Every moment spent on tasks that could be delegated, takes away from your ability to focus on what truly matters – growing your business and maximising your expertise. That’s where Virtual Assistants come into play. They are a lifeline to entrepreneurs and professionals looking to streamline their workload and reclaim their time. But of course, the most asked question is : “How much does it cost to work with a Virtual Assistant?”.
Lets take a look at the rates and the factors that influence the costs.
Rates of a UK based Virtual Assistant
When it comes to working with a Virtual Assistant in the UK, the rates typically kick off at around £30 per hour. However, it is crucial to understand that these rates can vary based on several factors, including specific tasks you need assistance with, the VA’s experience in handling those tasks, and the scope and duration of your projects.
Task specific pricing
One of the key determinants of VA rates is the nature of the tasks you require assistance with. Simple administrative tasks may be priced differently than specialised services like digital marketing, social media management and graphic design. VA’s often tailor their rates to the complexity and skill level required for each task.
Project size and duration
The scope and duration of your projects can also influence VA rates. Longer-term commitments or larger scale projects may lead to more favourable pricing arrangements. It’s essential to discuss these aspects upfront to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
The business owners perspective
It’s worth noting that UK-based Virtual Assistants are entrepreneurs in their own right. They have the freedom to set their own rates based on their expertise and the value they provide. While you won’t be responsible for their taxes, national insurance or pension costs, keep in mind that they do have their own overhead expenses to cover. These can include power, equipment, software subscription and professional development.
Calculate your hourly rate
Before you begin your search for a VA, it’s wise to evaluate your own hourly rate. Calculate how much it costs for you to perform the tasks you’re looking to outsource. You might be surprised to find that your hourly rate is significantly higher than what a VA would quote for the same work.
In essence, if a VA’s rate is lower than your own hourly rate, it’s a clear indicator that outsourcing is a cost-effective choice. By doing so, you free up your valuable time to focus on tasks that require your specialised expertise and attention.
The temptation of low-cost VA’s: A word of caution
When your start out on your search for a Virtual Assistant, you may encounter VA’s from outside the UK, often countries like the Philippines, offering their services at a remarkably low rate. For instance, I know of one UK based company who recently took on an agency, in the Philippines, for as little as £8 per hour, for full social media marketing and management services.
While these offer might seem incredibly enticing, they often come with potential drawbacks and security concerns. Countries like the Philippines do not have the same data protection regulations as the UK, such as GDPR. Entrusting sensitive information to such VA’s could expose your business to security risks and legal complications.
Expertise comes at a price
When you hire a VA, you’re not just hiring someone to help with a few tasks. You’re gaining access to an expert in their field. Think of it the same way you would hiring an Accountant or Business Coach. You’re investing in their years of experience and specialised knowledge.
So, How Much DOES It Cost To Work With A Virtual Assistant?
As with most things, it comes down to a simple equation: Costs Vs Benefit.
When it comes to outsourcing to a Virtual Assistant, take the time to calculate your hourly rate and how much it compares with the average hourly VA rate in the UK. Consider the value of the time you’ll free up by working with a VA.
More often than not, you’ll find that the benefits of working with a VA far outweigh the costs incurred.
Essentially, outsourcing to a Virtual Assistant can be a game changer and something many businesses admit they wish they done sooner.
Is it time you looked at outsourcing and started reaping the benefits?