Over on Danielle’s blog, The Gritty Virtual Assistant, there is an interesting discussion going on about the term “Virtual Assistant.” Danielle is asking whether or not the term Virtual Assistant still suits us. She brings ups some great points and I encourage you to read what she wrote.
Truth be told, I never gave the term much thought. At the time I started my business it seemed a natural progression from what I was doing in the corporate world. However, over the last few years, I’ve seen the term Virtual Assistant grossly misunderstood and misused, including by those in the Virtual Assistant industry.
Danielle blames the term “Virtual Assistant” itself, and says this:
“The term “Virtual Assistant” itself is at the root of many of the wrong perceptions and misunderstandings we are constantly having to disabuse clients of. Because the term is vague and ambiguous, it creates confusion and leaves it open to anyone’s interpretation. And because it wasn’t well thought out and the branding not managed well or at all, it’s been coopted by anyone and everyone who thinks doing anything and everything virtually is Virtual Assistance.”
I heartily agree with this. The term has become quite vague and there is certainly a lot of confusion about what a Virtual Assistant is and does. I am constantly having to educate others who contact me after having been given misguided information about Virtual Assistance.
So the question becomes: “What term would suit our profession?” On her blog, Danielle writes about the terms she does and does not like. Others in the comments offer some good insights and suggestions. It will be interesting to see if and how the term evolves over time. Already some VAs are using alternative terms on their websites and business materials.
As for me, I have been gravitating more and more towards the term “Administrative Expert.” Danielle mentions this in her post. I like it because it better describes what a Virtual Assistant is. A Virtual Assistant is an expert at assisting his/or clients create businesses and lives they love. The fact that the assistance is provided virtually is now inconsequential in today’s techno-society.
What do you think? Take a look at Danielle’s post, and chime in with your thoughts and suggestions. What are your thoughts on the term “Virtual Assistant.?”
Virtual assistant gives the quality services into the corporate world, what matter is they keep the job done and everything is fine.
It is still suitable, for me Virtual Assistant is a Profession not a vocation or some say cheap trick. I value my Profession because I can help other people in terms of their needs and doubts at the same time earning the right amount
That is a good thought changing the terms but the same task, i agree with that it doesn’t matter at some point just as long that this trend will continue to provide jobs and opportunity for every one ……..nice article have a nice day..
Thank you for your thoughts and comments everyone!