The Journal

Virtual Assistants Post-Covid:

Challenges and Opportunities Embraced

The world has changed rapidly post-Covid. I did consider that it may be time to stop talking ‘post-Covid’, but the effects of those two short years evidently remain extremely long-reaching, and alongside it, the Virtual Assistant industry has had to adapt, grow, and continue to provide the essential support services that business owners both want and need.

Navigating the evolution of this essential industry requires the clear vision of go-getting power houses, simply referred to in the business world as, “My VA”. They must skilfully and constantly adapt their flexible and transferrable abilities to their newly changed environments, with many moving from a lifetime in the office to specifically converted spaces in and around their home.

There have been some key challenges and opportunities facing the VA business in the 2020s, and they have been overcome with innovation, collaboration, resilience and good humour.

Some of the main challenges faced include:

• Attracting and retaining a diverse and sustained client base outside of the traditional office setting.

        How? By offering maintained knowledge with continuous

        CPD, showcasing a diverse professional background and

        tailored training and experiences.

• Adapting to the shifting preferences and expectations of clients and customers.

        How? By broadening the range of services to cater to

        differing client needs, including content creation and social

        media support and management.

• Meeting the vastly increasing demand for the quality, affordability, and sustainability of our services.

        How? By focusing on adding value through cost savings,

        increased efficiency and unique insights.

• Leveraging the potential for automation, the use of artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.

        How? By introducing and using tools such as CRM systems,

        project management software, cloud computing, and

        communication platforms to streamline operations.

More to come →

Some of the main opportunities embraced include:

• Developing new business services and procedures that are aligned with emerging trends and digital technological opportunities.

        With constant research, networking, and engagement we can identify

        and stay informed of emerging trends within the industry, adopting

        new techniques or practices as necessary.

• Collaborating with other VAs, PAs and support staff in the industry and across sectors to combining efforts or resources, achieving great practice and partnerships.

        With a culture of collaboration and engagement shared innovation

        and creativity are celebrated and rewarded throughout the industry.

• Innovating continuously to improve the efficiency and quality of services offered, proving high value for clients by solving their problems and fulfilling their needs.

        With the incorporation of digital tools and platforms to enhance

        services, and continuous monitoring of performance, adjustments can

        be made to remain aligned with our clients’ needs.

• Managing the risks and uncertainties of national markets, regulations, and politics which heavily influence our work and business structure.

        With continuous professional development in privacy laws and data

        security we ensure compliance with UK laws and regulations, while

        also considering cultural sensitivity and the ethical use of AI, always

        showcasing our commitment to professionalism throughout.

• Building a resilient and agile business that can respond to change and uncertainty within our industry sector.

        With the development of a strong Strategic Plan, VA businesses can

        create a roadmap that outlines goals, the target market, and steps

        needed to develop and implement new services, with realistic

        timelines, measurable resources, and achievable successes.

The protagonists within the VA industry actively and thoughtfully foster a culture of inclusion, respect, and belonging, inspiring and supporting many others who might at some time be hesitant to step forward. We are proactive in providing equal opportunities for career development, recognition, and reward for all peers, attracting and retaining a diverse and skilled workforce that reflects the society and industries that VAs work alongside. This diverse workforce can promote vastly different perspectives, experiences, skills, and ideas that evidently enhances creativity, innovation, and problem-solving, resulting in the ultimate goal for every individual within business, client satisfaction.