The Truth About Overpriced, Underperforming VAs

Why You’re Overpaying for Underperforming Virtual Assistants (And How to Fix It)

The VA Problem No One Talks About

Have you ever hired a virtual assistant (VA) only to realize you weren’t getting the return on your investment? At first, they may have started strong. Soon, however, you might find yourself chasing them for updates, correcting mistakes, or stepping back in to “just do it yourself.”

You’re not alone. CEOs, founders, and executives scaling 7-figure businesses often share the same frustrations:

  • “My VA doesn’t take initiative.”

  • “I feel like I’m babysitting instead of leading.”

  • “We keep paying, but I’m still stuck in the weeds.”

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: underperformance isn’t always the VA’s fault. In many cases, it comes from unclear delegation, weak systems, or mismatched personality fit.

The good news is that you don’t have to settle for mediocre results. With the right hiring strategy, proper structure, and ongoing support, your VA can shift from being a simple task-taker to a genuine growth partner.

In this article, we’ll explore:

  • Why businesses overpay for underperforming VAs

  • The most common mistakes in VA hiring and delegation

  • How to hire, train, and empower Filipino Virtual Assistants for real results

  • A case study that proves the transformation is possible

  • Action steps you can take today to scale smarter

Why Businesses Overpay for Underperforming VAs

Hiring a VA should create freedom and leverage. Unfortunately, without the right process, you end up paying more while getting less.

The Hidden Costs of Bad VA Hiring

When businesses hire the wrong VA—or partner with the wrong agency—they often face:

  • High fees for low-value output (paying for hours, not results).

  • Micromanagement overload because tasks lack clarity or systems.

  • Communication breakdowns that lead to mistakes and rework.

  • Burnout for CEOs who end up fixing problems instead of scaling.

As Red Adair once said:

“If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional to do a job, wait until you hire an amateur.”

A so-called “cheap” VA quickly becomes expensive when their lack of fit costs you time, money, and missed opportunities.

The Right Way to Hire a Virtual Assistant

Instead of asking “Who can do the job cheapest?” you should ask “Who can integrate, anticipate, and deliver results?”

At Empowering Virtual Solution (EVS), we use a proven framework for matching, training, and mentoring VAs so they become long-term business assets, not short-term disappointments.

Here are the three pillars of smarter VA hiring:

1. Look Beyond Skills: Test Personality and Attitude

Most agencies match clients with VAs based only on skills. However, skill without alignment is a recipe for failure.

That’s why we focus on:

  • Personality Testing: Using DISC profiling to ensure compatibility.

  • Complementary Pairing:

    • If you’re disorganized → we match you with a structured VA.

    • If you’re highly structured → we pair you with a creative, flexible problem solver.

  • Cultural & Value Fit: Filipino VAs are known for loyalty, resilience, and work ethic. With mentorship and cultural integration, they adapt seamlessly to your leadership style.

The result? Long-term compatibility, reduced turnover, and less micromanaging.

2. Focus on Outcomes, Not Hours

A common mistake CEOs make is measuring a VA’s worth by hours logged instead of results achieved.

Instead, shift the focus to:

  • Clear outcomes: Example → “All client inquiries answered within 24 hours.”

  • Impact tracking: Measure productivity, initiative, and problem-solving ability.

  • Trust: Stop micromanaging and allow your VA to remove bottlenecks.

As Warren Buffett famously said:

“Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.”

At EVS, we train VAs to focus on outcomes and value—not just time spent.

3. Build Systems & SOPs for Success

Even the most capable VA will struggle without structure. To avoid overpaying, businesses must establish:

  • SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures): Step-by-step guides for recurring tasks.

  • Accountability Dashboards: To track progress without constant check-ins.

  • Training Systems: Loom recordings, walkthroughs, and ongoing mentorship.

The EVS Difference: Unlike marketplaces like Fiverr or Upwork, we don’t just place talent. We train, mentor, and support VAs continuously so they scale with your business.

Turning Virtual Assistants Into Growth Drivers

Too often, VAs are treated as basic assistants. In reality, a well-trained VA can transform into a growth driver.

They can:

  • Enable business growth: Free you from $20/hour tasks so you can focus on $2,000/hour strategy.

  • Solve problems proactively: Anticipate challenges and create solutions before you even ask.

  • Act as a strategic asset: Improve operations, manage workflows, and support scale.

As Howard Schultz, founder of Starbucks, once said:

“Hire people who are smarter than you, and then get out of their way.”

At EVS, we help CEOs delegate smarter and scale faster.

Case Study: From Frustration to Freedom

One client, a 7-figure allied health provider, came to us after cycling through three VAs in just one year.

They complained about:

  • Endless approval requests

  • Constant micromanaging

  • Feeling like they were “overpaying for underperformance”

Within 90 days of working with an EVS-trained Filipino VA, everything shifted:

  • Approval requests dropped by 70%.

  • Operations ran independently, no more “CEO as fixer.”

  • The CEO finally took a 3-week holiday without chaos.

This transformation wasn’t just about hiring a VA. It was about hiring the right VA, backed by the right systems and agency support.

The Real Cost of Doing It Wrong

Still unsure? Consider this:

A 2024 survey showed that 63% of 7-figure CEOs still approve most team decisions, costing them more than 10 hours per week. That’s 520 hours a year lost on tasks a VA should handle.

Now think about the opportunity cost:

  • How many new clients could you close in 520 hours?

  • How many strategies could you launch?

  • How much freedom could you gain if your time was leveraged better?

This is why hiring smarter VAs with the right support system isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Action Steps for Business Owners

If you’ve been frustrated with your VA—or burned by a bad hire—here’s how to fix it:

Step 1: Audit Your Systems

  • Do you have clear SOPs and measurable outcomes?

  • If not, start documenting tasks today.

Step 2: Assess Personality Fit

  • Does your VA complement your strengths and weaknesses?

  • Use personality testing (DISC, Enneagram) for balance.

Step 3: Shift Your Mindset

  • Stop thinking in terms of tasks and hours.

  • Start focusing on impact and outcomes.

Step 4: Provide Ongoing Feedback

  • Mix praise with constructive feedback to encourage growth.

  • Communicate consistently to build trust.

Free Resource: Delegate Smarter Today

You don’t need to waste another month overpaying for poor support.

Here’s your next step:

Book a Strategy Call: Let us restructure your business so it runs smoothly without you at every turn
📥 Download the Free Guide: Get our Smart Delegation Starter Kit with actionable steps to reclaim your time
🌐 Explore Our Services: See how Empowering Virtual Solution helps 7-figure CEOs create systems that scale with the help of skilled Filipino Virtual Assistants

Let’s remove the bottlenecks, one system at a time.

You don’t have to accept mediocre support. By hiring smarter, building systems, and focusing on outcomes, you can transform your VA into a true growth partner.

✅ Imagine logging off at 5 pm knowing operations are handled.
✅ Imagine taking a week off without checking Slack or email.
✅ Imagine scaling without burning out.

That’s not a dream, it’s the result of hiring the right VA with the right systems and support.

👉 Don’t just hire a VA. Hire smarter. Structure better. Scale faster.

How Virtual Assistants Help Visionary Leaders Create Space for Growth

How Virtual Assistants Help Visionary Leaders Create Space for Growth

Running a business is not just like walking in the park. The bigger your business gets, the longer your to-do list seems to grow. Do you agree?

For many entrepreneurs and small business owners, the answer to staying sane and keeping things running smoothly is hiring a virtual assistant (VA). But why are so many CEOs opting for virtual assistant services instead of hiring local employees? Let’s dive into what makes them such a game-changer for business support.

Why Consider Virtual Assistant Services Alongside Local Employees?

Hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA) is not about replacing local employees, it’s about complementing your team. A VA is a valuable addition to your workforce, supporting your business with the tasks that take up your time, such as admin, basic marketing, social media management, or content creation. This allows you to focus on the more critical aspects of growing your business and gives you the flexibility to bring on skilled, in-house employees for specialised tasks.

While local employees bring expertise that’s specific to your area or industry, Virtual Assistants offer cost-effective solutions to take on those tasks that may not require someone on-site full-time. The beauty of a VA is the flexibility they provide, whether you need them for part-time support or full-time work, VAs are adaptable to your business’s changing needs. Together, they create a well-rounded team that supports the growth of your business.

The benefits of delegating tasks to a Virtual Assistant

  • Cost-effective: Hiring a VA can save time, without the overhead of office space, and other employee costs.
  • Flexible: You can hire VAs based on your business requirements, whether part-time or full-time, and adjust as your business grows.
  • Global talent: The world is your hiring pool. You can find the perfect match for the exact skills you need, especially VAs from the Philippines.
  • Increased productivity: When you delegate repetitive admin tasks like invoice processing, email marketing, or inventory management, data entry, and etc.., you save time and focus on growing your business.
  • Scalability: As your growing business expands, it’s easy to add more virtual assistant services or increase hours without going through lengthy hiring processes.

How Virtual Assistants help business owners thrive

VAs do more than just handle administrative duties. They go above and beyond. These VAs can step in to handle content creation, social media accounts, digital marketing, and even advanced support like podcast management, and SEO-related writing. With a virtual assistant managing these essential but time-consuming tasks, small business owners and business managers can finally focus on what truly drives their success; growing the business forward with clarity and purpose

Disclaimer: This is a real client story featuring Rose from Absolute Soul Secrets, shared with her full permission.

Rose’s Story: Creating Space for Growth

Take Rose Smith for example. Rose is the founder of Absolute Soul Secrets, a leading business in the Psychic and Astrology industry. She started her journey in 2000 after a series of dreams encouraged her to follow this path. What began in a back bedroom gradually scaled into a global business with around 90 team members, including 10 admin staff and 2 Virtual Assistants.

But before hiring offshore support, Rose was struggling with marketing tasks, SEO, and website maintenance while trying to serve her customers. This left her feeling drained and overwhelmed.

During this time, Rose came across the EVS website. What drew her in was the energy behind it, the feminine vibe and supportive approach stood out and gave her the intuitive push to finally move forward. Pair that with EVS’s psychological testing process, and she felt confident it was the right step to take.

To alleviate the pressure and get her energy back, Rose decided to hire her first VA with Empowering Virtual Solution (EVS).

The first VA: Vern

The first VA, Vern, was tasked with managing marketing, SEO, and website content. Rose started by hiring Vern for part-time work, but after just four weeks, it became clear that Vern was a valuable asset to the business. She quickly upgraded Vern to full-time.

In just the first month, Vern hit the ground running. She set up 12 social media accounts, edited 10 articles, and started to learn SEO techniques. Rose was impressed with Vern’s initiative and eagerness to learn.

“Vern’s desire to succeed is remarkable. Even when mistakes happen, she takes them as learning opportunities and strives to improve,” Rose shared.

Psychological testing: Making the best hiring decisions

Rose’s decision to work with EVS was made easier by the psychological testing process, which ensured that Vern was the right fit for the job.

“When I came across the EVS website, I felt an immediate sense of alignment with the energy behind it. What gave me extra confidence was the psychological testing process, it reassured me that this was the right step. I had looked at VAs about 3 years ago, but at the time all I could think was ‘what if it goes wrong’. The psychological testing really allayed my fears. With my background in counselling, I appreciate the value of these tests and could see how powerful they are in making the right match.” 

As for the support from the EVS team, Rose shared:

“So, I’m not sure if you mean Maria or Lina? Both are very helpful and certainly give me the impression that they want my business to succeed! They get more excited about new things than I do!”

This feedback highlights the level of care and excitement that EVS management and the supervisor bring to the table. Maria and Lina go above and beyond to ensure that not only are the VAs equipped with the right skills, but also that they are supported with enthusiasm and a true passion for their clients’ success.

The Second VA: Christian

As Rose’s business grew, she realised she needed someone who could tackle the tech side of things. In May 2025, she brought on a second VA, Christian, a website developer, to take charge of everything from security to updates.

Christian focused on managing backups, running scans, fixing broken links, and even starting a new website from scratch. He has also been working on creating new website features, such as a Moon phase widget, which enhances the user experience and attracts more traffic.

“He seems to understand exactly what I need,” Rose said. “He’s working on coding website widgets, and the Moon phase widget looks fantastic.” 

Photo captured during Client/VA Handover

How VA services transformed Rose’s business

Thanks to Vern and Christian, Rose has been able to ditch the endless SEO tasks, article writing, and website maintenance that were eating up her time. This has allowed her to spend more time focusing on her core business, helping clients with astrology and psychic readings.

Rose can now expand her business without feeling overwhelmed by the administrative work that once bogged her down. With the help of both VAs, Rose has not only improved the efficiency of her business operations but also opened up new opportunities for growth.

Personal wins: VAs grow, too

During a catch-up with the supervisor, VA Vern shared that she has enrolled in law school to pursue her dream of becoming a lawyer. Maria, the supervisor, relayed this exciting news to Rose during their catch-up, saying:

“On a personal note, Vern mentioned that she’s enrolled in law school to continue her third year of graduate studies. The good news is that it won’t interfere with her daily shift, as her classes are only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, starting at 8pm BNE time. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work with you while pursuing her studies. It’s a huge benefit for her, and she’s genuinely thankful!”

Rose responded with:

“Oh, that’s great news, Maria! I’m glad Vern feels well enough to continue her studies.”

Vern has also contributed creatively to Absolute Soul Secrets, including designing the Retrograde Survival Guide 2025, a resource that showcases both her initiative and her growing skills.

On top of that, Christian has also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with Rose and EVS. He recently received his pay and is incredibly thankful. Christian shared that he’s managed to buy and install a new air conditioner for his room to help beat the summer heat in the Philippines. 😅

Testimonial from Rose for Christian

“I have him now doing some research on a new business idea, he’s coding website widgets for me… he actually seems quite clever and the interface for the Moon phase widget he made looks great. So I’m hopeful he will work out long term. I want to ensure we can work together and get lots of stuff done… I have a million ideas! Lol”

Celebrating Rose’s Success

In addition to scaling her team and freeing up her time with the support of Vern and Christian, Rose was also recognised at the 2025 Level Up Business Conference, where she won the award for Best Business Culture. This achievement highlights not only her dedication to her clients and team but also the thriving environment she has built at Absolute Soul Secrets.

This Video was taken during the 2025 Level Up Business Confence

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Level Up Business Conference

Stories like Rose’s are exactly why the Level Up Business Conference exists, to celebrate visionary leaders and give business owners the strategies, tools, and support to keep expanding.

If you’re ready to create more freedom in your business and take your team to the next level, don’t miss the upcoming 2026 Level Up Business Conference happening on 14–15 May 2026.

Learn more and secure your spot here: 2026 Level Up Business Conference.

Rose’s Reflections on Her Journey

When asked in a Facebook Live interview with Francesca Moi about her business journey, Rose shared:

  • How did the decision to work with an offshore team influence your business strategy and contribute to overcoming early challenges?
    “Honestly… I had been thinking about using an agency for a few years, but I couldn’t find the right one to give me the spiritual push to go ahead. It was a bit of an intuitive leap to do it but when I finally found the EVS website, I finally really felt clear about going ahead. In the beginning I was juggling lots of things myself and it was draining my energy. Vern my VA has been taking care of social media and doing a big thing for us — rewriting articles on our website. This is very important as far as ranking on Google is concerned. Articles must be ‘fresh’ not more than 15 years old like some of mine were! Bringing in support meant I could breathe again and focus on the deeper, creative, intuitive parts of my work — the stuff only I can do. Having a team, even across time zones, gave structure to the chaos. It helped me get more visible, more organised, and more aligned with how I actually want to run my business. I now have my second VA Christian, who is doing website work as well.”
  • In what ways has having an offshore staff transformed your work-life balance, allowing you to focus more on strategic leadership?
    “Still working on my work life balance – but I see definite progress now, whereas I didn’t before… it was all too overwhelming.”
  • Looking back on your entrepreneurial journey, how do you see the partnership with your offshore team playing a pivotal role in your ongoing success?
    “I see the role of VAs in my business as being very necessary in order to accomplish tasks that always used to be on the backburner. It’s bad feng shui, quite frankly, to have lists of things that don’t ever get ticked off as done. Whilst there’s still tons of work to do… I am gradually training my VAs to take over tasks entirely. It’s a truly wonderful feeling to get stuff done… Imagine articles from 2013 not being indexed by Google because they’re just too old and now they’ve been redone and republished. Now people are actually clicking on them bringing more website traffic! A big thank you to Vern, Christian and EVS!”

Rose’s story shows how hiring skilled Filipino VAs through EVS has not only transformed her business but also given her the freedom to focus on the parts of her work that matter most, all while her VAs grow personally and professionally.

Conclusion: A win-win for growth

The story of Rose and her VAs shows that virtual assistant services aren’t just about getting help with tasks, they’re about creating space for mutual growth.

With Vern managing social media, refreshing content, and learning SEO, and Christian supporting with tech and creative website projects, Rose has been able to free up her time to focus on the deeper, intuitive work that fuels Absolute Soul Secrets. At the same time, both VAs have achieved personal milestones –  Vern advancing her law studies and Christian improving his living conditions, showing that this partnership is about growth on both sides.

On top of these wins, Rose’s leadership was recognised at the 2025 Level Up Business Conference, where Absolute Soul Secrets received the award for Best Business Culture. This honour highlights the thriving, supportive environment she has built for both her clients and her team.

Rose’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, business owners can expand with clarity, build stronger teams, and still have the freedom to focus on what matters most.

Want to see how a VA can support your business? Get started today!

Book your free consultation today and connect with a virtual assistant who can match your needs and help you grow.

                      Explore our services           |              See FAQs

How 7-Figure CEOs Break Free from Bottlenecks

Growth Killing Bottlenecks: 5 Critical Fixes You Must Apply

Still running your business on your shoulders, even with a team in place?

If your business cannot run without you, it is not truly running; it is waiting. This article is for 7-figure CEOs ready to break free from bottlenecks and reclaim their time. You might be:

• Still handling $20 tasks
• Always the final approval before anything moves forward
• Constantly stepping in to fix problems

If your team struggles to operate without you, it is time to examine where your time is going and why your business is overly dependent on you.

You are the Visionary… But You are Still the Safety Net

You are the big-picture thinker. The strategist. The person who sets the vision and drives the company forward.

And yet, here you are:

  • Responding to Slack messages at all hours
  • Approving client proposals, graphics, and invoices
  • Checking every email before it is sent

You feel like you cannot step away because the business will not move without you. The result?
You are overwhelmed, exhausted, and spending your energy on operations instead of growth.

Here is the truth: you do not need more hours in the day. You need better structure, better systems, and the right people in the right roles — including a trusted Filipino Virtual Assistant who can free up your time and keep operations moving without your constant oversight.

The CEO Bottleneck Checklist

Say “yes” to three or more of these and you are likely the bottleneck:

  • Your team waits for your approval before taking action
  • You check every client email or deliverable before it goes out
  • You handle tasks worth less than $50 per hour, such as scheduling, editing, and posting content
  • You get pulled into problems your team should be solving
  • You fear a week off would cause chaos

If this feels familiar, you are not alone and you are not stuck.

From Micromanager to Scalable CEO

Years ago, I was exactly where you are now. I built a business from $120 to $1.5 million, but I was doing everything myself. Every message, every approval, every process came back to me. Growth slowed and I was exhausted.

Everything changed when I stopped being the fixer and started leading. I restructured my team, built clear delegation systems, and trusted my Filipino Virtual Assistants and team leads to take ownership. That was when my business stopped relying on me for every move and started to grow faster.

At Empowering Virtual Solution, we go beyond simply hiring a VA. We train, mentor, and match skilled Filipino Virtual Assistants to your exact needs. Our clients do not just hire support. They build capacity, confidence, and resilience across their entire team. This ensures you get consistent, high-quality output from a VA who fully understands your business goals.

Delegation is Not a Luxury, It is a Leadership Skill

As Richard Branson said:
“You do not grow a business by doing everything yourself. You grow by empowering others to take on the work that frees you to think strategically.”

When you shift from thinking “only I can do this” to “who can take this on”, you begin to unlock true leverage in your business.

Step 1: Identify What Only You Can Do

List the top strategic actions only you can handle. Examples include vision setting, big client deals, financial oversight, and brand direction.

Step 2: Delegate the Rest

Systematise or hand over everything else. This could include:

  • Inbox and calendar management
  • Social media scheduling
  • Client onboarding
  • Reporting and analytics

A Filipino Virtual Assistant can handle these tasks with precision, freeing you to focus on leadership. Ensure your team is clear on roles, trained with SOPs, and empowered to make decisions.

Step 3: Let Go Without Losing Control

Trust your systems, not just your people. Well-documented workflows and clear approval points allow you to lead without micromanaging.

Proof It Works

One of our clients, a 7-figure allied health provider, reduced their approval requests by 70 percent and took a 3-week holiday for the first time in 4 years. Their team, supported by one of our trained Filipino Virtual Assistants, now runs day-to-day operations without the CEO needing to be involved in every decision.

A 2024 survey showed that 63 percent of 7-figure CEOs still approve most team decisions. This costs them over 10 hours per week that could be spent on high-value strategy and growth.

The Real Win: Reclaiming Time and Scaling Smarter

Imagine:

  • Taking a full week off without worrying
  • Seeing your team solve problems independently
  • Spending your time on strategy, relationships, and CEO-level growth activities

That is what happens when you remove yourself as the CEO bottleneck. You build a business that grows with you, not because of you.

Ready to Break Free From the Bottleneck?

If this blog resonated with you, here is what to do next:
Book a Strategy Call: Let us restructure your business so it runs smoothly without you at every turn
📥 Download the Free Guide: Get our Smart Delegation Starter Kit with actionable steps to reclaim your time
🌐 Explore Our Services: See how Empowering Virtual Solution helps 7-figure CEOs create systems that scale with the help of skilled Filipino Virtual Assistants

Let’s remove the bottlenecks, one system at a time.

The Hidden Gem Behind the Scenes: How a Remote VA Transformed Admin Operations for a Busy Creative Studio

Filipino Virtual Assistant Creative Studio: 5 Inspiring Benefits

Filipino Virtual Assistant Creative Studio solutions are transforming how modern businesses handle design, content, and administrative tasks. By combining world-class Filipino talent with streamlined creative systems, entrepreneurs can scale faster, delegate smarter, and elevate the quality of their brand assets without the high cost of hiring in-house teams.

5 Inspiring Benefits:

  1. Cost-Effective Expertise – Access top-tier creative and administrative skills without the expense of a full-time in-house team.

  2. Scalable Support – Easily expand your team as your business grows, ensuring projects are completed efficiently.

  3. High-Quality Output – Professional-grade design, content, and operational support that enhances your brand image.

  4. Time Freedom – Delegate repetitive or time-consuming tasks, giving you more time to focus on strategy and growth.

  5. Flexible Collaboration – Work with talented Filipino virtual assistants who adapt to your workflows and tools seamlessly.

AIn the signage and printing industry, speed and precision are everything.

From large-scale outdoor signs to vehicle wraps and business branding, the workflow never really stops. There’s always a design to locate, a quote to update, an invoice to chase, or a job in the pipeline. For small creative studios, especially those with lean teams, this fast-paced environment can become overwhelming when admin systems fall behind.

And yet, most business owners in this space wear too many hats.

They manage the creative, the finance, the marketing, the production, and end up sacrificing their time and growth for admin work that could easily be outsourced.

That’s why more creative studios and signage businesses are hiring offshore support. Filipino VAs are helping business owners regain time, reduce overwhelm, and tidy up the backend, without hiring full-time staff.

Because the truth is, your business can only grow if your systems keep up.

In fact, creative business owners spend up to 30% of their week on admin tasks, time that could be spent on clients, strategy, or scaling operations.

 

Why admin support is crucial in the creative and Signage Industry

Studios in the signage and marketing industry often shine in production, but it’s the admin work that holds everything together.

Tasks like:

  • Xero invoicing and reconciliations
  • Chasing overdue invoices
  • Updating internal pricing lists
  • Extracting and renaming design files
  • Naming and filing EasySIGN outputs
  • Writing internal procedures and SOPs

These may seem minor, but when ignored, they pile up and slow the whole team down. That’s why having a reliable Virtual Assistant (VA) dedicated to these admin processes can dramatically change how a business functions behind the scenes.

Disclaimer: This is a real client story featuring Nicole Nicholls from Signasaurus, shared with her full permission.

Nicole’s business: Creative, Productive, and... Buried in Admin

Nicole is the founder of Signasaurus (signasaurus.com.au), a creative signage studio in Australia offering high-quality print, cut and install services. She leads a small but talented team, including a graphic designer and a printing/installation expert. While they focused on delivering client work, Nicole found herself drowning in repetitive tasks.

She wanted to update her marketing and website, but the admin kept getting in the way. From data entry and billing to tidying up job files and chasing invoices, she was stuck in the day-to-day.

That’s when she reached out to Empowering Virtual Solution (EVS) with a simple request:

“I just want someone efficient, competent, and with a can-do attitude.”

Enter Joy: The VA who took admin off Nicole’s plate

Nicole was paired with Joy, a VA with no prior experience in bookkeeping, but with the exact mindset Nicole needed.

From day one, Joy rolled up her sleeves and got to work on:

  • Xero invoicing
  • Data entry and editing bills
  • Extracting and renaming EasySIGN files
  • Tidying up digital folders
  • Chasing overdue accounts
  • Starting documentation of Nicole’s business procedures

Joy didn’t wait for direction. She looked for ways to improve systems, asked smart questions, and even offered to make up for lost time during technical errors (which Nicole never required, but always appreciated).

Her biggest strength? Initiative. She saw what needed to be done and did it.

 

Building trust, one step at a time

Nicole didn’t expect Joy to know it all straight away. She shared one task at a time, just to see how things would go.

VA Joy didn’t try to bluff her way through anything. If she didn’t know how to do something, she said so, but usually came up with a solution or suggestion anyway. That’s what made Nicole feel confident handing over more.

Over time, that trust turned into something more powerful, a sense of partnership.

A lot of what Joy does might not sound exciting, but it’s made a huge difference.

She’s pulled out thousands of design files, renamed and sorted them, cleaned up the folders, and even started writing proper steps for how things get done.

Now the team can find things fast, the invoices are up to date, and Nicole isn’t chasing people all day. Things just… flow better.

Nicole even mentioned:

“You wouldn’t believe how often your file extractions help us complete current jobs. You’ve made it so much easier for the team to find what they need.” 

A communication style that doesn’t feel remote

They start each day with a message. Nicole shares feedback freely. Joy checks in and follows up, without being asked. When there’s a delay or a question, they deal with it fast.

In fact, their EVS supervisor said:

They’ve never had a single issue. Every day starts with a greeting. Every task ends with gratitude. They’re a perfect match.”

Two years strong and still growing

In September 2025, Nicole and Joy will celebrate two years working together.

Joy now manages:

  • 60% admin (extractions, filing, SOP writing)
  • 40% finance (Xero invoicing, bill editing, invoice follow-ups)

And Nicole?

She’s finally got time to focus on higher-value work: marketing plans, growth, and business development.

“Hi Joy, I’m going home now. Thank you for everything that you do. You are a valued member of our team. You wouldn’t believe the number of times you’ve extracted files that have helped us complete current work.”

“We’re good. Nicole responds to my chat ASAP unless she’s tied up. It’s a hands-off setup; she checks and approves my tasks when I’m done or gives feedback if there’s anything I missed.”

Nicole didn’t need five more people in the office. She just needed one person she could trust, someone who could keep things running behind the scenes so she could focus on the work that really matters.

 And now? She’s got that. And it shows.

Want to meet your own Joy?

If you’re running a signage studio, creative agency, or fast-paced production business and need help with the backend, you don’t need to do it alone.

Book a call with Empowering Virtual Solution and get matched with a proactive, reliable, and highly skilled Filipino Virtual Assistant who can help you streamline your admin tasks, regain time, and scale with confidence.

How to Find a Virtual Assistant in the Philippines: Benefits, Costs, and Tips for Your Business

Hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA) can be one of the smartest decisions for your business. If you’re overwhelmed by daily tasks, struggling to focus on growth, or simply aiming for more work-life balance, a VA can help you move forward.

The challenge often lies in choosing the right VA. With countless options out there, why should you consider hiring from the Philippines? And how do you ensure you’re making the best decision?

 

This guide will walk you through the benefits of hiring a Filipino VA, cost expectations, how to find one, and how to build a successful working relationship.

 

Why Hire a Filipino Virtual Assistant?

1. High Level of English Proficiency

Filipinos are among the most fluent English speakers in Asia. This makes them excellent for communication-heavy roles like customer service, email support, and content creation. Their strong comprehension and neutral accent ensure smooth communication with clients and customers.

2. Strong Work Ethic and Reliability

Cultural values in the Philippines emphasize respect, diligence, and loyalty. Filipino VAs are known for their dedication and sincere desire to help your business grow. Once they feel connected to your mission, they often exceed expectations.

3. Cost-Effective Without Compromising Quality

Living costs in the Philippines are significantly lower than in many Western countries. As a result, you can hire highly skilled professionals at a much lower cost. Filipino VAs offer excellent value and return on investment.

Explore our Packages Page to find cost-effective solutions that fit your needs.

4. Adaptable and Skilled in Many Areas

Filipino VAs are versatile. Whether you need admin support, content creation, customer service, or project management, they can handle it. Many are also quick learners and are comfortable using a variety of tools and platforms.

How to Find a Filipino Virtual Assistant

Hiring a VA isn’t just about offloading tasks. It’s about finding a partner who understands your vision. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you hire the right person:

Step 1: Identify Your Needs

Start by listing the tasks you currently handle. Highlight repetitive, time-consuming activities. These are your first candidates for delegation. Tasks like managing emails, booking appointments, or handling social media are common starting points.

Step 2: Explore Reliable Sources

Freelancing platforms such as Upwork or OnlineJobs.ph are common places to find VAs. However, sifting through applicants can be time-consuming.

To save time and ensure quality, consider working with a trusted agency like Empowering Virtual Solution. Our trained and pre-vetted VAs are selected based on your specific business needs.

Step 3: Evaluate Skills and Experience

After shortlisting candidates, review their resumes, portfolios, and client feedback. You can also request a test task to assess their performance.

Step 4: Conduct an Interview

A short video call can help you evaluate communication skills and cultural fit. Ask about their work experience, tools they use, and how they handle deadlines and pressure.

Step 5: Start With a Trial Period

Offering a short trial period helps both you and the VA adjust expectations. This allows you to build a rhythm and provide feedback before committing long-term.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Filipino VA?

VA rates vary depending on task complexity, experience, and whether you hire directly or through an agency. Freelancers usually charge between $5 and $15 USD per hour, while agencies may offer packages at fixed rates.

Visit our Packages Page to discover flexible pricing designed for different business needs.

While cost is a factor, choosing a VA based on price alone may limit your success. Focus on experience, trustworthiness, and value for your business.

How to Build a Successful VA Relationship

Hiring a VA is only the beginning. A successful relationship is built on structure, communication, and collaboration.

Set Clear Expectations

Be upfront about tasks, deadlines, performance goals, and preferred tools. Don’t leave room for assumptions.

Use Communication Tools

Tools like Slack, Trello, Asana, and Zoom can make collaboration easier. Schedule regular check-ins to stay aligned.

Encourage Feedback and Two-Way Communication

Invite your VA to suggest process improvements. Their previous experience might help you optimize your workflows.

Offer Support and Recognition

Acknowledge good work. Celebrate milestones. These gestures boost morale and productivity.

Invest in Growth

Support your VA’s growth by sharing online courses, webinars, or mentoring sessions. A better-skilled VA brings more value to your team.

🎧 Check out our podcast on The Power of Effective Delegation to learn more tips on working with VAs.

Bonus: What Tasks Can a VA Handle?

Not sure what to delegate? We’ve created a free guide to help you.

📥 Download our 100 VA Task Checklist to explore everything a VA can do for your business.

Examples include:

  • Email and calendar management

  • Research and data entry

  • Social media content and engagement

  • Website updates and blog posting

  • Graphic design and branding support

 

By assigning these tasks, you free up valuable time and boost efficiency.

Learn How to Delegate Like a Pro

Want to build systems that help you grow your business without burnout?

🎓 Join our VA Masterclass to discover how successful entrepreneurs use Filipino VAs to scale.

You’ll learn:

  • How to structure delegation effectively

  • Common delegation mistakes to avoid

  • Recommended tools and systems for smooth workflows

 

Delegation isn’t just about doing less. It’s about doing what matters most.

Final Thoughts

A Filipino Virtual Assistant can transform the way you work. It’s not just about handling tasks. It’s about building a reliable support system, saving time, and unlocking growth.

If you’re ready to get started, we’re here to help.

Learn more about us
Browse our packages
Download the 100 VA Task Checklist for instant ideas

You don’t have to do it all. Start delegating, and start growing your business with confidence.

Virtual Assistant for Business: How to Find the Right One

Find the Right Virtual Assistant: Step-by-Step Hiring Guide

How to Find the Right Virtual Assistant for Your Business

Finding the right virtual assistant (VA) is a crucial step in scaling your business efficiently. With the right VA, you can delegate time-consuming tasks, freeing yourself to focus on high-priority activities that drive growth. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to selecting a VA who not only fits your business needs but also aligns with your company culture and goals. Let’s dive into the essential strategies that will help you make the right choice and set your business up for success.

Virtual Assistant for Business: As a 7-figure business owner, you know that delegation is essential for scaling and growth. The reality is, you can’t do it all yourself. From administrative tasks and customer service to social media management and project coordination, there’s only so much one person (or one team) can handle. That’s where a Virtual Assistant (VA) comes in.

But with so many VAs available, how do you find the right one for your business? After all, the success of outsourcing depends on the quality of the assistant you bring on board. Hiring the wrong fit can lead to wasted time, confusion, and frustration.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find the perfect Virtual Assistant for your business needs, ensuring you can delegate effectively and focus on growing your company.

Let me know if this works for you!

Assess your needs

Before you start looking for a virtual assistant for your business, it’s important to understand exactly what tasks you want to delegate. Whether you’re managing an e-commerce business, a team-focused professional service, or scaling an allied health practice, your needs will vary.

Start by identifying the areas where you’re spending the most time. Are you struggling to keep up with emails? Is social media management eating into your time? Do you need someone to assist with client communications, data entry, or project management?

Here are some common tasks business owners delegate to VAs:

  • Administrative Tasks: Email management, scheduling, data entry, and document preparation.

  • Customer Service: Managing inquiries, chat support, and handling customer follow-ups.

  • Marketing: Social media management, content creation, and email marketing campaigns.

  • Project Management: Coordinating team activities, managing timelines, and tracking progress.

By identifying the specific areas where you need help, you can start looking for a VA with the right skill set to meet those needs and find the right virtual assistant for your business.

Know what skills you need

Once you have a clear understanding of the tasks you want to delegate, it’s time to determine the specific skills and expertise your VA needs.

Here are some questions to consider:

  • Do you need someone with strong communication skills?

     

  • Is experience in social media marketing essential?

     

  • Do you require expertise in project management tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com?

     

  • Will your VA need specific knowledge, such as handling medical billing or financial administration?

     

By outlining the required skills, you can narrow down your search to VAs with expertise in those areas. This also helps you avoid wasting time with applicants who don’t have the right skill set.

Personality profiling – The secret to the perfect fit


Virtual Assistant for Business: Finding a VA with the right skills is important, but so is finding one with the right personality. As a 7-figure CEO, your business is unique, and your VA needs to align with your company culture and work style.

That’s why personality profiling is so important when you find the right virtual assistant. At Empowering Virtual Solution (EVS), we use personality profiling to match VAs with businesses. This ensures you not only get someone with the technical skills you need, but also a VA who fits well with your values and the way you work.

For example, you might want a VA who is:

  • Proactive and able to anticipate your needs

  • Detail-oriented, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks

  • Adaptable, able to handle various tasks and respond to changing priorities

  • Collaborative, working well within your existing team

At EVS, we ensure that the personalities of the Filipino virtual assistants we place align with your business’s needs. This leads to a stronger working relationship and better results.

Vet the right VA

A reputable agency, like Empowering Virtual Solution, will handle the heavy lifting for you. We take the time to screen VAs, ensuring they’re fully trained and highly skilled before matching them with clients. This saves you time and guarantees that the VA you hire will be prepared to jump into your business and start delivering results immediately.

Here’s what to look for when vetting a VA:

  • Experience: Has the VA worked with businesses of your size or industry before?

  • Portfolio: Do they have examples of previous work, or references from other business owners?

  • Technical Skills: Are they comfortable with the tools and systems you use in your business?

By partnering with a trusted agency, you’re also eliminating the risk of hiring someone who isn’t a good fit. Agencies like EVS provide ongoing support and training to ensure your VA thrives and adapts to your business.

Start small and build trust

When you first bring on a virtual assistant, it’s important to start small. Delegate low-risk tasks at first and give the VA time to familiarise themselves with your business. This will allow you to evaluate their performance, communication, and ability to handle more responsibility over time as you find the right virtual assistant who can take on increasingly complex tasks.

As you build trust, you can begin delegating more high-value tasks. Your VA will learn your business and develop a deeper understanding of your processes, which will help them take on more complex responsibilities.

Establish clear communication and expectations

Setting the stage for success begins with clear communication. From the start, make sure you define:

  • The tasks you want to delegate

  • How often you’ll check in

  • Your preferred method of communication

  • Any specific business processes you want them to follow

Regular check-ins and feedback sessions ensure that your VA is aligned with your expectations and can adapt to your evolving needs. You should also make sure they have access to the resources they need to succeed,  training materials, software tools, and processes that are integral to your business.

Link to a Productivity Tool or Resource

To streamline your task delegation, tools like Trello or Asana can help you manage and track progress effectively. These project management tools are perfect for business owners looking to work efficiently with a virtual assistant. By creating tasks, setting deadlines, and tracking completion, you can ensure clear communication and smooth workflow between you and your virtual assistant. These tools enhance productivity, keep you organised, and allow you to optimise your business operations, especially when collaborating with an offshore team.

Unlock 100 Time-Saving Tasks for Your Virtual Assistant!

Struggling to figure out what tasks to delegate to your virtual assistant? Our free guide, 100 VA Tasks to Reclaim Your Time, provides a comprehensive list of actionable tasks that will help you offload everything from routine admin to high-value responsibilities. Whether you’re a busy CEO or a growing entrepreneur, this guide helps you optimise your workflow and empower your virtual assistant to take over tasks that drain your time. Download it now to start working smarter, not harder, and scale your business without the burnout.

Final Thoughts: Hiring the right Virtual Assistant
will help you scale

As a 7-figure CEO, finding the right virtual assistant for your business is a crucial step in freeing up your time, boosting efficiency, and scaling your operations effectively. By following these steps, assessing your needs, identifying key skills, using personality profiling, and partnering with a trusted agency like Empowering Virtual Solution (EVS), you can find the right virtual assistant who will become an indispensable part of your team.

When you delegate the right tasks to a skilled VA, you empower yourself to focus on growth, innovation, and the high-level decisions that drive your business forward.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s talk about how we can help you find the right virtual assistant to transform your business.

 

Virtual Assistant for Growth: Why 7-Figure CEOs Need One

Why Filipino Virtual Assistants Are Essential for Business Growth

As a 7-figure CEO, scaling your business while maintaining efficiency and quality can be a challenge. The key to overcoming growth barriers often lies in delegating tasks to the right team members. This is where a Filipino Virtual Assistant comes in, offering a cost-effective, skilled, and efficient solution to help your business thrive.

The hidden barriers to growth for 7-Figure CEOs

Reaching the 7-figure revenue mark is a significant milestone for any business. However, with growth comes its own set of complexities. As your business expands, you may find that certain tasks that were once manageable begin to strain your resources. This can lead to inefficiencies and even burnout if not properly addressed. Without the right support system, businesses risk plateauing or stalling.

At this point, a Filipino Virtual Assistant can make all the difference. By outsourcing administrative, customer service, and marketing tasks, you free up time to focus on high-level activities that drive your business forward. A Filipino VA is an affordable and effective way to scale your operations and reduce the burden on your in-house team.

How Filipino Virtual Assistants Drive Business Growth

1. Cost-Effective Scaling

One of the main advantages of hiring a Filipino Virtual Assistant is the ability to scale your business without breaking the bank. Filipino VAs are known for their strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and ability to handle various tasks, from customer support to content creation. By outsourcing these roles, you can save on the costs of hiring full-time, local employees, while still receiving high-quality support that helps your business grow.

2. Increased Efficiency and Productivity

As your business grows, efficiency becomes more important than ever. Hiring a Filipino Virtual Assistant can help you manage the increase in workload by taking on time-consuming tasks like email management, scheduling, social media oversight, and customer inquiries. This allows you to focus on strategic goals, like expanding product lines or entering new markets.

By outsourcing routine administrative functions to a skilled VA, you can significantly improve overall productivity in your business.

3. 24/7 Operations Without the Overhead

The global nature of business today demands that you provide customer support around the clock. Many Filipino Virtual Assistants work flexible hours, allowing your business to operate during hours that your in-house team cannot cover. This is especially useful for businesses that have international clients or provide customer service across multiple time zones.

With a Filipino Virtual Assistant, you can ensure that your business continues to run smoothly even after hours, providing superior customer service and improving client satisfaction, ultimately driving growth.

4. Focus on Leadership and Growth

For a 7-figure CEO, the primary responsibility is to lead the business, to innovate, strategise, and set the direction for growth. But many CEOs end up bogged down by day-to-day tasks, preventing them from focusing on the bigger picture. When you hire a Filipino Virtual Assistant, you can delegate routine operational tasks, allowing you to step away from the minutiae and focus on long-term strategic leadership.

With a Filipino VA handling your admin tasks, customer service, or marketing efforts, you can shift your focus back to scaling your business, forming partnerships, building your brand, and increasing revenue.

5. Scalability and Flexibility

The beauty of working with Filipino Virtual Assistants is the ability to scale your business quickly and flexibly. As your business grows, your needs will change. Whether you’re launching a new product, handling a seasonal surge in demand, or rolling out a new marketing campaign, Filipino Virtual Assistants provide the flexibility to scale your team on demand.

For example, during a product launch, a business might need temporary help with social media management, customer support, and content creation. Rather than going through a lengthy hiring process, a CEO can quickly hire additional Filipino Virtual Assistants to provide the support needed during this busy period.

This flexibility allows businesses to respond quickly to changes in demand without the hassle of traditional hiring processes, ultimately saving time and resources.

How to Leverage Filipino Virtual Assistants for Business Growth

1. Assess Your Business Needs

Before hiring a Filipino Virtual Assistant, take the time to evaluate where your business needs the most help. Is it in customer service? Marketing? Administrative tasks? Identifying these key areas will help you delegate the right tasks to the right person, ensuring that your business can grow efficiently.

Once you have a clear understanding of where you need help, you can choose the right Filipino Virtual Assistant with the skill set needed to drive your business growth.

2. Partner with a Trusted Agency

Choosing the right Filipino Virtual Assistant can be a challenge. Partnering with a trusted agency, such as Empowering Virtual Solution (EVS), ensures you’re matched with experienced, skilled VAs who are trained to support your business goals. At EVS, we specialise in matching businesses with Filipino VAs who are trained, experienced, and ready to provide the support you need to scale effectively.

3. Start Small and Build Trust

To maximise the effectiveness of your Filipino Virtual Assistant, start by delegating smaller, manageable tasks. As you build trust and confidence in their abilities, you can gradually assign more complex responsibilities. This approach ensures a smooth transition and helps you develop a strong, long-term partnership with your Filipino VA.

4. Provide Ongoing Training and Support

To maintain a successful working relationship with your Filipino Virtual Assistant, it’s important to offer continuous training and feedback. Regular check-ins will ensure that your VA is aligned with your business’s evolving needs and can grow with the company. This ongoing support helps them perform at their best, driving the success of your business.

Final Thoughts

As a 7-figure CEO, you’ve already mastered the art of scaling your business, but to continue breaking through growth barriers, you need the right support system. A Filipino Virtual Assistant provides not only cost-effective solutions but also strategic support that enables you to focus on what matters most, leading your business, fostering innovation, and driving growth.

By partnering with skilled Filipino VAs through an agency like Empowering Virtual Solution, you can unlock the full potential of your business, enhance productivity, and scale without the overwhelm.

Want to learn more about how outsourcing to a Virtual Assistant can help your business grow? According to a study by Forbes, businesses that embrace outsourcing can reduce costs, improve service, and scale faster. This is a game-changing opportunity for any growing business.

If you’re ready to take the next step and find the right virtual assistant for your business, visit our VA Packages page to explore how we can support your growth. Don’t let the barriers to growth slow you down. Start delegating today and watch your business thrive.

How Hiring a Virtual Assistant helped one CEO

How Hiring a Virtual Assistant Helped One CEO Overcome Business Overwhelm

Hiring a Virtual Assistant can alleviate the pressure of wearing multiple hats when running a business. As a CEO, you start out passionate and hands-on, handling every detail yourself. But before long, you’re juggling everything: client emails, scheduling appointments, managing social media, keeping up with admin, and still trying to steer the ship while managing the marketing side of the business. It all piles up fast, and if you don’t catch it early, overwhelm sneaks in and takes over.

Does this sound familiar?

This was the exact struggle of Alex (name changed for privacy). She was doing everything herself and drowning in the day-to-day details. Alex knew she needed help but felt hesitant about hiring someone remotely, fearing that handing over control might jeopardize her business‘s integrity.

Disclaimer:
We use the code name ‘Alex’ to maintain client confidentiality while sharing a real story that many business owners will find relatable. This approach helps us offer authentic insights without disclosing personal details.

The Struggle to Let Go

It’s completely normal to feel hesitant about hiring a Virtual Assistant, especially when it comes to something as personal as your business. You might worry about hiring the wrong person for important tasks, like client emails, scheduling, or social media management. You ask yourself: “Will they really understand my business?” “What if mistakes happen?” “What if I lose control?”

These doubts often hold business owners back from hiring a Virtual Assistant. Trusting someone remotely to manage vital parts of your business can feel like a big risk.

But here’s the truth: if you keep doing everything yourself, your business will eventually hit a ceiling. You can’t grow without learning to delegate.

Taking the Plunge, with a Little Help

Eventually, Alex decided to take the leap. She hired a Virtual Assistant in September 2023 through Empowering Virtual Solution (EVS), an agency known for matching businesses with highly skilled Virtual Assistants.

What truly made the difference wasn’t just finding a VA; it was the ongoing, hands-on support from the EVS team. From the very start, EVS didn’t just connect Alex with a Virtual Assistant and walk away; they provided guidance, coaching, and a support network for both Alex and her VA.

The EVS team helped set up clear systems to make delegation easier and less stressful. They introduced shared calendars, organised email folders, and recommended tools to keep everything transparent and manageable. They also scheduled regular check-ins to ensure the VA was on track and that Alex’s needs were being met.

Having this kind of support made the whole process less intimidating. It turned delegation from a scary leap into a step-by-step journey.

Building Trust, One Task at a Time

At first, Alex started small. She handed over simple, low-risk tasks and kept a close eye on how things were going. This approach helped her build confidence in her Virtual Assistant’s abilities.

Bit by bit, Alex realised she could trust her VA with more important responsibilities. The VA took over managing emails, ensuring clients received timely responses. Scheduling became hassle-free as the VA managed appointments and calendar conflicts seamlessly.

Social media had long been neglected due to a lack of time, but the VA stepped in to create and post content regularly. This simple shift not only lifted a burden but brought in new clients who found the business online.

Hiring a Virtual Assistant Leads to Gaining Hours, Peace of Mind, and Proven Results

With the VA’s help, Alex reclaimed 10 to 20 hours every single week time she hadn’t had in years. That’s an extra day or two of workweek hours back to focus on strategy, business development, or even just to breathe.

Alex’s feedback on her VA’s performance has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting her ability to organise tasks efficiently:

  • Quality of Work: 6/6

  • Job Knowledge: 6/6

  • Communication Skills: 6/6

  • Productivity: 6/6

This strong performance built even more trust and confidence. In fact, the VA has continued to work with Alex up to the present day, now for over 1 year and 9 months, proving the lasting value of a well-matched Virtual Assistant supported by EVS.

This newfound time meant Alex could stop firefighting and start planning. Instead of managing every little detail, she was able to think bigger and work on growing the business.

And she wasn’t alone. Throughout this journey, EVS provided ongoing training and mentorship for the VA, helping her expand her skill set beyond admin tasks into marketing and project coordination. This meant the VA became a true partner in the business, not just a task-doer.

Why Support Matters: The EVS Difference

Hiring a Virtual Assistant is one thing. But having a dedicated agency like EVS supporting both you and your VA is what makes the whole system work.

EVS provides:

  • Ongoing mentorship for Virtual Assistants to ensure they grow with your business needs

  • Monthly VA training on the latest marketing trends, admin, and personal development topics

  • Monthly CEO support for clients like Alex

  • Regular check-ins and performance reviews to catch issues early

  • Access to training modules so your VA stays sharp and skilled

  • A responsive support team who can step in if challenges arise

This level of support builds trust, not just between Alex and her VA, but also with the whole process of delegation itself.

What Alex Learned That Could Help You

  • Trust takes time – Don’t expect to hand over everything at once. Start small and build confidence gradually.
  • Clear communication is key – Set expectations, provide feedback, and use tools that make collaboration simple.
  • Partnering with a trusted agency like EVS changes everything – The right support can turn delegation from a risk into an advantage.
  • Invest in your VA’s growth – When you help your assistant improve their skills, your business benefits in the long run.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Hiring a Virtual Assistant might feel daunting, but with the right partner, it doesn’t have to be. Empowering Virtual Solution specialises in matching businesses with skilled Virtual Assistants and providing the ongoing training and support that ensures success.

If you want to delegate confidently and reclaim your time, EVS can help.

Let’s make delegation work for you.

Additional Resources to Help You Scale Your Business

As you consider hiring a Virtual Assistant, here are some valuable resources and tools to assist you in your journey of growth and delegation:

  • GoHighLevel: A complete sales and marketing platform that helps you manage and automate workflows, making it easier to collaborate with your Virtual Assistant.

  • Buffer: A social media management tool that can help you and your Virtual Assistant schedule posts, track analytics, and manage content across platforms.

If you’re ready to delegate confidently and take your business to the next level, explore our VA Services and see how we can support your growth.

From Employee to CEO: Lead Strategically with a Virtual Assistant

From Employee to CEO: Lead Strategically with a Virtual Assistant

Running a business is one of the most rewarding yet challenging ventures you can take on. Many entrepreneurs start their journey by doing everything themselves – from managing client emails and scheduling appointments to handling social media and invoicing. While this “all-hands-on-deck” approach may be necessary in the early days, it quickly becomes unsustainable as your business grows.

The reality is that to truly scale and succeed, you must stop acting like an employee in your own company and start thinking like the CEO. This means shifting your focus from everyday tasks to strategic leadership – setting vision, driving growth, and making high-level decisions that shape the future of your business.

One of the most effective ways to make this shift is by hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA). A VA, particularly a skilled Filipino VA or experienced offshore staff, can take on the operational tasks that eat up your time, allowing you to concentrate on what matters most: leading your business.

The reality is that to truly scale and succeed, you must stop acting like an employee in your own company and start thinking like the CEO. This means shifting your focus from everyday tasks to strategic leadership setting vision, driving growth, and making high-level decisions that shape the future of your business.

One of the most effective ways to make this shift is by hiring a virtual assistant (VA). A VA, particularly a skilled Filipino VA or experienced offshore staff, can take on the operational tasks that eat up your time, allowing you to concentrate on what matters most: leading your business.

Why Business Owners Stay Stuck Doing Everything

It’s common for business owners to get trapped in the “doing” phase. The drive to keep things running smoothly often leads to spending long hours juggling emails, client communications, and administrative work. While these tasks are essential, they are not where your greatest value lies.

When you work in your business instead of on it, you limit your ability to innovate and grow. This constant firefighting mode can cause burnout, overwhelm, and frustration. You may find yourself missing opportunities for networking, strategic partnerships, or developing new products or services simply because you’re too busy managing day-to-day operations.

Hiring a Virtual Assistant can break this cycle. By delegating routine and time-consuming tasks to your VA, you step into the CEO role – one focused on vision, strategy, and growth.

What Does It Mean to Be a CEO?

The CEO’s job is to steer the ship, not row it. As CEO, you are responsible for:

  • Setting the company’s long-term vision and goals

  • Leading your team with clear direction and inspiration

  • Making strategic decisions that drive growth

  • Building strong relationships with partners and clients

  • Identifying new business opportunities and innovations

This is very different from being the one who responds to every email or schedules every meeting. To do this effectively, you need to delegate operational tasks – this is where your Virtual Assistant comes in.

How a Virtual Assistant Supports the CEO Role

A virtual assistant is a remote professional who handles administrative, operational, and specialised tasks tailored to your business needs. Unlike traditional employees, VAs work offsite, often providing flexible, on-demand support.

Filipino VAs have become highly sought after globally due to their excellent communication skills, cultural compatibility with Western businesses, strong work ethic, and competitive rates. Hiring offshore staff from the Philippines offers a cost-effective way to add professional support without the overheads of local hires.

Tasks your VA can manage include:

  • Email and calendar management

  • Customer service and live chat support

  • Social media scheduling and content creation

  • Data entry and document preparation

  • Bookkeeping and invoicing

  • Research and lead generation

  • Website updates and SEO optimisation

By entrusting these tasks to a VA, you gain back hours each week to focus on your CEO responsibilities.

Benefits of Hiring a Virtual Assistant

Hiring a Virtual Assistant is more than just offloading work – it’s a strategic business move with numerous benefits:

  1. Time Freedom to Lead
    Delegating routine tasks to a VA frees up your time and mental energy. This allows you to focus on growth strategies, client relationships, and business innovation.

  2. Cost Savings
    Hiring offshore staff, especially Filipino VAs, can be significantly more affordable than employing full-time local staff. You pay only for the hours or services you need, avoiding costs like office space, taxes, and benefits.

  3. Flexibility and Scalability
    VAs provide flexible support. You can scale hours up or down according to your business demands – perfect for seasonal fluctuations or project-based work.

  4. Access to Diverse Skills
    Many VAs specialise in areas such as marketing, bookkeeping, customer service, or graphic design. This gives you access to expertise that might otherwise be costly or unavailable locally.

  5. Improved Productivity and Efficiency
    With a dedicated VA handling the operational workload, business processes become smoother. Your VA ensures tasks are done on time and nothing slips through the cracks.

  6. Extended Business Hours
    If your VA is based in a different time zone, your business can operate almost 24/7. This is invaluable for customer support and industries needing rapid responses.

What Tasks Should You Delegate to Your Virtual Assistant?

Knowing what to delegate can be tricky, but here are common tasks to consider handing over to your VA:

  • Managing and replying to emails

  • Scheduling meetings and managing calendars

  • Handling customer enquiries and complaints

  • Social media posting and basic content creation

  • Bookkeeping, invoicing, and expense tracking

  • Conducting market research and competitor analysis

  • Assisting with project management tools and document preparation

By delegating these operational responsibilities, you empower yourself to focus on leadership and strategic growth.

How to Hire the Right Virtual Assistant

Hiring the perfect VA requires careful planning. Follow these steps for success:

  1. Identify Your Needs
    Write down the tasks you want to delegate and the skills required.

  2. Set a Budget
    Determine what you can afford and consider the return on investment.

  3. Search for Candidates
    Use trusted platforms or agencies specialising in Filipino virtual assistants or offshore staff.

  4. Interview and Test
    Conduct video interviews and assign test tasks to gauge communication and skills.

  5. Provide Clear Onboarding
    Set expectations, share business processes, and provide training.

  6. Establish Communication and Management Systems
    Use collaboration tools like Trello, Slack, or Asana for smooth workflows.

Managing Your Virtual Assistant for Long-Term Success

To get the most from your VA relationship:

  • Set clear goals and deadlines

  • Schedule regular check-ins to review progress

  • Give constructive feedback and recognition

  • Encourage ongoing training and skills development

  • Foster a positive and respectful working relationship

Treat your VA as a valued team member – this leads to higher motivation and better results.

Real-World Success: Making the Shift Work

Countless business owners across Australia have transformed their companies by hiring virtual assistants from the Philippines. Delegating administrative and operational tasks has given them back 10-20 hours per week, allowing them to focus on business growth and innovation.

This shift not only boosts productivity but also reduces stress and creates space for strategic thinking. As a CEO, your time is your most valuable asset – make it count.

Final Thoughts

If you want to grow your business and reclaim your time, the transition from working in your business to leading it strategically is essential. Hiring a virtual assistant, particularly a reliable Filipino VA or offshore staff, will empower you to focus on what truly matters.

Start your journey today. Delegate the small stuff, and step fully into your role as CEO – the leader your business deserves.

If you’re ready to hire a virtual assistant to transform your business, don’t wait. Reach out and discover how offshore staff can be your greatest asset.

For more insights on hiring a Virtual Assistant, check out this Forbes guide on making the right hire for your business needs.

How Hiring a Virtual Assistant Transforms Your Business

How Hiring a Virtual Assistant Transforms Your Business

How Hiring a Virtual Assistant Transforms Your Business” is more than just a solution, it’s the key to unlocking the potential of your company.

Running a business is no small feat. It takes vision, leadership, and a clear focus on strategy to thrive in today’s competitive market. Yet, so many business owners find themselves bogged down by endless to-do lists, managing emails, juggling calendars, responding to customer inquiries, and trying to keep up with the ever-demanding world of social media. These tasks, while important, can quickly drain your energy and pull your focus away from what truly matters: growing your business.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs struggle with balancing the operational details while trying to steer the ship. The good news? There’s a solution that can help you break free from the grind and reclaim your time: hiring a virtual assistant (VA). With the right VA by your side, you can delegate time-consuming tasks, free up your schedule, and concentrate on leading your business to new heights.

Let’s dive into why focusing on strategy over the small stuff is essential, how virtual assistants can make a difference, and practical steps for hiring and managing your own VA effectively.

Why Strategy Should Be Your Priority

The most successful business leaders don’t try to do everything themselves. Instead, they focus on steering their companies towards long-term goals. They set the vision, drive innovation, and inspire their teams to achieve more.

But when you’re caught up in daily minutiae, your ability to lead and innovate takes a hit. You end up reacting to problems instead of proactively building solutions. This reactive mode drains your energy and creativity—two critical ingredients for success. Over time, it can lead to burnout, stalled growth, and a feeling of being stuck in your own business.

Think about it: When you spend hours answering emails, scheduling appointments, or managing social media, you’re not just losing time. You’re losing opportunities to strategise, network, or develop new products and services that could take your business to the next level. This isn’t just about working smarter; it’s about working on the right things.

Shifting your focus to strategy is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s about prioritising high-value activities that drive growth and ensure sustainability. And the best part? Delegating the small stuff to a skilled VA can help you make this shift without sacrificing quality or productivity.

Learn how a Virtual Assistant transforms your business by managing key tasks, so you can focus on growth.

A virtual assistant (VA) is a remote professional who provides support by handling administrative, operational, or specialised tasks. Unlike traditional employees, VAs work offsite and often offer flexible, on-demand support tailored to your needs. They’re experts in managing the tasks that keep your business running smoothly, allowing you to focus on the bigger picture.

Here’s the beauty of hiring a VA: they can handle a wide range of tasks, from managing your inbox and scheduling meetings to running social media campaigns and even bookkeeping. Thanks to advancements in technology and the growing pool of skilled professionals worldwide, finding a VA who aligns with your business needs has never been easier.

Additionally, virtual assistant services often come with lower overhead costs. There’s no need for office space, equipment, or full-time salaries. You pay for the support you need, whether it’s a few hours a week or a dedicated monthly package. This flexibility makes VAs an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes.

Why Hiring a Virtual Assistant Is a Smart Move

The decision to hire a VA can be transformative for your business—a true example of how a Virtual Assistant transforms your business. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Cost Savings

Hiring a VA is often more cost-effective than employing a full-time staff member. You only pay for the hours or tasks you need, avoiding expenses like benefits, taxes, and office space. Offshore VAs, in particular, can provide high-quality support at highly competitive rates.

2. Flexibility

Virtual assistants offer unmatched flexibility. You can scale their hours up or down based on your business’s current demands. Whether you need extra support during a busy season or a smaller commitment during slower periods, a VA can adapt to your needs.

3. Time Management

Delegating routine tasks to a VA allows you to reclaim your time and focus on what you do best—whether that’s building relationships with clients, strategising for growth, or pursuing personal passions.

4. Access to Expertise

Many VAs specialise in specific areas such as digital marketing, customer service, graphic design, or bookkeeping. By hiring a VA with expertise in a particular field, you gain access to skills that may be difficult or expensive to source locally.

5. Increased Efficiency

With a VA handling the operational aspects of your business, you can streamline processes and boost productivity. Their support ensures that nothing falls through the cracks, enabling you to deliver better results to your clients or customers.

6. 24/7 Business Operations

If your VA is in a different time zone, your business can essentially run around the clock. This is especially valuable for customer service or industries requiring quick responses.

What Tasks Can You Delegate to a Virtual Assistant?

One of the biggest hurdles for business owners is figuring out what to delegate,  a key part of how a Virtual Assistant transforms your business. The truth is, you can outsource almost anything that doesn’t require your personal touch. Here are some common tasks to consider:

Administrative Support

  • Email and calendar management
  • Scheduling appointments
  • Data entry and document preparation
  • Travel arrangements

Customer Service

  • Responding to enquiries
  • Managing live chat or help desk platforms
  • Handling returns or complaints

Marketing Assistance

  • Social media management and content creation
  • Email marketing campaigns
  • Lead generation and follow-ups
  • Market research and competitor analysis

Financial Management

  • Bookkeeping and invoicing
  • Expense tracking and budget reports
  • Payroll assistance

Specialised Tasks

  • Website updates and maintenance
  • Graphic design
  • SEO optimisation
  • Product sourcing and supplier communication

By offloading these tasks to a VA, you can free up several hours each week—hours that can be redirected towards strategic initiatives and personal well-being.

How to Hire the Right Virtual Assistant

Finding the perfect VA for your business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these steps to ensure a successful hire:

  1. Identify Your Needs
    Start by making a list of tasks you want to delegate. Be specific about the skills and experience you’re looking for.
  2. Set a Budget
    Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Remember to weigh the cost against the value of the time you’ll save.
  3. Research and Vet Candidates
    Use reputable platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or VA-specific agencies to find candidates. Look for reviews, ratings, and portfolios.
  4. Conduct Interviews
    Schedule video interviews to assess communication skills, professionalism, and cultural fit.
  5. Test Their Skills
    Assign a small paid task to evaluate their capabilities and reliability before committing to a long-term agreement.
  6. Check References
    Ask for testimonials or contact previous clients to learn about their experience working with the VA.

Virtual Assistant Pricing: What to Expect

VA pricing varies based on factors such as experience, location, and the type of work—a crucial consideration in how a Virtual Assistant transforms your business. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Hourly Rates: Offshore VAs typically charge $10–$30 per hour, while local or highly specialised VAs may charge $30–$60+ per hour.

  • Monthly Retainers: Some VAs offer packages for a set number of hours per month, providing consistent support.

  • Project-Based Fees: For one-off tasks like website design or market research, you might pay a flat rate.

When evaluating costs, remember to consider the return on investment. A VA’s support can free up your time to focus on revenue-generating activities, making the expense well worth it.

Managing and Supporting Your Virtual Assistant

A successful VA relationship hinges on effective communication and management. Here’s how to set your VA up for success:

1. Establish Clear Expectations

Define tasks, deadlines, and quality standards from the outset. Clear instructions help avoid misunderstandings and ensure high-quality work.

2. Use Collaboration Tools

Leverage tools like Trello, Asana, Slack, or Google Workspace to streamline communication and task management. These platforms keep everything organised and accessible.

3. Schedule Regular Check-Ins

Weekly or bi-weekly meetings provide an opportunity to discuss progress, address challenges, and realign priorities.

4. Invest in Onboarding

Take the time to familiarise your VA with your business processes, goals, and tools. This initial investment pays off in smoother collaboration.

5. Foster a Positive Relationship

Treat your VA as a valued member of your team. Recognise their contributions, provide constructive feedback, and celebrate successes together.

Real-Life Success Stories

Sarah, a busy e-commerce entrepreneur, was drowning in operational tasks. She spent her days managing customer emails, coordinating shipments, and scheduling social media posts, leaving little time for strategy or creativity. Feeling burnt out, she decided to hire an offshore VA.

Within weeks, Sarah’s VA took over customer support and social media management, freeing up 20 hours per week. With her newfound time, Sarah focused on product development and building partnerships. Within six months, her business revenue grew by 40%, and she finally took her first guilt-free vacation in years.

This story highlights how a Virtual Assistant transforms your business. It’s not just about offloading tasks—it’s about unlocking growth, freedom, and sustainable success. Countless business owners have experienced similar transformations by leveraging the power of virtual assistant services.

Tools That Support Structured Delegation

Platforms like Monday.com help businesses organise tasks, workflows, and accountability in one place. This makes it easier to collaborate with remote or offshore team members while maintaining transparency and momentum across the business:
👉 https://monday.com/

When paired with the right support structure, tools like this help delegation feel structured, not chaotic.

Final Thoughts: Focus on What Matters Most

Scaling your business isn’t about working harder, it’s about working smarter. By hiring a virtual assistant, you can shift your focus from daily distractions to the strategic leadership your business needs to thrive.

Start your journey today and watch your business and your peace of mind flourish.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re ready to step fully into your role as CEO and stop being buried in day-to-day tasks, the right support can make all the difference. With the right systems and a skilled Virtual Assistant in place, delegation becomes clear, structured, and effective.

If you’d like to explore what this could look like for your business, let’s have a conversation.

👉 Book a Call and see how we can support you with the right offshore team, the right structure, and the right guidance.