Running a business means wearing many hats—but that doesn’t mean you should wear them all. In 2025, over 27 million U.S. small businesses are run by a single owner with no employees (U.S. Census Bureau). It’s no surprise then that virtual assistants (VAs) have become one of the most in-demand hires for entrepreneurs looking to scale efficiently. This guide breaks down the most frequently asked questions about hiring a VA, backed by real-world data and insights that matter.
- What is a virtual assistant and what do they do?
A virtual assistant is a remote professional who provides support services to businesses or entrepreneurs. Tasks include administrative work, inbox and calendar management, customer support, bookkeeping, social media management, data entry, market research, and more.
According to a report by Grand View Research, the global virtual assistant market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 26.3% from 2022 to 2030—indicating rising demand and use cases. - How much does it cost to hire a virtual assistant in 2025?
In 2025, VA rates vary based on location, experience, and specialization. Here’s a general breakdown:
• Philippines/Latin America: $6–$10/hour for high-quality, English-fluent VAs
• Eastern Europe: $10–$20/hour
• U.S.-based VAs: $25–50+/hour
Many companies offer fixed monthly rates or packages based on hours. Hiring offshore can save businesses up to 70% on labor costs, according to Outsource Accelerator. - Where do I find the best virtual assistants?
Top sources include:
• Headhunting agencies like Remote Leverage, offering pre-vetted talent
• Freelance marketplaces like Upwork or Fiverr
• Referrals from trusted peers in your industry
• Freelance platforms saw a 22% year-over-year increase in demand for VAs in 2024 alone (Upwork Trends Report). - How do I know if a VA is reliable and qualified?
Look for VAs who:
• Have verified work history and references
• Pass skills assessments or trial tasks
• Communicate clearly and proactively
• Have strong internet connection and tech setup
Agencies report that only 1–5% of applicants make it through the vetting process—making quality sourcing essential. - What are the risks of hiring a VA and how can I mitigate them?
Common risks include communication delays, lack of accountability, and data security issues.
To mitigate:
• Use secure tools (e.g., LastPass, Slack, project management software)
• Set clear KPIs, SOPs, and weekly check-ins
• Work with trusted agencies offering replacements and support
A recent survey by Clutch found that 73% of businesses using VAs saw a measurable improvement in productivity within 3 months. - Do I need a full-time VA or part-time help?
That depends on your needs. Many business owners start with part-time (10-20 hours/week) and scale up. According to Remote Work Index data, over 60% of VA engagements begin part-time before evolving into long-term roles. - Is hiring a VA better than hiring in-house?
For many roles, yes. Hiring a VA:
• Costs less (save up to 70%)
• Offers flexibility (no office space or benefits required)
• Allows access to global talent pools
However, for roles requiring on-site presence or legal compliance, in-house may be better. Deloitte reports that cost-saving and talent access are the top two reasons companies outsource. - What tasks should I delegate to a virtual assistant first?
Start with time-consuming but low-leverage tasks:
• Calendar & inbox management
• Data entry
• Customer support
• Research
• Social media scheduling
According to HubSpot, administrative tasks can take up to 40% of a small business owner’s time. Delegating frees up hours for high-value work. - Can virtual assistants work across time zones?
Yes. Many VAs from the Philippines and Latin America are willing to work U.S. hours. Discuss availability during hiring and agree on overlaps for meetings. In fact, 85% of global VAs work with clients outside their home country, according to a survey by Time Doctor. - How do I train my virtual assistant?
• Use screen recordings (e.g., Loom)
• Create SOPs (standard operating procedures)
• Have onboarding checklists
• Use project tools (e.g., Trello, ClickUp) to assign and track tasks
Some agencies provide built-in onboarding materials to make this even easier. Businesses that invest in VA training report 30–50% higher task accuracy and retention rates.
Conclusion
Hiring a virtual assistant in 2025 is more than just a shortcut—it’s a strategic move backed by data. By understanding the most frequently asked questions and aligning them with your business goals, you can tap into world-class talent without breaking the bank. Ready to skip the guesswork? Visit RemoteLeverage.com to get matched with a vetted VA who fits your needs.
