With the computerization of the work place, the role of the secretary is more of an administrator than typist or stenographer. Besides responsibility for correspondence, the administrative assistant may be asked to create and maintain databases, do some bookkeeping, maintain calendars, websites and interact more frequently with persons who have or want access to decision makers.

With the growing demand and improved internet services, the virtual assistant (VA), cyber assistant gained headway about 1995. (Internet article: Reynolds, Deanna. “Working from Home as a Virtual Assistant, ‘One of the Fastest Growing, Legitimate Work-at-home Careers”). The virtual assistant goes one step further than the administrative assistant. Like the administrative assistant the VA has strong administrative, organizational skills, and technical expertise, but works as an independent contractor, and does not “report” to an office, but works remotely.

Technical expertise allows the VA to make the most of today’s technology to work remotely and still successfully conduct client business. Unlike the administrative assistant, the virtual assistant may contract with several companies and with a variety of professionals such as attorneys, accountants, engineers, IT professionals, sales/marketing firms, small business, start ups, etc.

Rates will vary according to computer expertise required, and services to be provided. The rate for services range between $15 per hour and $45. A premium could be charged for requested certifications and years of experience. Some VAs provide services on retainer and may offer a discount for such an arrangement. As independent contractors, VAs do not receive benefits, paid holidays, etc. The employer can hire as needed.

Most importantly, office space, office equipment, temporary access to buildings and restrooms are not required. The hiring party receives the benefits of an additional employee without associated on-site service costs.

The cost of a Virtual Assistant can appear high if you try and compare it with the hourly wage businesses pay employees. These comparisons are misleading because the actual cost to company on an hourly wage includes additional social security and payroll taxes in addition to benefits. Also VA's tend to work more independently, especially after they understand your business and its processes. That saves businesses supervisory time and money.

Who should hire a virtual assistant? Internet site, Assisting You, Virtually, Inc.: Administrative Solutions for Entrepreneurs and Small Business, suggests you ask yourself the following questions:

• Are you comfortable with technology and communicating via computer and electronic devices?

• Are you organized and centered or is your work of an urgent nature and deadlines are an issue? If you answer “yes” to the first part of the question, then a va may work for you.

• Do you need staff to be available to you any time during the business day? Virtual assistants have many clients. Customer service is paramount in this relationship, however, the va may not be available on an on demand basis.

• Most importantly is the trust factor. Confidentiality may be an issue. Your VA may need access to your servers, etc. If you feel comfortable and you have built in security protocols, then the VA may work for you.

When seeking out a virtual assistant use similar criteria used to hire an administrative assistant. Ask for a resume or background information, references, proof of certifications or special skill sets requested, a sample contract with terms and conditions of service, pricing policies and recourse if not satisfied with the final product.

If contractual work requires the virtual assistant’s signature on terms and conditions of employment, check that he/she will signoff and make those forms available. Because the virtual assistant is a self-employed contractor, the virtual assistant should provide a Federal Tax ID number.

In an increasingly virtual business world, Virtual Assistant's are one reason why small businesses can compete more effectively without taking on overhead prematurely.