Virtual Assistants vs In-Person Assistants
What’s Right For You?
We all know it: the COVID-19 pandemic transformed how modern work is performed, but the scope of work of a personal assistant has largely been, and remains, an in-person need. Traditional personal assistants are available for in-person tasks like running errands, home organization, and managing household affairs like overseeing service providers. Remote virtual assistants work online and handle digital tasks like responding to emails, scheduling meetings, doing research, and updating databases. The support of either helps free up your time so you can concentrate on higher priorities. Assessing your workload and household dynamics, and if you need someone physically present to support those needs can help clarify your decision between hiring a remote virtual assistant or an in-person assistant. And good news- our personal assistants can handle both.
The Case for a Virtual Assistant
Hiring a virtual assistant can be a game-changer for business owners who want to save money but need flexibility and reliable support. They’re perfect for executives or busy individuals who don’t have time to deal with an overflowing inbox, completing research, or handling digital administrative tasks. When you hire a virtual assistant, you don’t need to be physically present with them to offload certain tasks so your schedule can remain flexible. Remote virtual assistant positions will open up your candidate pool to more experienced assistants who prefer to structure their day around providing remote support without wasting time on a commute.
The Case for an In-Person Assistant
In‑person assistants are valuable because you have direct access to them. They are physically present so they can run local errands, communicate with you in real-time, and handle onsite organizational support. Our personal assistants are conveniently located in your area, so they have more flexibility to respond to your changing needs. With an in-person personal assistant, you can create a stronger working relationship and feel truly supported and connected to your assistant.
Analyzing Your Specific Needs
If your stress is caused mostly by digital distractions, a virtual assistant is a smart way to reduce all the online clutter, but if you need access to local, real-time help, then a traditional personal assistant can provide the in-person support you need. Take the time to determine if you need a personal assistant vs a virtual assistant, and assess if you really need someone who is physically present and integrates into your daily routine at your location, or if a virtual assistant could provide relief from your biggest roadblocks.
Budget and Logistics
Often fully remote positions have a scope of work that requires a higher level of administrative skill, and with that, will come a higher hourly rate. However, many candidates are seeking remote work and may be willing to negotiate to a slightly lower hourly rate if it means they don’t need to be physically present.
Virtual assistants are often based in a different city, state, or even country so communication can be hindered across time zones. Asynchronous work where you don’t require meeting with your assistant and instead just need someone to pass off tasks to works well for a virtual assistant. In time, you’ll find that personal assistants can also work asynchronously, as trust develops and they become further integrated into your household operations and life.
Either way, The Middle’s personal assistants are always located in your city so even if you discover you only need remote support, you’ll be working with an assistant who knows your area and is in your time zone.
Ultimately, Only You Know What’s Best For You
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether to hire a virtual assistant or an in-person assistant. There is only the best fit for you today. Assess the tasks that you’re overwhelmed with, and make your decision based on your immediate needs. Whether you need access to someone by your side or virtual help, we have assistants who can ease your workload. When you’re ready, The Middle can guide you to the type of assistant who‘s the perfect fit for your business, your life, or both.
