Blog Post

Watch Out, The Virtual Assistants Are Coming!

Clare Runham • Aug 30, 2019

I haven’t measured the response precisely, but I’d estimate that, having introduced myself as a Virtual Assistant, about 1 in 5 ask me if that means I’m some kind of robot.

Whilst I may wish in that moment I was Virtually There, I do reassure them I am as much a robot as the one shown earlier in the year on Russian state television.

Is Skynet really coming?

Whilst we may be safe from the robots for now, it seems that ‘Virtual Assistants’ are moving in on things. Internet giants such as Google and Facebook have launched experiments, using Artificial Intelligence to provide true virtual assistance.

From the few examples out there, it’s genuinely impressive. You can watch Google’s Duplex at work yourself , which can book a restaurant or haircut for you.

However, as the AI tools are finding out, we humans are complicated beasts. Despite firms spending years on research, as well as millions of dollars, AI is still struggling with the nuances of how we tick. Besides, an automatic phone call is great, but would you trust a computer to choose the right restaurant to impress a first date, or best client?

So there are holes to be picked. A high profile example in October was when Amazon had to close down their “sexist” recruitment AI tool designed to pick the best candidates, but ended up only choosing men.

Amazon aren’t alone, with Facebook shutting down ‘M’ earlier this year; their text-based Virtual Assistant which used humans to train their AI system seemingly proved to be too much work to roll-out.

Are we the problem?

Undoubtedly, technology still has a way to go, but it’s the building of trust in allowing computers to handle our personal data and make decisions on our behalf which will always prove the biggest hurdle.

Here I find some compassion for my artificial rivals. I too face hurdles – how can I be trusted to work efficiently if I can’t be checked up on? Could I be working slower, just so I can charge more?

For small business owners, their business is their baby, and they have every right to keep tabs. That’s just as long as they don’t allow that oversight to turn into an obsession, which stops businesses from growing.

As a business owner myself, it’s all too easy to get stuck in the hamster wheel and forget there’s a wider world out there. We’re currently in uncertain times, with Brexit causing people to tighten their belts. Just take a look at the restaurant sector , where insolvency has jumped up by a quarter during 2018.

Whilst there are multiple reasons for this, it’s interesting to note how the likes of Deliveroo and Uber Eats are growing, leaving restaurants to lose margin whilst paying for wages and expensive rent in the best locations.

This is of course a threat for any business. If sales are lower than expected, it’s not easy to simply downsize your workforce and offices. Moreover, that could be a mistake if – in 3 months time – you find you need those staff or that space back.

Arise, Virtual Assistants

This is the scenario where Virtual Assistants provide value: they’re real people, providing real service, but without the overheads or headache of employment. Just as flexible hours and working from home are useful ways of maximising resources, so is the use of a Virtual Assistant.

Google’s Duplex software may be capable of doing a Google search for you, attempting to find a recommended restaurant, but does it know your friend needs a vegan menu? Would it think to ask for a bigger table, so you can spread out some paperwork? It wouldn’t, but in fairness, neither would a rubbish admin assistant on minimum wage.

The advantage of being a Virtual Assistant is personal assistant duties are what I do all day, every day – I’ve gotten pretty good at it! From getting quotes for insurance, to planning an awards night, I know the right shortcuts and the right people to get the job done better, and faster. There’s nothing virtual about that!

I run Miss MPS , a team of Virtual Assistants based in East Malling in Kent, helping growing businesses in Kent and beyond. Connect with me on LinkedIn by visiting my profile.


02 Jun, 2023
In today's fast-paced and demanding work environment, leaving the office early may seem like a distant dream for many. But fear not, because we hold the secret to achieving this elusive goal: the exceptional powers of a Virtual Assistant (VA)! With our efficiency, resourcefulness, and knack for managing tasks, we can be your ultimate ally in reclaiming your precious time and bidding farewell to the office earlier than ever before. So, sit back, relax, and let's explore how as a VA we can work our magic and help you achieve your much-deserved early departure. 1. Master of Organization: Our organisational skills are akin to those of a superhero. We possess the extraordinary ability to streamline your workload, ensuring maximum efficiency and minimal time wastage. By entrusting us with tasks such as scheduling, calendar management, and email prioritisation, you can rest assured that your day will be optimised to its fullest potential. With our meticulous planning, we will help you stay on top of your responsibilities and complete tasks well ahead of schedule, giving you the freedom to leave the office early with a sense of accomplishment. 2. Defending the Fortress: Picture this: You're about to call it a day when your phone starts ringing incessantly, demanding your attention for urgent matters. Fear not! Your trusty VA has got your back. You could have the ability to hand over all calls, screen emails, and handle enquiries, ensuring that only the most crucial and time-sensitive matters reach your ears. With our impeccable judgment and communication skills, we can efficiently handle routine queries, saving you from being tied down by distractions and allowing you to exit the office in triumph. 3. Supercharging Productivity: A VA is a productivity powerhouse. Armed with an array of digital tools and automation techniques, we can work wonders in enhancing your output. From research and data analysis to social media management and account handling, we can tackle tasks that would otherwise devour your precious time. With our assistance, you can harness the full potential of your working hours, completing assignments swiftly and efficiently. The result? Early departures become your new reality. In the age of Virtual Assistants, leaving the office early has transitioned from a mere aspiration to an achievable reality. By harnessing the organisational prowess, gatekeeping finesse, productivity superpowers, and task delegation mastery of a VA, you can bid farewell to your desk earlier than ever before. So, embrace the modern world of remote assistance, unleash the power of a VA, and enjoy the sweet taste of freedom as you leave the office early, knowing that your productivity has never been higher. It's time to make early departures your new office norm! Call us today on 01732 757 870 and leave the office early next Friday!
23 May, 2023
As a virtual assistant, I've often thought about how my job is a lot like a glass of wine. Yes, you read that right – a glass of wine! I know it sounds a little strange, but bear with me and I'll explain. First of all, both virtual assistants and wine come in many different varieties. Just like there are different types of wine – red, white, rosé, sparkling – there are also different types of virtual assistants. Some are designed for basic tasks like scheduling appointments, while others can handle more complex tasks like managing your entire email inbox and bookkeeping. Secondly, both virtual assistants and wine can help you relax and unwind. After a long day of work, there's nothing like pouring yourself a glass of wine and letting your stress melt away. Similarly, a virtual assistant can take care of all the little tasks that add up and cause stress in your daily life. Need to schedule a meeting? Done. Need to book accommodation for a business trip? Consider it taken care of. As well as this when you buy a bottle of wine from a reputable winery, you know that you're getting a high-quality product that will taste great. Similarly, when you choose a well-known virtual assistant, you can trust that it will perform the tasks you ask of it reliably and accurately. Finally, both virtual assistants and wine can be a little unpredictable. You never know exactly what you're going to get – sometimes the wine might be too sweet, or the virtual assistant might make a bigger difference to your life than you had imagined. But just like you grow to love the unique qualities of different types of wine, you will also grow to love everything about your virtual assistant. So there you have it – virtual assistants and wine may seem like an unlikely pairing, but they actually have more in common than you might think! Whether you prefer a glass of red or a virtual assistant that can handle all your scheduling needs, both can help make your life a little easier (and maybe a little more fun). Why not give us a call and start to de-stress your life today?
19 May, 2023
Virtual assistants have become increasingly popular in recent years as more businesses and individuals are realizing the benefits of having a remote assistant. However, there are still some common misconceptions about virtual assistants that prevent people from hiring them. In this blog, we’ll explore these misconceptions and explain why you should consider hiring a virtual assistant for your business or personal needs. Misconception 1: Virtual assistants are too expensive. One of the most common misconceptions about virtual assistants is that they are too expensive. While it’s true that hiring a full-time virtual assistant can be costly, there are plenty of options for those on a budget. For example, you can hire a virtual assistant on a part-time basis or for a specific project. Additionally, virtual assistants are often more affordable than hiring an in-person assistant because you don’t have to worry about providing them with office space, equipment, sick and holiday pay. Misconception 2: Virtual assistants are not reliable. Another common misconception about virtual assistants is that they are not reliable. Some people worry that because they are not working in the same office as their assistant, they won’t be able to monitor their work. However, virtual assistants are just as reliable as in-person assistants. In fact, many virtual assistants have a strong work ethic and are highly motivated because they want to maintain a good reputation with their clients. Misconception 3: Virtual assistants are not skilled. Some people assume that virtual assistants are not skilled because they do everything. However, virtual assistants are often highly skilled professionals who specialize in a variety of areas. For example, you can hire a virtual assistant who is a social media expert, a copywriter, or a graphic designer. You can also find virtual assistants who specialize in more administrative tasks like scheduling, email management, and bookkeeping. Misconception 4: Virtual assistants are not able to communicate effectively. One of the biggest concerns people have when hiring a virtual assistant is that they won’t be able to communicate effectively. However, virtual assistants are often excellent communicators who can adapt to their client’s communication preferences. Many virtual assistants use tools like email, chat, video conferencing, CRM systems and project management software to stay in touch with their clients. Misconception 5: Virtual assistants are only for businesses. While virtual assistants are often hired by businesses, they can also be a great asset for individuals. For example, if you’re a busy professional who needs help managing your personal life, a virtual assistant can help with tasks like scheduling appointments, booking travel, and managing your inbox. Virtual assistants can also help with personal projects like planning a party or researching a vacation destination. So why you should hire a virtual assistant? Now that we’ve debunked some of the common misconceptions about virtual assistants, let’s talk about why you should consider hiring one. Here are some of the benefits of working with a virtual assistant: • Increased productivity: By outsourcing tasks to a virtual assistant, you can focus on the tasks that are most important to you. • Cost savings: As we mentioned earlier, virtual assistants are often more affordable than in-person assistants. • Flexibility: Virtual assistants can work on a part-time basis or for a specific project, which gives you more flexibility. • Access to specialised skills: Virtual assistants often have specialised skills that can help you to complete tasks more effectively. • Improved work-life balance: By delegating tasks to a virtual assistant, you can improve your work-life balance. Virtual assistants are skilled professionals who can help you increase productivity, save money, and improve your work-life balance. What are you waiting for, get in touch today to find out how we can help you with your business or personal needs.
More posts
Share by: