Continual learning as a Virtual Assistant
The world is always changing. New technologies offer new challenges and new methods. Clients have different needs as their business changes and grows. A Virtual Assistant must keep up with all these changes to deliver the best service to their clients. Apart from this working for a variety of businesses also exposes the Virtual Assistant to new industries and markets.
Doing research is a great part of learning
My first assignment with VA Connect was research on Smart Home products. I was amazed at how a Smart Home works. There is a huge range of products available which makes life easier and safer and they are integrated to varying degrees. In many cases the system is controlled by a smart speaker which is voice integrated systems from e-commerce providers. The irony is that such a system is also known as a Virtual Assistant. Many people already rely on artificial intelligence systems which remind them of appointments, book a restaurant or orders food based on what stock there is, or isn’t, in the smart fridge. I could give many more examples but cannot list them all. The most interesting product I learnt about is a device which releases a scent upon request. Various aromas are available which create the mood required. Because this costs around US $400 I am not interested in buying one, but it would be nice.
Being a Virtual Assistant also teaches me life skills such as managing my time and prioritising. On a typical day I have a routine so that I can do the necessary chores and fit in my client’s work as planned. Of course, there are days when my plans don’t work out and I need to get up early and put in a few hours before breakfast. At other times I work late into the night, but the work gets done and I meet my deadlines.
Learning new life skills
What I have also learnt is that I can be disciplined as well as flexible. I perform better when I don’t allow myself to feel stressed. There is no manager or colleague anxiously hovering over my desk, breaking my concentration and slowing my down. I have also learnt how to manage my family’s needs and we are all more organised as a result.
The new technology I have been exposed has opened my eyes to the wealth of products which I would never have known about. My confidence has grown as a result.
Because clients rely on their assistant for help it is also important that I acquire skills and learn how to use new technology. There are many, many options for learning on the internet – YouTube, online courses and help forums are some examples. If I cannot manage, there is always the team at VA Connect who can point me in the right direction.
