A Virtual Assistant (VA) is an experienced office professional, supplying flexible business services. They work as independent contractors, based in their own office, and carry out work remotely via email, telephone, fax and post.  They offer professional business services as and when you need them, and you only pay for the hours you use. If you do not have the money or space to commit long term to employing permanent staff, you just need work completed occasionally, or you need access to a specialist skill, a VA is what you are looking for. You pay for the hours worked, there are no additional costs such as: office furniture, computer equipment/software, holiday or sick pay. You can work with the same person every time, avoiding the need to train new temps. Thousands of companies and individuals are now benefiting from the services of a VA.