A few years ago, only select industries could afford to enable remote assistance work or internet marketing services for their companies, making virtual work relatively uncommon. However, the landscape changed dramatically with the 2020 global pandemic, leading countries to enforce lockdowns to stem the transmission of COVID-19. As companies comply with government-imposed restrictions that include limited physical movement and social distancing, remote work became the temporary solution.

In a short period, companies that had never considered adopting remote work operations embraced this new work trend, facilitated by digital technologies. The shift was not seamless, as change, in any way, is prone to challenges and resistance. However, it had to be done promptly to ensure the continuity of business operations amidst the economic slowdown.

The pandemic sped up the virtual work trend that enabled businesses to sustain operations amidst the health crisis. Various brick-and-mortar establishments transitioned to online platforms to deliver essential products and services to people confined to their homes. Online digital marketing companies thrived, assisting brands in creating their digital marketing strategies to expand their reach to more customers. Among the most sought-after virtual job opportunities were roles for IT professionals, graphic designers, writers, virtual assistants, customer service representatives, technical support, and accountants.

With most people actively engaged in social media, business owners seized the opportunity to capitalize on its popularity. Real estate companies, brokers, and agents recognized the growth potential and strategically employed social media for real estate purposes. They harnessed the power of social media platforms to showcase their property listings, reach out to potential buyers, nurture leads, and foster relationships with buyers. They hired the services of remote employees such as real estate virtual assistants, social media managers, and freelancers.

Empowered by the internet and digital technology, professionals and talented individuals leveraged their skills, hobbies, and passion and transitioned into online entrepreneurs. Platforms such as virtual assistant services websites have emerged as preferred sites for these new business owners searching for virtual personal assistants to help them grow their businesses.

Even as the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, remote work remains prevalent. Owing to the success of technologies for online project management, videoconferencing, screen sharing, and file sharing, it is now more apparent that virtual work has become a viable option for companies willing to explore flexible business approaches. For employees, it offers a way to work beyond the confines of a traditional office.

Business executives are divided in their approach to remote work. While major companies imposed an in-office employment policy for their employees in 2023 and 2024, it is important to note that some have embraced flexible or hybrid work schedules. In these arrangements, employees spend two or three days per week in the office. This flexibility is also adopted by certain employers as a strategy to attract new talent seeking flexibility in their work schedules.

Regarding businesses created to capitalize on virtual work opportunities, they continue to flourish now that the world has returned to the pre-pandemic level of economic activity. These companies, including virtual assistant agencies, top digital marketing companies, and various online service providers, operate with completely remote teams. Business owners manage their operations from home offices or co-working spaces rather than requiring traditional office spaces, heavy infrastructures, or complex equipment.

These businesses not only thrive but are also expanding operations to accommodate a growing number of job seekers. Owners are supported by a remote team of virtual personal assistants, social media managers, digital marketers, virtual bookkeepers, and other freelancers. These individuals work from diverse locations, such as their homes, cafes, or places with reliable internet access.

One advantage of operating a virtual business is the flexibility it provides entrepreneurs in scaling up their operations. For instance, if a real estate company seeks to attract more customers, they can simply hire Lead Generation Specialists with the directive to “generate more leads for my business,” without the need to be concerned about expanding office space or acquiring additional equipment to accommodate new hires.