The Pros and Cons of Working in a VA Agency: My Personal Experience

I will never forget the first VA Agency that accepted, believed, and trusted me, even though I had no experience as a Virtual Assistant. It was a significant moment that kickstarted my career in this field.

I was happy, satisfied, and motivated to really do well. While some of my colleagues complain about the salary, operations, processes, management, training, and so on. As someone who has worked a total of 14 years in just two different companies, this is not new to me, for I believe that whatever the situation is, people always have something to say, no matter how good or bad the company is.

Despite the complaints, I found that the positives often outweighed the negatives. The structured environment provided a sense of stability, and the training programs helped me quickly adapt and excel in my new role. But of course, there's something I do not like as well, but I was informed about it during the interview and I accepted it because I needed a job.

Personally, working in a VA Agency is not bad at all. But here are the pros and cons based on my experience:

The Pros of Working in a VA Agency

1. Structured Environment:

   • Support and Guidance: VA Agencies often provide a structured environment with clear guidelines and processes. This can be incredibly helpful, especially if you are new to the industry.

   • Training Programs: Many agencies offer training programs to help you develop essential skills and grow professionally.

     

2. Steady Workflow:

   • Consistent Work: Agencies typically have a steady stream of clients, ensuring that you have a consistent workflow and income.

   • Diverse Projects: Working with an agency exposes you to a variety of projects, helping you gain diverse experience.

3. Networking Opportunities:

   • Professional Network: Being part of an agency allows you to connect with other virtual assistants and professionals, expanding your network.

   • Mentorship: You may have the opportunity to learn from more experienced VAs, gaining valuable insights and advice.

4. Less Administrative Hassle:

   • Client Acquisition: The agency handles client acquisition and contracts, allowing you to focus on delivering your best work.

   • Payment Processing: You don’t have to worry about chasing payments, as the agency manages this aspect.

5. Benefits:

   • Government Fees: Agencies often handle contributions to government benefits such as social security (SSS), housing (Pag-IBIG), and health insurance (HMO).

   • Bonuses: Many agencies offer bonuses, such as Christmas bonuses and performance bonuses.

The Cons of Working in a VA Agency

1. Lower Earnings:

   • Commission Cuts: Agencies take a commission from your earnings, which means you might earn less compared to working independently.

   • Fixed Rates: You may have to adhere to the agency’s pricing structure, limiting your ability to set your own rates.

     

2. Limited Freedom:

   • Assigned Projects: You might not have the freedom to choose the projects you work on, as they are assigned by the agency based on client needs.

   • Less Flexibility: The agency’s policies and procedures might restrict your working style and creativity.

3. Varying Workload:

   • Inconsistent Demand: While agencies aim to provide a steady workflow, there can be periods of low demand, affecting your income stability. Check out my blog: My Journey from Corporate Life to Freelancing: Lessons Learned as a Virtual Assistant to keep you prepared.

   • High Expectations: Agencies may have high performance standards, which can lead to stress and burnout if not managed well.

   • Time Tracking: Some agencies require strict time tracking, which can feel restrictive and may impact your workflow.

4. Dependence on Agency Reputation:

   • Agency’s Market Standing: Your success can be tied to the agency’s reputation. If the agency faces issues, it can impact your work and client relationships.

   • Branding Limitations: Working under an agency’s brand might limit your ability to build and promote your personal brand.

Working in a VA agency has its pros and cons, much like any other job. It offers a supportive environment and steady work but comes with limitations on earnings and freedom. Ultimately, the decision to work with an agency or go solo depends on your career goals, work style, and personal preferences.

For me, starting out in an agency was a great stepping stone into the world of freelancing. It helped me understand how to communicate with foreign clients, get a feel for their personalities, and gain valuable skills. If you're looking to build your career as a freelancer, working in a VA agency can provide a solid foundation to grow from.

Considering a career in virtual assistance?

Working in a VA agency can be a great way to start, offering support and experience to help you grow in the industry. Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about going solo, understanding the pros and cons is key to making the best decision for your future.

Check out my previous blog for more insights.

Have any questions or want personalized advice? Feel free to email me at [email protected].

You’ve got this!