Your host, Craig Andrews, talks with the President and CEO of 20four7VA, Catherine vanVonno. Contrary to popular belief, the role of a virtual assistant extends beyond administrative tasks. As Catherine explained, VAs can be web developers, marketers, bookkeepers, and more. The only requirements are access to a computer, phone line, and internet connection. This flexibility allows VAs to work remotely from anywhere in the world, breaking down geographical barriers and opening up a world of opportunities.
The rise of remote work opportunities has had a positive impact on countries like the Philippines and India, the two biggest hubs for virtual assistants. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this shift, with companies realizing that many jobs can be done remotely. This has led to workers leaving expensive areas like Silicon Valley in search of more affordable living conditions.
There is great importance in providing job opportunities that are safe and free from exploitation, as many workers in the Philippines face unsafe conditions and exploitation continuously. Catherine explained that by offering lower labor rates, offshore job opportunities enable businesses to provide safer and fairer work conditions.
