"Hey Siri, what is a virtual assistant?"

If you look up the term 'Virtual Assistant' you will likely get definitions such as:
 
"A highly-skilled independent professional who remotely provides administrative, technical and/or creative business support."
"An independent contractor who provides professional services from a remote location."
"Self-employed person providing professional administrative, technical or creative assistance to clients remotely from a home office."

You might also get definitions that include references to artificial intelligence (AI).  In the context of AI, a virtual assistant is an application program that understands voice commands and can complete basic tasks.  I have even seen definitions that claim these AI virtual assistants can perform tasks historically done by personal assistants or secretaries.  Ok, they can look up a phone number, schedule a meeting and you can dictate an email to them.  But they are probably only saving you a few minutes and they certainly don't add value to your business.

​I think the definitions of 'virtual assistant' quoted above start to explain what a (human) Virtual Assistant is.  As a Virtual Assistant, I will work on a defined task, project or part of your business, giving you the time to focus on the important areas of your business that only you can do.  'Professional' appears in each definition above and this is really important.  As a Virtual Assistant, I run my own business and have a wealth of knowledge, experience and contacts.  My business reputation is dependent on always providing great service.  I will get to know your business, I will undertake your work with the same pride and diligence I do with my own and I will become a champion for the product or service you offer.

So, if you want to know what the weather will be like tomorrow, ask Siri.  If you want a professional who will efficiently handle a range of tasks for your business, adding value and freeing up your time, ask a Virtual Assistant.