a virtual office assistant is an independent contract worker who provides administrative, creative or technical services. Often that means handling the same types of tasks as an office secretary or manager, but doing them from a home office, using the virtual assistant's own computer equipment, software, phone and Internet connection [source: International Virtual Assistants Association].
Here are some of the general tasks that an office assistant may do in a virtual office:
Manage contact lists and customer spreadsheets
Maintain a calendar and set up meetings
Take transcription and handle correspondence
Make travel arrangements
Handle billing and accounting
Prepare and send out e-mail newsletters
Prepare, collate and ship proposals and meeting materials
Send out requested information to customers
Handle client inquiries by phone or e-mail