In today’s fast-paced business world, many business owners are faced with crucial decisions. That is whether to hire a virtual assistant or an employee. Both options have their pros and cons. Yet, it’s important to consider your specific business needs and goals before deciding.

A remote team member (RTM), also known as a virtual assistant, is a professional who works remotely. He/she provides administrative, creative, or help to clients. But, employees work on-site. They work based on a set of specific responsibilities and tasks to complete.

So, which option is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of each. 

Remote Team Member Pros

Cost-effective: RTMs are remote workers. You don’t have to worry about the costs associated with on-site employees. Examples are office space, equipment, and benefits. 

Flexibility: RTMs can work on a part-time or full-time basis, depending on your needs. You can also hire multiple RTMs with different skill sets to help you with various tasks. 

Specialized skills: RTMs often specialize in a particular area. They are experts in social media management, email marketing, and graphic design. This means you can find someone who has the specific skills you need to help your business grow. 

Scalability: As your business grows, you can scale your RTM team. In this way, they meet your needs without the hassle of hiring and training new employees. 

Remote Team Member Cons: 

Communication: Working with remote team members (RTMs) has many advantages. Yet, effective communication is essential for success. Don’t worry, you can ensure smooth collaboration and productive outcomes. You can do it by establishing clear communication channels. Of course, also consider setting expectations for response times and availability. 

Time zone differences: With some flexibility and coordination, time zone differences are manageable. Additionally, advancement in technology bridges the gap. 

Lack of physical presence: While some tasks need a physical presence, remote work provides opportunities for virtual solutions. It can be online customer service and inventory management systems. 

Employee Pros: 

On-site presence: Employees can provide a physical presence at your business. They handle tasks that need in-person interaction, such as customer service or sales. 

Team building: Employees can become part of your team and help build a company culture. 

Control: As an employer, you have more control over the work your employees do and how they do it. 

Loyalty: Employees tend to have more loyalty to their employer and are more invested in the success of the business. 

Employee Cons: 

Higher costs: Hiring employees comes with higher costs, such as salaries, benefits, and taxes. 

Limited flexibility: Employees work full-time. They may not have the flexibility to work on a project-by-project basis. 

Training: You’ll need to invest time and resources in training your employees. You also ensure they have the skills and knowledge to do their jobs. 

Legal obligations: As an employer, you have legal obligations. You have to provide benefits, follow labor laws, and handle payroll taxes. 

In the end, whether you choose to hire a remote team member, or an employee depends on your business needs and goals. If you need someone with specific skills to handle tasks remotely, an RTM may be the better option. But, if you need on-site support and a physical presence, an employee may be a better fit. Regardless of your choice, make sure you do your research. Set clear expectations, and communicate effectively to ensure a successful working relationship. 

But finding these capable and skilled professionals would be one of the disadvantages. A company’s sole focus is to run the business. Of course, the last thing they would think about is hiring and managing them. 

That is the genius of our APEX game plan! We will go to any length to help businesses. This includes managing their daily operations more effectively. 

We can provide you with the highest quality RTM employees. As a reputable virtual staffing agency, we always allow you to focus on the tasks that are important to you. While you are doing that, you can delegate those tasks to your RTM! 

APEX Virtual Staffing is a leading staffing agency specializing in a wide range of industries. To schedule a discovery call, email Inquires@ApexVirtualStaffing.com.