Feeling overwhelmed by your growing to-do list?
If you're juggling too many tasks and struggling to keep up, it might be time to bring in a virtual assistant (VA) to help lighten the load.
But when you start looking into virtual assistants, you quickly realise there’s a massive range of options at different price points.
How do you know which VA is right for your business?
The key is to understand what level of support you actually need. Let’s break down the three main VA categories so you can decide what works best for you.
Low-cost virtual assistant
Ideal for: Simple, repetitive tasks that require detailed instructions
Cost: $5-15 USD/hour
Hiring a VA from overseas (e.g., the Philippines, India) can be a great budget-friendly option for businesses that need help with process-driven, straightforward tasks. If you can provide clear instructions and prefer a structured, task-based approach, this could work for you.
Best tasks to delegate:
Digital filing and data entry
Inbox sorting and email tagging
Basic research tasks
Simple scheduling tasks
What to consider:
Works well with clear, structured instructions
Follows set processes rather than independently problem-solving
Time zone differences may require some flexibility in workflow
Communication styles and internet reliability can vary
Is this the right fit for you?
If you need someone to handle simple, repetitive admin work and are comfortable providing detailed step-by-step instructions, a low-cost VA might be a good starting point. However, if you’re looking for a VA who is confident to take the lead, problem-solve, or handle client interactions, you’ll likely need more support.
Mid-range virtual assistant
Ideal for: Business owners who need proactive support
Cost: $30-60 NZD/hour
A mid-range VA is typically a solo freelancer or contractor with specialised skills in certain areas. They require less hand-holding than low-cost VAs and can complete higher-level tasks with minimal supervision. However, they are still working alone, meaning you are dependent on their availability and skillset.
Best tasks to delegate:
A mid-range VA brings efficiency, organisation, and specialised expertise to help your business run more smoothly. They can do everything a low-cost VA can do, and depending on their individual skillset, they might also be able to manage:
Diary and inbox management
Client communication and follow-ups
Document preparation and formatting
Project coordination and reporting
Social media assistance
Basic bookkeeping support
Event and travel coordination
CRM updates and data management
Creating and managing email templates
What to consider:
Skillset is limited to the individual VA’s expertise
No backup if they are sick or unavailable
Will be more proactive than a low-cost VA but still requires some management
Is this the right fit for you?
If you want a more experienced VA who can take some initiative but don’t need a full team behind them, a mid-range VA could be the right option. Just keep in mind that if they take time off, you’ll be without support.
Premium virtual assistant
Ideal for: Business owners who need strategic, high-level support with continuity of service
Cost: $65-150 NZD/hour
A premium VA (often part of an agency) offers a higher level of expertise and a broader range of skills. They don’t just complete tasks, they take the lead in optimising and improving processes within your business. If you need consistent, reliable support that frees you from day-to-day operations, this is the best option.
Best tasks to delegate:
A premium VA doesn’t just complete tasks, they optimise and refine processes to make your business more efficient. They provide strategic insights, automate workflows, and help improve overall operations. A premium VA can do everything a low-cost and mid-range VA can do, as well as:
Business process automation and workflow improvements
Financial administration (accounts payable/receivable, invoicing, payroll processing)
CRM management
High-level executive admin and reporting
Systems setup and optimisation (email workflows, automation tools, project management software)
Customer experience support and client onboarding processes
What to consider:
Fully proactive – they don’t just do the work; they improve the way it’s done
Access to a team of specialists, ensuring continuity of service
Can handle a wide range of business support tasks, from admin to bookkeeping to automation
Is this the right fit for you?
If you’re looking for true business support - not just admin help - a premium VA or agency will give you a higher level of expertise, consistency, and scalability.
Which Virtual Assistant is Right for You?
Type | Best for... | Cost | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
Low-Cost VA | Simple, process-driven tasks | $5-15 USD/hour | Follows instructions, works best with clear guidelines |
Mid-Range VA | Proactive business support | $30-60 NZD/hour | Some initiative, but solo operator |
Premium VA/Agency | High-level, strategic business support | $65-150 NZD/hour | Takes the lead, full-service support |
Find the Right Support for Your Business
Still unsure which type of support is best for your business? Take our Support Quiz to find out whether an international VA, a VA agency, or even an employee is the right fit for your needs.
If you've decided that a premium VA agency is the way to go, use our ROI Calculator to see how a higher investment in a VA can deliver real returns for your business.
The more you invest in a VA, the greater the return - less time spent on admin, improved efficiency, and more opportunities to focus on revenue-generating tasks - and the more time you’ll have to focus on growing your business.
Still not sure on the right option for you? Book a free discovery call or drop us a line below, and we’ll help you find the best-fit VA solution for your needs.
