19 Best Virtual Assistant
Freelancers
to Hire
in 2023

A virtual assistant, also known as VA, is a person who provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients remotely. Virtual assistants are typically self-employed and work from their own homes or co-working spaces. They use communication tools like email, messaging, and video conferencing to communicate with their clients. They can assist with tasks such as managing emails, scheduling meetings, social media management, bookkeeping, and much more. Virtual assistants offer a convenient and cost-effective solution for businesses and individuals who need assistance without the need for physical office space.

The job description for a freelance Virtual Assistant (VA) includes offering remote administrative, technical, or creative support to clients on a project basis or by the hour. The virtual assistance and services provided by a freelance VA can vary depending on their skills and expertise, but some common tasks they can assist with include:

1. Email management: A freelance VA can handle your emails by responding to clients and sorting through your inbox.
2. Meeting and appointment scheduling: Virtual Assistants can help with scheduling meetings and appointments, both professional or personal.
3. Social media management: A VA can manage your social media accounts by creating posts, engaging with followers, and implementing social media strategies.
4. Content creation: Freelance VAs can create various content types like blog posts, articles, and social media posts.
5. Research: VAs can carry out research to help clients with projects effectively.
6. Bookkeeping and Data Entry: VAs who specialize in bookkeeping can help you keep track of finances and manage invoices.
7. Customer support: A VA can provide customer support to the clients by answering phone calls and responding to queries.

Freelance VAs offer flexible working hours and are a great solution for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and busy professionals who need assistance with administrative tasks but don't want to hire a full-time employee.

There are many reasons to hire a Virtual Assistant, including:

1. Increased productivity: By outsourcing administrative tasks, you can focus on your core business activities, which can boost productivity.
2. Cost savings: Virtual Assistants usually charge by the hour or on a project basis and don't require office space, equipment, or benefits. This can save you money compared to hiring a full-time in-house personal assistant.
3. Flexible working hours: If you need assistance during non-traditional work hours, Virtual Assistants can often accommodate your schedule.
4. Scalability: Virtual Assistants can be hired on an as-needed basis, meaning you can scale up or down according to your business needs.
5. Specialized skills: Virtual Assistants often have specialized skills which you may not possess or have the time to develop.
6. Improved work-life balance: By outsourcing administrative tasks, you can free up more time for personal pursuits or spending time with family and friends.
7. Reduced stress: By delegating tasks, you can minimize your workload, which can reduce stress and improve your well-being.

In conclusion, hiring a Virtual Assistant can provide many benefits that can help you boost productivity, save costs, and improve your work-life balance.

There are several steps to follow when hiring a Virtual Assistant:

1. Define your needs: Start by creating a list of tasks you need assistance with, including your preferred communication methods and the hours you require assistance.
2. Determine your budget: Determine your budget for hiring a Virtual Assistant and the payment model you will use.
3. Research potential candidates: Look for freelancers on Contra to find the right Virtual Assistant for your business.
4. Interview candidates: Consider conducting a virtual interview with potential candidates. It's important to ask specific questions about their skills, work experience, and availability.
5. Assess their skills: Consider giving candidates a trial task to gauge their skill level.
6. Set expectations: Set clear expectations on deadlines, communication methods, and project scope.
7. Sign a contract: After selecting a candidate, create a contract that outlines the terms and expectations of the project.
8. Onboard and train: Orient the Virtual Assistant about your business operations, systems, and processes. Also, provide them with access to the tools and resources they need to perform their duties effectively.

In summary, hiring a Virtual Assistant involves several steps, from defining your needs to training and onboarding. By following these steps, you can find the right candidate and ensure a productive working relationship.

Virtual Assistants use various software tools to communicate with clients, manage tasks, and collaborate remotely. The software tools used by Virtual Assistants depend on the specific needs of the client and their area of specialization. Here are some common software tools used by Virtual Assistants:

1. Communication tools: To communicate with clients, VAs use tools like Skype, Zoom, Slack, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams.
2. Project management tools: For task management, VAs use platforms such as Trello, Asana, or Basecamp, which can help with scheduling, task tracking, and collaboration.
3. Cloud-based storage: Platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox or OneDrive allow VAs to store and share files securely.
4. Time tracking tools: Apps like Toggl, RescueTime, or TimeCamp can be used to track time spent on tasks and bill clients accurately.
5. Email management: Email management tools like Boomerang, Inbox by Gmail, and Unroll.me help VAs manage inbox clutter, unsubscribe from unwanted subscriptions, and schedule emails to send at specific times.
6. Social media management: For managing social media accounts, VAs use platforms like Hootsuite, Buffer, or Sprout Social. These tools can help with post scheduling, analytics, and audience engagement.
7. Bookkeeping software: For managing finances and invoicing, VAs can use platforms like QuickBooks, FreshBooks, or Xero.

In summary, Virtual Assistants rely heavily on software tools to manage their tasks, communicate with clients, and stay organized.

Freelancers are paid commission-free on Contra. They may charge per project, per hour, or per milestone. Freelancers get paid for the work they produce for their clients. Clients must pay a minimum of $250 or $25 an hour to post an opportunity on Contra.

The cost of hiring a Virtual Assistant varies depending on factors such as the type of services required, the level of experience of the VA, the project scope and complexity, and the location of the VA. Here are some cost estimates:

1. Hourly rates: Many Virtual Assistants charge by the hour and rates can range from $15 to $50 per hour depending on their experience and skills. Rates for more specialized tasks or services that require extensive experience or knowledge can be higher.
2. Project-based rates: For larger projects, VAs may charge a fixed fee. The fee will depend on the complexity of the project and the estimated number of hours required to complete it.
3. Monthly retainer: Some Virtual Assistants offer a monthly retainer rate. This means that they work on an ongoing basis for a fixed number of hours per month at an agreed-upon rate.
4. Payment Models: Payment models adopted by VAs include hourly payments, flat fees, or a combination of both.

It's worth noting that while hiring a Virtual Assistant costs less than hiring an in-house employee, it's still important to ensure that the cost fits within your budget. It's a good idea to define your budget before hiring a VA and discuss the payment terms and rates upfront.

The salary of Virtual Assistants varies depending on various factors, including their level of experience, skills, and the location where they work. In the United States, the median hourly rate for a Virtual Assistant is around $20, as per various online surveys. However, hourly rates can range from $10 to $50 per hour. Virtual Assistants may also offer package deals rather than charging on an hourly basis.

Generally, Virtual Assistants who have advanced training and specialized skills such as bookkeeping, social media management, or marketing command higher rates. The earning potential of a Virtual Assistant depends on their ability to provide quality services and deliver results that meet the client's needs. Additionally, Virtual Assistants may also earn more by offering additional services such as consulting, project management, or specialized training.

Here are some steps you can follow to start working as a Virtual Assistant:

1. Identify your skills: The first step is to identify your skill set and expertise. Consider your strengths, interests, and previous work experience to determine the services you can offer as a VA.
2. Develop a business plan: Create a business plan that outlines your services, target market, pricing, and marketing strategies.
3. Define your target market: Identify the type of clients you want to work with and develop a customer persona that outlines their needs, pain points, and preferred communication methods.
4. Choose your niche: Select a specific area of specialization where you can offer high-quality services. Specializing in a niche can make you stand out from competitors and help attract clients who need specialized services.
5. Set up a home office: Create a comfortable workspace in your home with all the necessary equipment and tools you need to work as a VA.
6. Create your online presence: Create a portfolio on Contra that showcases your services and skills and includes your contact information. Also, optimize your social media profiles to promote your services and connect with potential clients.
7. Network and gain experience: Join online communities like Contra and participate in industry events to increase your visibility and connect with potential clients. Also, offer your services at a discounted rate initially or work for free to build your experience and portfolio.
8. Set your prices: Determine your rates based on your level of experience and the complexity of the tasks you will be performing.

In summary, working as a Virtual Assistant requires identifying your skills, developing a business plan, establishing your online presence, networking, and building your experience. With these steps, you can start working as a Virtual Assistant and provide high-quality services to clients.

The qualifications needed for an assistant would vary based on the specific virtual assistant job. However, here are some qualifications that are commonly required:

1. Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent may be required. However, some assistant positions may require a bachelor's degree or specific training.
2. Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills are critical for assistants. The assistant will need to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and beat targets within limited timelines, requiring excellent time management, planning, and organization skills.
3. Communication Skills: Assistants must possess excellent oral and written communication skills. They should be professional in their approach to work and able to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients.
4. Technical Skills: Good typing speed, basic computer skills, and proficiency in software programs such as Microsoft Office are essential for most assistant positions.
5. Attention to Detail: Assistants must be detail-oriented and have the ability to maintain high levels of accuracy.
6. Confidentiality: Assistants are often privy to sensitive information. Thus, they must be trustworthy and able to maintain confidentiality.
7. Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service is a critical requirement for most assistant positions. Assistants should be friendly, courteous, and able to handle clients' inquiries and complaints.

In summary, assistants must have strong organizational, communication, technical, and customer service skills. They should also be detail-oriented, able to prioritize tasks, and maintain confidentiality.

Being a Virtual Assistant can be a good career choice for individuals who enjoy autonomy, flexibility, and working from home. Here are some reasons why being a Virtual Assistant can be a good career:

1. Flexibility: Virtual Assistants have the flexibility to work at their desired location, choose their working hours, and pick their clients.
2. Low Overhead: Being a Virtual Assistant has low overhead costs since you don't need to rent an office or purchase specialized equipment.
3. Career Advancement: Being a Virtual Assistant can pave the way for career advancement, such as specialization in a specific area or providing consultancy services.
4. Diverse Clientele: Virtual Assistants can work with clients from a variety of industries that can provide a diverse, exciting, and challenging set of projects.
5. Income Potential: Being a Virtual Assistant can offer a favorable income potential compared to full-time traditional employment based on the type of services you offer and the number of clients you work with.
6. Skill Development: Working as a Virtual Assistant allows you to develop new skills, explore new technology and management tools, and gain experience working in different businesses and across various sectors.

In summary, being a Virtual Assistant offers flexibility, low overhead costs, career advancement, and diverse clients. It can be a good career choice for those who enjoy working from home, possess relevant administrative skills, and want to develop their professional portfolio.