Virtual workers, but real work.
It’s funny but we talk about virtual workers, virtual systems, virtual this and that but what do we mean? According to my dictionary the word virtual means: almost or nearly as described, but not completely or according to strict definition. But whose “strict” definition? The use of the word ” virtual” at present is being derived from virtual reality: “a simulacrum environment, make believe”.
So when we talk about a virtual secretary, what we actually mean is that she/he is a remote secretary, not a virtual one. She still works and carries out the functions of a secretary. She exists and the work she does exists. It has value to the person who employees the virtual worker. I may be considered a virtual worker. I am independent, not part of my clients direct business structure. I appear when needed and vanish when not.
But does that make a virtual worker a less valued part of a business or a team? I hope not and to be honest, if a client views me that way then we need to think about our relationship. As I said, there is nothing virtual about the results I or any other “virtual worker” should provide.
Not long ago the term was teleworkers. But do the people who need to use such resources really understand what it is they need or are getting? Do the words get in the way? When hiring a virtual worker a good question to ask would be: would I hire them as part of my company? Most businesses use a virtual worker and always have: the accountant. They are integral and important to the very running of your company. You sourced them through other business owners or other recommendations. I imagine that you did not pick up the big yellow book and called a few at random. So, would you do that with a virtual assistant or project manager?
Just as you cannot afford to keep an accountant full- time you don’t need to keep any other virtual worker full- time. As a business owner you get to tap into great skill sets as and when you need them. These people tend to hone their skills in order to provide services to multiple clients. I am not saying you should replace all your staff for virtual staff, that would make no sense. But there are tasks you need people to do which are not part of the day to day running of your business. Just like your accountant, they are people you should build a good, solid and valued long term relationship with. Become a preferred customer of theirs and show them their value by offering referrals; in return you make them part of your team.
As I said in a past post, build a good team around you and it will help you through the tough times. Include some skilled outsiders in that team and increase the odds in your favour.
If you are thinking of hiring a virtual assistant I suggest reading this article on allbizanswers by Tracy Collins on selecting and engaging.
Take care
andrewnim
