How the Virtual Assistant world will look in 2018

As the end of 2017 approaches, we reflect on another busy year for Virtual Assistants where demand for our services has gone from strength to strength.  A recent report from Tractica forecasts that active consumer virtual assistant users will increase from 390 million in 2015 to 1.8 billion worldwide by the end of 2021.

Predicted trends for 2018

Blogging: The recent boom in blogging that has gripped all industries is set to continue and is the perfect task to outsource to a Virtual Assistant.

Small online businesses: We are seeing a trend in small online businesses launching. In these difficult economic times, people are having to become entrepreneurs and start their own businesses. For an online business upstart; content writing, marketing and design are key. The services of a Virtual Assistant can help to launch a business and they can then support on an ongoing basis.

Streamlining of business processes: As companies continue to look for ways to cut costs and streamline their operations, they will continue to turn to online freelancers who offer value for money.

Flexible working: The popularity of flexible working is growing as people realise that the daily commute to work isn’t necessary and that there are alternatives that provide a better work to play ratio.  One poll carried out by Gallup found that 37% of American workers have worked virtually at some point in their careers and it is fast becoming the norm.

Older workers: Virtual working is allowing workers to continue working past retirement age around the world. This is becoming a necessity for some who are finding themselves with inadequate pensions and is a trend set to continue in 2018.

The demand for Virtual Assistants will continue to grow with some skill sets particularly in demand. Writing skills, good social media skills as well as marketing are key areas predicted to be in demand from Virtual Assistants in 2018.