Final Thoughts

Bringing on a Virtual Assistant isn’t just about outsourcing — it’s about building support systems that help you grow sustainably. It’s about freeing up your mental load so you can finally focus on what matters most.

In short: don’t let your business run you. Let a VA help you run it — smarter, calmer, and with more ease.

Need help from someone who already gets what solo business owners need?
That’s what I’m here for. Let’s chat and see how I can support your goals.