Rethinking VA Agencies: A Balanced Perspective from Mel Maw

As part of my ongoing VA series, I’ve covered everything from finding to onboarding virtual assistants, and I’ve been pretty honest about my reservations with VA agencies. However, today I wanted to give you a different perspective. I invited Mel Maw, founder of Lifestyle Virtual Assistant Agency, to discuss the advantages of working with an agency—both for business owners and for the VAs themselves.

The Role of VA Agencies: More Than Just Middlemen

In my own experience, I’ve often advised steering clear of VA agencies, focusing instead on hiring directly. But Mel offers a compelling case for why agencies can be a smart choice for the right business owner. Her agency, Lifestyle VA, specializes in matching clients with VAs who can take over both business and lifestyle tasks—freeing up time and helping entrepreneurs focus on growth.

As Mel explains, “Many business owners wait until they’re already overwhelmed to bring in help. By then, they’re drowning in tasks. That’s where an agency can really step in and offer support.”

Why Agencies Make Sense for Certain Businesses

While I’ve covered in-depth how to find and vet a VA on your own, working with an agency brings a different set of benefits. According to Mel, agencies like hers not only vet and match VAs with clients but also provide ongoing training and support, ensuring the VAs stay up-to-date with the skills the client needs.

Mel adds, “When clients come to us, they’re not just getting a VA; they’re getting a VA who has already been vetted, trained, and is supported by the agency. And if anything goes wrong—whether a VA takes a leave or isn’t the right fit—my agency steps in to make the transition seamless for the client.”

What About Cost?

One of the biggest concerns I’ve had (and voiced) is whether hiring through an agency is more expensive than finding a VA on your own. Mel clears this up by explaining that, in most cases, the cost is about the same.

“You’re essentially paying the same hourly rate whether you hire directly or through an agency,” she says. “The difference is the added layer of support that comes with an agency. You get a backup plan if your VA goes on leave, and you don’t have to start the hiring process from scratch if things don’t work out.”

Protecting VAs from Exploitation

Another point I’ve been critical of in the past is the potential for exploitation in the VA industry—particularly when hiring from less developed countries where VAs are paid a fraction of what they’re worth. Mel acknowledges this issue but emphasizes that not all agencies operate this way.

In her agency, Mel hires mostly UK-based VAs and ensures they are paid fairly. “We pay our VAs a rate that’s in line with industry standards, and they are treated as valued team members, not cheap labor,” Mel explains. “If we ever work with VAs from abroad, we make sure they’re paid fairly for their cost of living.”

A Tailored Fit: Why VA Matching Matters

A key benefit of using an agency that I hadn’t previously considered is the level of care taken to match the right VA with the right client. While I’ve spoken about the importance of finding someone who clicks with your working style, doing this independently can be time-consuming and hit-or-miss.

Mel’s agency specializes in getting this match right. “For me, it’s all about the client-VA fit. I care deeply about making sure both parties are happy,” she says. “I take the time to understand what the client really needs, and I vet my VAs personally to make sure they’re a good match.”

Final Thoughts: Should You Work with a VA Agency?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the idea of hiring, training, and managing a VA on your own, an agency might be the perfect solution. As Mel highlights, it’s not just about handing off tasks; it’s about getting ongoing support to ensure you’re making the most of your VA’s skills and time.

For those of you who may have written off VA agencies as impersonal or expensive, this conversation with Mel should give you some food for thought. While working directly with a VA may work for some, agencies can offer a valuable service—particularly if you’re looking for long-term, high-level support.

Mel Maw is the founder of Lifestyle Virtual Assistant Agency, which provides business and lifestyle support to impact-driven entrepreneurs. You can find her on Threads and Instagram @lifestyleva_agency.

Other Notes From This Episode

• Connect with Lauren @laurengconsulting on Threads and on Instagram.
• Watch this interview and other exclusive content from Lauren Glynn Consulting on YouTube.

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