Virtual Assistants vs. Other Options

Employee.  If you need someone who's always available to you immediately; if you have the space and equipment; time to manage an employee; and money to pay a salary and benefits; then hiring an in-house assistant might make sense for you.  Part of the benefit of having a VA is that you haven't hired anyone.  A VA is a business owner and a professional.  You get a partner, not an employee.  The VA's decision to work with you will be based on being interested in your work and a desire to be your partner for success, not because it's "a job".

Temps and Secretarial Services.  These are great for quick projects or piece work.  If you need the most basic office support, then a secretarial service might be the answer for you.  Unfortunately, the people who work there don't know you, your business, or your customers.  Their short time with you, and the fact that they only handle piece work, limits their potential to learn about your needs.  It takes a lot of work, up front, to coach and explain before giving them the work, so that they know what you want.

Virtual Assistants.  A VA will learn you and your business.  Over time, a VA can speak for you and write in your voice.  Often, because he or she knows you, the VA can listen to you speak just a few words about what you want done, and make it happen.  The more the VA knows about your needs, the less time it will take him or her to do your work.   Which do you feel is the best value?