… and if anyone tells you it is, then run a mile!
Okay, let me just level with you, I have become so frustrated by the number of social media posts I see referring to becoming a virtual assistant as a hobby venture, or a ‘side hustle’. The use of such terminology undermines the dedication, effort and sheer hard work hundreds of people put into growing and establishing their virtual assistant businesses.
In my opinion being a virtual assistant is not, and never can be a ‘side hustle’.
What is a side hustle?
The term ‘side hustle’ is often used to refer to a cheeky little extra income stream, a hobby project or an extra focus that is in addition to your main employment, job or income stream. Let me state clearly that I am not saying there is anything unacceptable or wrong about side hustles, it’s just that being a virtual assistant cannot simply be regarded as a hobby project.
First class service
Most virtual assistants I have had the pleasure of meeting, have dedicated many stressful hours setting up their business. They have marketed and searched for clients. Many virtual assistants may have taken lower paid positions or agency work whilst growing their businesses. Some virtual assistants have been forced to set up on their own due to redundancy or inability to find child friendly hours. Whatever their journey into the world of virtual work, they have one common goal, to provide a first class, quality service for their clients.
Virtual assistants are not just casual freelancers; they are indispensable contributors to businesses and professionals worldwide.
Commitment
Being a virtual assistant requires a higher degree of trust with our clients. As we do work remotely we should be regarded as being transparent, responsive and reliable. Therefore our clients must feel their needs are being met.
Depending upon the situation and role, we are also strategic collaborators. Successful virtual assistants align their work with the overall objectives of the businesses they support. We participate in decision-making processes, offer insights, and contribute to the growth and efficiency of the organisations we work with.
This level of engagement and commitment goes far beyond the typical boundaries of a side hustle.
Highly skilled
Being a virtual assistant demands a diverse skill set that goes beyond basic administrative tasks. From project management and social media marketing to customer relations and data analysis, virtual assistants often wear multiple hats.
This wide-ranging skill set positions them as valuable assets in any professional setting, showcasing that this is more than just a part-time side hustle.
Dedication vs Side Hustle
Virtual assistants play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of businesses. They handle essential tasks, manage workflows, and contribute to overall productivity. Businesses increasingly recognise the critical role virtual assistants play in streamlining operations and freeing up valuable time for core functions. This reinforces the idea that being a virtual assistant is not a side hustle, but demands a long term buy in by both parties, to build a
Being a virtual assistant is a career choice for many of us. We are striving to create a legitimate career path. Side hustles are great for additional income. But for a serious and professional service it’s a legitimate virtual assistant you need.