Virtual assistant vs Virtual AI – the inside scoop
Have you been thinking about getting help to grow and expand your business but find the choices a bit confusing? AI vs VA, VR vs AR, the list goes on!
We are VAs – real human assistants who work virtually/remotely. AIs are artificial intelligence automation technology, e.g. chatbots. But what are the fundamental differences in capability and what do they mean to you?
Advantages if using a virtual assistant:
- Human support will be able to complete more tasks independently
- You create a strong working relationship
- Scalability – adaptable to your current needs
- The ability to discuss issues and find solutions and workarounds
- Online presence – posting on your social media with relevant updates
- You can outsource things like email management, phone calls, event management, customer contact, bookings, content writing – things that require human interaction
Disadvantages if using a virtual assistant:
- Most VAs will also have other client commitments (we recommend working with a company that has a team to avoid this issue – like us!)
- Your VA will take need to take holidays now and again (as above, we recommend you work with a company that has a team)
- You do need to interview and find the right person with the right skillsets
Advanatges of using AI:
- Robotic accuracy
- Unbiased customer service
- Long term reduced costs
- Can perform repetitive tasks without compromise
- AI does not need breaks or holidays
Disadvanatges of using AI:
- Lack of human contact – machines cannot use ‘their judgement’
- Costly to set up the service – buying the tech and hiring people to install, troubleshoot and provide training
- Unlike a human, AI technology does not ‘learn’ or improve with experience
- Lack of ability to think outside the box with a solution-based approach
- Your customers may need to rephrase questions several times to get the right answer (causes frustration)
- Your customers will wait in a virtual queue to ‘speak’ to an adviser
