Many of us in the field of administrative support choose to call ourselves "administrative consultants" rather than virtual assistants.  The term "virtual assistant" is what the first wave of independent administrative support consultants called themselves, and some are still in business today and proudly use the term.  They created a new way of providing administrative services, and the ability to work "virtually" was and remains a valuable strategy. Unfortunately, the term "virtual assistant" has evolved to have multiple definitions or associations, not all of which reflect what we stand for as a profession.  It's unfortunate that the term "virtual assistant" often confuses rather than clarifies what we do.

Administrative consultants do work "virtually"; we depend primarily on electronic communication systems and the Internet as our interface with our clients. Thus, we can in theory work with clients who are located anywhere in the world.  We work in our own offices and with our own equipment, and we contract directly with our clients.

Administrative consultants typically don't solicit short-term assignments nor necessarily offer the "least expensive" prices.  We provide value in quality, relationships, and dependability.  We can assist with ongoing work processes and learn how to best support the unique business of each of our clients.  We don't work in other people's offices, nor are we paid as employees who are "brokered" by a coordinating company.

Our goal is partnership and our commitment is first and foremost to our clients' administrative support needs.