Can I Really Afford to Hire a Virtual Assistant?
5 Steps to Make Outsourcing Work for Your Business
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can I actually afford to hire a Virtual Assistant?” you’re not alone. Cost is one of the biggest concerns for business owners and entrepreneurs when it comes to outsourcing. And it’s a valid one.
When you’re used to running things solo juggling every task, managing life admin, and occasionally sacrificing your own pay to keep the business afloat the idea of hiring someone can feel like a stretch. There’s often a fear that you’ll overextend your resources or, worse, let someone down if finances get tight.
But here’s the truth:
If you’re already thinking about hiring a VA, you’ve likely reached the point where you need one.
So how do you move past the hesitation and make outsourcing a financially viable step forward? Let’s break it down.
5 Practical Steps to Affording a Virtual Assistant
1. Define the Value Before the Cost
Start by identifying what you’d outsource. Forget the budget for a moment and ask:
What tasks drain your time or energy?
What could someone else do more efficiently?
This clarity helps you see the value a VA brings before you worry about the price tag.
2. Understand the Going Rates
Many business owners worry about affordability without knowing the actual cost.
Typical UK rates for Virtual Assistants range from £25–£35 per hour, depending on experience, specialisms, and location. Some offer packages or retainers that give you more value per hour.
3. Zoom Out: What’s Your Bigger Picture?
If growth is your goal, what’s your strategy to get there?
Can you realistically do it alone, or do you need support to scale? Hiring a VA isn’t just about saving time it’s about creating space for growth.
4. Consider the Cost of Not Hiring
Flip the question:
What’s the impact of continuing as you are?
Are you spending time on admin instead of revenue-generating work?
Is burnout creeping in?
Sometimes, not hiring is the more expensive choice.
5. Start Small and Scale
You don’t need to go all in from the start. Begin with a small commitment just a few focused hours each month on a task that frees up your time or energy. Once you see the impact, scaling up becomes a confident next step, not a financial leap.
Final Thoughts
If you’re stuck in the “Can I afford it?” loop, shift the question to:
“What will it cost me not to hire one?”
With clarity, planning, and a staged approach, hiring a Virtual Assistant becomes not just affordable but essential
Want to explore what a VA can do for you? Book a discovery call today, no strings attached.