Since launching our dedicated Virtual Assistant (VA) division in 2020, Lily Shippen has watched the market shift and develop at pace. Five years on, one thing is clear: the demand for UK virtual assistants continues to rise, with more businesses than ever seeking flexible, high-quality support.
The reasons behind this are varied. For some, it’s about staying agile in a competitive market. For others, it’s a practical way to access top-tier administrative, operational, or specialist expertise without the commitment of a full-time hire. Whatever the motivation, there’s no doubt that virtual assistants are playing an increasingly strategic role in helping businesses grow.
A broad and evolving role
The term "virtual assistant" can mean many things. It covers a wide range of skill sets and services, from inbox management and diary coordination to social media scheduling, research, bookkeeping, and operational support. For this reason, it’s vital to understand what kind of support you actually need when hiring a virtual assistant. That’s where a tailored approach makes all the difference.
At Lily Shippen, we connect clients with experienced, self-employed virtual assistants who are carefully matched based on the client’s requirements, both in terms of skills and personality. We typically work with businesses looking for a minimum of eight hours of support per week. Whether the brief is focused, ongoing, or project-based, we provide the same level of care and attention as we do for any of our permanent recruitment.
Our process is straightforward. We take the time to understand what each client is looking for, then introduce them to virtual assistants who align with their needs. An introduction call or interview is standard, helping both parties establish a clear understanding of expectations from the outset.
Thinking about hiring a virtual assistant?
Before diving in, it’s worth taking a step back and considering a few key points:
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Where are your biggest time drains?
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Are you working in the business rather than on it?
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How many hours of support do you realistically need?
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Do you require help during specific hours or days?
These questions are often a good starting point for identifying whether a virtual assistant is the right solution. If you’re not sure where to begin, our team can help clarify your needs and recommend the right structure for support. Ultimately, a well-matched VA can help free up your time, improve efficiency, and drive growth.
Considering becoming a virtual assistant?
For those looking to become a virtual assistant in the UK, it’s important to understand what the role involves beyond the client work. All of the VAs we work with are self-employed, so it’s worth asking yourself whether that way of working is right for you.
While self-employment offers flexibility and the potential for high earnings, it also comes with added responsibility. You’ll need to manage your own marketing, secure clients, and handle your own finances and tax through self-assessment. Contracts may vary month to month, and work isn’t always guaranteed. It can be rewarding, but it requires a certain mindset.
It’s also worth getting clear on what you want to be known for. Do you excel at diary management? Are you passionate about social media? Would you prefer to support start-ups, or do you thrive in more corporate settings? Focusing on your offering makes it easier to build a strong reputation. It also means you’re more likely to enjoy the work you do and attract the right clients.
Saying "no" to the wrong opportunities might feel counterintuitive at first, but it pays off in the long run.
A growing market, with growing opportunity
Whether you're hiring a virtual assistant or thinking about becoming one, the market in 2025 is full of potential. Businesses are becoming more open to remote support models, and experienced VAs are in high demand.
At Lily Shippen, we believe in building real relationships. That means understanding both our clients and our virtual assistants and making introductions that lead to long-term success. If you're looking to explore VA support or take your first steps into becoming a VA, we're here to help.
