Virtual Assistant vs. Freelancer: What’s the Difference (and Which One's Right for You)?

So, you’re thinking about working remotely, being your own boss, and ditching the 9–5? You’ve probably heard the terms “Virtual Assistant” and “freelancer” thrown around like they’re the same thing, but they actually can be very different. 

Let’s break it down so you can figure out which path fits your skills, lifestyle, and business dreams.

What is a Virtual Assistant (VA)?

A Virtual Assistant is someone who supports businesses (usually online) by handling admin tasks, client communications, and behind-the-scenes business stuff.

Common VA tasks can include:

• Managing emails & calendars
  
• Booking travel & scheduling meetings
  
• Customer service
  
• Data entry & document organisation
  
• Social media scheduling
  
• Light bookkeeping or invoicing
  
• Online research & reporting
  
• And more recently, podcast and digital marketing management

Most VAs work with clients on a retainer basis, meaning ongoing support each week or month. It’s a great model for consistent income!

What about Freelancers?

Freelancers are pros who offer specialised services—think writers, designers, web developers, and marketers. They typically work project-to-project using skills that they are highly trained in, setting their own rates and choosing the clients and work that excite them most.

Typical freelancer services might include:

• Website design or branding (think HTML highly complex websites)
  
• Blog writing or copywriting
  
• SEO & marketing strategy
  
• Photography or video editing
  
• Coaching or consulting
  
  

Freelancers are usually hired for one-off projects, and they often juggle multiple clients and projects at once. 

And, it’s not to say that as a Virtual Assistant you can’t offer some of the services that a freelancer does - it just means that as a Virtual Assistant in general you are multi-skilled and able to offer a variety of services, which are usually maintained over an ongoing period of time.

VA vs Freelancer: The Quick Comparison

So… Which One’s for You?

 You might love being a VA if:

• You’re super organised and love helping others stay on track
  
• You enjoy building long-term relationships with clients
  
• You’re looking for steady, predictable work
  
  

You might lean towards freelancer if:

• You’ve got a specific creative or technical skill
  
• You love variety and working on different projects
  
• You want more flexibility in your schedule and services
  
  

Top tip: You don’t have to pick just one. Many Virtual Assistants offer freelance-style services (like social media or copywriting), and plenty of freelancers offer VA-style support to clients who need ongoing help. You can make the most of both offerings!

Do You Want Structure or Variety?

At the end of the day, both paths offer the freedom to work from anywhere, control your schedule, and build a business on your terms. Whether you’re more of a systems pro or a creative chameleon, there’s room for you in the remote work world.

Make sure you check out our step-by-step guide to launching your VA business to explore more about how you can become a virtual assistant.

And if you feel ready to dive in, book your free Discovery Call with Debbie Rocket, founder of The ROCKET VA™ Academy, and discover how you can create your freedom career.