For most businesses, the lowest price VAs are not the best approach.
Sure, if you have great systems and explanations in place and you need execution, build out an army.
But if there’s a ton of nuance, ever-changing needs, and ultimate flexibility that you need, make sure you’re aligning the best fit with your needs.
Goal: I want a good priced virtual assistant, based in the U.S., that works part time excellently and has a happy life.
Sometimes full-timers are the way to go, and are dedicated solely to you in your company. Other times you need occasional and seasonal help.
For successful businesses that need to ramp up help quickly, it’s a waste of the owners time to hire, filter and manage VAs that are untrained and unqualified. It’s much better to go with those who are experienced in the field you’re hiring for.
That’s the filter I used when researching these.
BELAY
Specializing in providing high-quality, experienced US-based virtual assistants, BELAY is renowned for its exceptional executive assistant services. BELAY caters to a diverse range of industries, making it a top choice for entrepreneurs and small businesses alike[1]. Their pricing might be on the higher end, but this reflects the unparalleled quality of their service[1]. The onboarding process is made seamless with a free consultant, but keep in mind the cost can be high compared to other VA services[1][2].
– Best for: Executive assistance and a variety of industries[1].
– Quality level: High-quality, experienced US-based virtual assistants[1][2].
– Pricing: Higher than average, but reflects the quality of service[1].
– Pros: Excellent executive assistants, free consultant for onboarding, and a wide range of services[1][2].
– Cons: Higher cost compared to other virtual assistant companies[1].
Boldly
Boldly is the go-to for businesses in search of highly skilled virtual assistants[3]. Though their pricing can be more expensive compared to other platforms, their reputation for high-quality US-based VAs and support throughout the hiring process justify the cost[4]. However, note that Boldly does not offer a free trial[3].
– Best for: Businesses seeking highly skilled virtual assistants[3].
– Quality level: High-quality, experienced US-based virtual assistants[3].
– Pricing: Expensive compared to other virtual assistant platforms[3].
– Pros: Strong reputation, handpicked candidates, and support throughout the process[4].
– Cons: No free trial and relatively higher pricing[3].
Prialto
A favorite among solopreneurs and businesses in sales and insurance, Prialto offers professional, high-quality virtual assistants[5]. While their pricing, which starts at $1,200 per month for up to 55 hours of assistance, might be on the higher end, their tight quality control and provision for backup assistance make it a worthwhile investment[5].
– Best for: Solopreneurs and businesses in sales and insurance industries[5].
– Quality level: High-quality, professional virtual assistants[5].
– Pricing: Starts at $1,200 per month for up to 55 hours of assistance[5].
– Pros: Tight quality control, month-to-month basis, and backup assistance when needed[5].
– Cons: Higher pricing compared to some other virtual assistant services[5].
Fancy Hands
Fancy Hands stands out for its wide range of services, including administrative tasks and social media management, all carried out by US-based, native English-speaking virtual assistants[6]. They offer affordable task-based pricing[7], making them ideal for small businesses. However, they may not be the best choice for more complex or specialized tasks[7].
– Best for: A wide range of services, including administrative tasks and social media management[6].
– Quality level: US-based, native English-speaking virtual assistants[6].
– Pricing: Affordable, with task-based pricing[7].
– Pros: Offers a team of virtual assistants, discounts for hiring more assistants, and 24/7 availability[7].
– Cons: May not be suitable for more complex or specialized tasks[7].
Time Etc
Time Etc is known for their highly qualified, college-educated US-based virtual assistants who have an average of 12 years of experience[8]. They offer competitive pricing and features like unused hours rollover and a money-back guarantee. Their rigorous 10-step selection process further ensures the quality of their VAs[8].
– Best for: Teams and businesses needing highly qualified, US-based virtual assistants[4].
– Quality level: College-educated virtual assistants with an average of 12 years of experience[8].
– Pricing: Competitive pricing with features like unused hours rollover and a money-back guarantee[8].
– Pros: Rigorous 10-step selection process, experienced VAs, and a free trial[8].
– Cons: May not be the cheapest option for some businesses[8].
Zirtual
Best known for their dedicated account managers and seamless onboarding process, Zirtual offers experienced US-based virtual assistants[1]. Their pricing starts at $1,699 per month for 12 hours of task work, making them a pricier option, but the variety of services they offer and their focus on providing dedicated support may well justify the investment[1][9].
– Best for: Businesses seeking dedicated account managers and a seamless onboarding process[1].
– Quality level: High-quality, experienced virtual assistants[1].
– Pricing: Starts at $1,699 per month for 12 hours of task work[9].
– Pros: Offers dedicated account managers and a variety of services[1].
– Cons: Relatively higher pricing compared to some other virtual assistant services[9].
Uassist.ME
Uassist.ME stands out for its ability to offer strategic insights, manage customer databases, and generate B2B contacts[6]. Their high-quality, professional virtual assistants are US-based, and while their pricing information isn't readily available, their wide range of services suggests they offer competitive rates[6].
– Best for: Businesses seeking strategy insights, customer database, and B2B contacts[6].
– Quality level: High-quality, professional virtual assistants[6].
– Pricing: Not specified, but likely competitive with other virtual assistant services[6].
– Pros: Known for strategy insights and a wide range of services[6].
– Cons: Pricing information not readily available[6].
WoodBows
WoodBows is a top choice for businesses needing administrative tasks, marketing, and content writing services[2]. Their experienced virtual assistants ensure high-quality output, and while their pricing is not specified, it's likely competitive with other virtual assistant services[2].
– Best for: Businesses needing administrative tasks, marketing, and content writing services[2].
– Quality level: High-quality, experienced virtual assistants[2].
– Pricing: Not specified, but likely competitive with other virtual assistant services[2].
– Pros: Offers a variety of services and experienced virtual assistants[2].
– Cons: Pricing information not readily available[2].
MyOutDesk
If you need administrative support, marketing, and customer service, MyOutDesk might be your best bet[2]. Their experienced virtual assistants ensure top-notch service. While pricing information is not readily available, their broad range of services suggest competitive rates[2].
– Best for: Businesses needing administrative support, marketing, and customer service[2].
– Quality level: High-quality, experienced virtual assistants[2].
– Pricing: Not specified, but likely competitive with other virtual assistant services[2].
– Pros: Wide range of tasks and services offered[2].
– Cons: Pricing information not readily available[2].
OkayRelax
OkayRelax is perfect for solopreneurs and small businesses seeking dedicated assistants and task-based solutions[7]. Their experienced virtual assistants provide high-quality service at an affordable, task-based pricing model[7]. However, they might not be suitable for more complex or specialized tasks[7].
Choosing a US-based virtual assistant company can free up time, allowing you to focus on growing your business. The wide range of services these companies offer – from data entry, social media management, bookkeeping to scheduling appointments – can be instrumental in boosting your productivity and efficiency. All of these companies employ skilled team members, making them excellent choices for your business needs. Whether you're a startup or an established business, there's a virtual assistant service ready to help streamline your operations.
– Best for: Solopreneurs and small businesses seeking dedicated assistants and task-based solutions[7].
– Quality level: High-quality, experienced virtual assistants[7].
– Pricing: Affordable, with task-based pricing[7].
– Pros: Offers dedicated assistants, task-based solutions, and a wide range of services[7].
– Cons: May not be suitable for more complex or specialized tasks[7].
Section Citations:
[1] https://boldly.com/blog/the-best-virtual-assistant-companies-in-the-us-ranked/
[2] https://www.smallbizgenius.net/virtual-assistant-companies/
[3] https://www.investopedia.com/best-virtual-assistant-services-5115986
[4] https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-virtual-assistant-services/
[5] https://fitsmallbusiness.com/best-virtual-assistant-services-reviews/
[6] https://www.techradar.com/best/virtual-assistant-services
[7] https://www.virtualassistantassistant.com/us-virtual-assistants/
[8] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/best-virtual-assistant-companies-2023-124200028.html
[9] https://www.guru99.com/virtual-assistant-companies.html
Quality Level: Stringently Vetted Assistants Adhering to Rigorous Acceptance Standards
In the pursuit of selecting a virtual assistant, quality is paramount. To offer you a comparative glimpse into the quality standards upheld by the top 10 US-based virtual assistant companies, we have compiled the following list:
- BELAY: Known for their experienced and highly skilled US-based virtual assistants, BELAY adheres to rigorous acceptance standards that ensure high-quality services for their clients[1][2].
- Boldly: With a strong reputation in the industry, Boldly provides highly skilled and seasoned US-based virtual assistants committed to delivering top-notch service[3].
- Prialto: Prialto's offering stands out due to their professional virtual assistants who are meticulously managed under tight quality control systems[4].
- Fancy Hands: This company provides native English-speaking virtual assistants based in the US, ensuring clear communication and effective service delivery[5].
- Time Etc.: Time Etc. offers college-educated virtual assistants with an impressive average of 12 years of experience. Their stringent 10-step selection process ensures only the most qualified candidates make the cut[6].
- Zirtual: With experienced virtual assistants supported by dedicated account managers, Zirtual ensures high-quality service for their clients[1].
- Uassist.ME: Known for their strategic insights, Uassist.ME offers highly skilled and professional virtual assistants[5].
- WoodBows: WoodBows provides experienced virtual assistants who are well-versed in offering a variety of services, thereby ensuring a high-quality standard[2].
- MyOutDesk: Offering experienced virtual assistants capable of managing a broad range of tasks, MyOutDesk maintains high service quality for their clients[2].
- OkayRelax: Catering specifically to solopreneurs and small businesses, OkayRelax provides experienced virtual assistants committed to delivering quality service[7].
These US-based virtual assistant companies uphold rigorous standards in the vetting and acceptance of their assistants, ensuring that clients can rely on receiving outstanding services from seasoned professionals.
Section Citations:
[1] https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/virtual-assistant
[2] https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-virtual-assistant-services/ [3] https://www.guru99.com/virtual-assistant-companies.html
[4] https://www.investopedia.com/best-virtual-assistant-services-5115986
[5] https://www.smallbizgenius.net/virtual-assistant-companies/
[6] https://www.thebalancemoney.com/best-virtual-personal-assistant-services-5079587
[7] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/virtual-assistants-metaverse-metaviworld
How do Virtual Assistant Companies Vet their Assistants?
Virtual assistant companies typically have a thorough vetting process to ensure they hire highly skilled and experienced professionals. Here are some common steps involved in the vetting process:
1. Skills Assessment: Companies often start by assessing the candidate's administrative skills, attention to detail, and other relevant abilities through various tests and assessments[1][2].
2. Interview: Candidates usually go through one or more interviews to evaluate their communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall fit for the role[1][2].
3. Background Checks: Companies may conduct background checks to verify the candidate's education, work experience, and other relevant information[3].
4. Training: Once hired, virtual assistants often undergo training programs to familiarize them with the company's systems, protocols, and best practices[4][5][6].
5. Quality Control: Virtual assistant companies may have quality control measures in place, such as monitoring tools and performance evaluations, to ensure their assistants maintain a high standard of work[7][8].
By following these steps, virtual assistant companies can ensure they hire and retain highly skilled professionals who can provide top-notch services to their clients.
Citations:
[1] https://vervoe.com/recruitment-guides/how-to-hire-a-virtual-assistant/
[2] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-virtual-assistant-vetted-emilie-given
[5] https://www.supportshepherd.com/post/virtual-assistant-training
[6] https://www.myvirtudesk.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-training-a-virtual-assistant
[7] https://www.remotoworkforce.com/job-description/quality-control-virtual-assistant/
[8] https://www.quora.com/How-does-a-virtual-assistant-ensure-quality-control
Exploring Key Terms in Virtual Assistance Services
The field of virtual assistance is characterized by several key terms that help elucidate its operation, characteristics, and benefits. The following is a detailed exploration of these terms:
1. Virtual Assistant: A virtual assistant (VA) is a professional who provides various services to entrepreneurs, small businesses, or other professionals from a remote location. Their work can encompass a wide array of tasks, including administrative support, social media management, and more.
2. US-based: Refers to virtual assistants or virtual assistant companies located in the United States. US-based VAs may offer advantages in terms of time zone compatibility, language proficiency, and understanding of US business culture.
3. Pricing: The cost of hiring a virtual assistant can vary greatly depending on the tasks they are to perform, their level of experience, and the pricing model of the VA company. It could be hourly, project-based, or subscription-based.
4. Data Entry: One of the most common tasks handled by VAs, it involves inputting data into a system or spreadsheet.
5. Entrepreneurs: Many entrepreneurs turn to virtual assistants to help them with time-consuming tasks, allowing them to focus on the core aspects of their business.
6. Virtual Assistant Services: The wide array of tasks and roles that a virtual assistant can undertake, such as calendar management, email management, social media management, customer support, content writing, and more.
7. Freelancers: Some virtual assistants work as independent contractors or freelancers, offering their services on a project-by-project basis.
8. Full-time: A full-time virtual assistant works a standard work week, typically 40 hours, for their client or employer.
9. Executive Assistant: This is a specialized type of virtual assistant who typically provides support directly to a senior executive. Their tasks can include complex calendar management, handling confidential information, and more.
10. Time Zone: VAs can work in any time zone, depending on the location of their client. Some clients prefer VAs in their same time zone, while others prefer a VA who can work while they're off the clock.
11. Personal Assistant: A Personal Assistant (PA) or virtual personal assistant (VPA) often handles personal tasks for their clients, such as booking appointments, managing personal calendars, or even personal shopping.
12. Team Members: In a virtual assistant company, team members can include a range of roles such as VAs, account managers, project managers, and customer support personnel.
13. Years of Experience: This refers to the length of time a virtual assistant has spent in the profession. More experienced VAs often have a broader skill set and command higher rates.
14. Administrative Tasks: These are tasks related to office management and include activities like email management, scheduling appointments, data entry, bookkeeping, and more.
15. Bookkeeping: A specific type of administrative task, bookkeeping involves managing and recording a company’s financial transactions.
16. Customer Support: Some virtual assistants specialize in handling customer inquiries, complaints, or other interactions, serving as a remote customer support team.
17. College-educated: This term indicates that the VA has a degree from a college or university. Some clients may prefer to hire VAs with a specific educational background, especially for tasks that require specialized knowledge.
18. Outsourcing: The practice of hiring an external party to perform tasks or provide services, often to save costs, increase efficiency, or access specialized talent. Hiring a VA is a form of outsourcing.
19. Skillset: The collection of skills that a VA has. This can vary widely from assistant to assistant and may include things like web design, digital marketing, social media management, and more.
20. Startups: Newly established businesses that often have a significant need for flexible, cost-effective support services like those offered by VAs.
21. Part-Time: A part-time virtual assistant works fewer hours than a full-time assistant, typically on a flexible schedule based on the client's needs.
22. Hourly Rate: The fee charged by a virtual assistant for each hour of work. Hourly rates can vary widely based on the VA’s experience, skills, and location.
23. Philippines: The Philippines is a popular location for virtual assistant services due to its lower cost of living and high English language proficiency.
24. Web Design: A service offered by some VAs, involving creating or updating websites.
25. Digital Marketing: Many virtual assistants offer services in digital marketing, including social media management, email marketing, SEO, and content writing.
26. Staffing: The process of hiring personnel, in this context, the hiring of virtual assistants.
27. Real Estate: Some virtual assistants specialize in providing services for the real estate industry, including tasks like managing listings, scheduling showings, and handling correspondence with clients and other agents.
28. Business Needs: The specific tasks or objectives a business seeks to address when hiring a VA, such as handling administrative tasks, providing customer support, or managing social media.
29. Upwork: A popular online platform for freelancing services, where many virtual assistants offer their services.
30. Content Writing: A specific skill in creating written material for websites, blogs, social media, and other platforms. Many virtual assistants offer content writing as a service.
31. Onboarding: The process of integrating a new VA into a client's operations, often including training on specific systems and processes.
32. Graphic Design: Some VAs offer graphic design services, creating visuals for websites, social media, and other platforms.
33. Pricing Plans: Different packages offered by VA companies, often varying in terms of hours of service, specific tasks included, and level of expertise.
34. Invoicing: A specific task where the VA creates and sends invoices for the client.
35. U.S.-based VAs: Refers to virtual assistants who live and work in the United States.
36. Phone Calls: Many VAs handle phone-related tasks, such as making calls on behalf of the client, answering incoming calls, and managing voicemail.
37. Time-Consuming: Refers to tasks that take a large amount of time. Businesses often hire VAs to handle these kinds of tasks and free up more time for core business activities.
38. High-Quality: This term signifies superior service or output. High-quality virtual assistants provide top-notch, professional services to their clients.
39. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions. A VA may manage or create FAQs for a client's website or customer service portal.
This glossary provides insight into the terminology used in the virtual assistant industry and highlights the breadth of services offered, the types of clients served, and the various operating models in the field. By understanding these terms, businesses can better articulate their needs and expectations when engaging with a virtual assistant or a virtual assistant company.
This list just scratches the surface of the rich lexicon within the virtual assistance domain. Each term provides insight into the broad range of services, varied client types, and the adaptability of this thriving field. Whether it's a small business looking to outsource administrative tasks, an entrepreneur seeking social media management, or a busy professional needing personal task assistance, the varied skillset of a virtual assistant can be a valuable asset. The flexibility of hiring models, whether full-time, part-time, or freelance, along with varied pricing plans, offers a suitable solution for diverse business needs and budgets. Top-notch companies like BELAY, Time etc, Fancy Hands, Prialto, and Woodbows stand testament to the premium quality of VA services available in the market.
Last Updated on June 15, 2023 by Joe
