Working from home continues to be on the rise as more people choose to sleep than endure the commute. There’s no need to worry about what to eat for lunch either since the kitchen or pantry is only a few steps away.

There are other advantages that remote jobs have over traditional office positions but many remain hesitant to shift to this type of arrangement. One of the reasons is the stereotypes about virtual assistants and other online professionals.

It’s about time to put these ideas to rest!

With thousands, if not millions, of Filipinos identifying themselves as a home-based worker, they’re due to receive a little more respect.

Here are common stereotypes that we’d like to debunk for you:

Stereotype No. 1: They’re not as productive

It’s true that there are many distractions when you’re working remotely. There are the kids, the laundry and the chores to attend to, for instance. Plus, you won’t have a boss to physically keep tabs on you and remind you to get back to work when you do get distracted.

Bear in mind that there are distractions in an office too. Examples include chatting by the water cooler, dropping by a colleague’s cubicle and sharing cake for someone’s birthday celebration. A virtual assistant doesn’t have these kinds of interruptions and will be spared from any office drama.

Stereotype No. 2: They don’t work a full day

While there are some online professionals who only work 4 hours a day or even less, many work a full 8-hour shift and usually in the evenings at that. It’s just that they don’t have to spend time getting ready for a day around others or commuting to the office.

Online jobs tend to come and go too. This week may be relaxed and slow but the next might be packed with late-night sessions. A remote assistant needs to market themselves and attract new clients constantly as long-term contracts can be rare, especially for newcomers. Hence, the days are full too.

Stereotype No. 3: They’re sad and lonely

Contrary to popular belief, a remote virtual assistant isn’t holed up in front of their workstation all day. They may not necessarily enjoy the social activities expected in a physical office, yet they can always choose to go to a library, co-working space, or coffee shop for human interaction.

With a quick Google search, they can find out the best public locations for getting stuff done. Many of these facilities hold events such as pitch parties or training sessions so a remote assistants worker can still boost their knowledge and expand their network.

Stereotype No. 4: They aren’t as communicative

Just because the talk isn’t in-person doesn’t mean that it’s going to be ineffective. In fact, it actually removes any nuances and allows people to dive right into important topics. Of course, managers and clients will need to outline clear tools and expectations for this to work.

It may be specified that the VA must be online during specific times and has to reply to Skype messages as soon as possible. Zoom might need to be installed beforehand and Slack might need to be set up on the first day. What is required will vary according to the type of work.

Stereotypes No. 5: They’re millennials

The option to telecommute isn’t available to only generations Y and Z. While they’re usually the ones most interested in flexible arrangements, there are many online professionals from generation X too—and they earn as much as their office-based counterparts!

Certainly, technical knowledge is necessary and some older individuals may have a difficult time learning to use a computer effectively. However, those who have the interest, background, and perseverance are able to adjust and even succeed with a remote work arrangement.

Stereotype No. 6: They’re hired by only small businesses

Small to medium-sized enterprises decide to hire remote workers to save money since they won’t have to buy computer equipment or rent a bigger office to grow their team. Plenty of larger organisations have followed or are following suit to cut costs.

Such entities may be big enough to afford their own building but it’s always a smart business move to reduce expenses wherever possible. Some well-known brands that hire offshore staff include Dell, Xerox, and Wells Fargo, although they prefer those residing in the same country.

The point is that, for many virtual assistants, there are names worth brandishing on the resume.

Stereotype No. 7: They only do customer service or writing

Customer service and content are two professions that lend themselves more easily to home-based work but they’re not the only ones available. There are numerous opportunities for those who specialise in accounting and bookkeeping, marketing, education, sales and more.

If you’re a registered nurse and want to continue pursuing a career in the medical field, there are people who are looking for professionals like you to assist doctors, read prescriptions and related tasks. Engineers, lawyers, and other experts are being hired for remote work as well.

Conclusion

In the past, the above stereotypes may have been the norm, but times have changed. More industries are being opened for remote work so it’s certainly possible to find a job that you have experience in or want to gain experience in.

Signing up with Remote Workmate makes it easier to become employed by a well-paying client. We’ll also guide you through the screening process and onboard you about the position, should you be accepted.