Myth #1: Anyone with a computer and internet connection can be a VA.
Truth: While it might be easy for some people to invest in all the necessary equipment to start working online, there’s so much more to being a VA than having a good desktop computer or laptop and a stable internet connection. You need to have the appropriate skills and traits to be hired and also leverage your knowledge and expertise so you can stay in this career. More so, the recruitment process of any trusted company, agency, or client for any VA role is as thorough and rigid as they would do so with any other work positions.
Myth #2: VAs can only do administrative work.
Truth: When you see or hear the term “virtual assistant,” what comes to your mind? Some people might automatically think a VA only does administrative tasks or is simply a secretary online. In reality, it could describe a varied group of professionals also known as remote workers, who work closely with clients to support their businesses. Virtual assistants can be of any role—administrative assistant, content writer or editor, marketing strategist, social media manager, website or graphic designer, sales support, customer service, and more!
Myth #3: Or they can do everything you’d want them to do.
Truth: VAs are multi-talented, a big yes, but you can’t expect them to know how to do everything. Depending on the job description and their set of skills, they may be able to fulfill two or more roles at the same time (e.g. content writer/social media manager), but they will have their expertise.
Myth #4: The career is only for work-at-home parents.
Truth: Being a virtual assistant is appealing to moms and dads because they get to spend more time with their kids and supervise the household while still earning. However, anyone can be a VA, and it’s a great job for anyone who wants the flexibility they can’t get from a traditional 8-to-5. While it’s true that most virtual assistants are work-at-home parents, they choose the remote work life because of many reasons. Maybe they’re tired of their commute, they want to travel more, or desire a good work-life balance. For some, it might be easier to finish their studies or pursue higher learning while working as a VA.
Myth #5: Working as a VA means easy money.
Truth: They can work practically anywhere and they don’t have their bosses watching their every move, but that doesn’t mean earning is relatively easy. Similar to any other careers and profession, it’s all about hard work and perseverance for anyone to become a trusted VA. You need to step out of your comfort zone and never stop learning, communicate effectively, and always maintain integrity so you can survive in the virtual work space. Besides, with all the distractions at home they need to face, it takes a good amount of discipline to be an outstanding VA.
Myth #6: They don’t require onboarding and training.
Truth: Just like with typical in-house employees, newly-hired VAs also need onboarding, training, and constant communication regarding the processes, procedures, and task expectations. Sure, they can catch up fast, but you can’t expect them to hit the ground running on the first day. A thorough onboarding process will help them set up clear goals and expectations so they can soon work independently and without much oversight.
Myth #7: VAs are for temporary projects only.
Truth: Don’t let this misconception hinder you from deciding to be a VA. While there are many instances where hiring a VA is a short-term solution, it actually depends on the client or business. There are a lot of VAs who are working for long-term projects or are working full-time for a company, which gives them an opportunity to maximize their potential and have healthy relationships with their clients.