Hey there,
It seems like everyone’s talking about AI lately, it’s everywhere.
As a virtual assistant, I’ve been paying close attention, because let’s be honest — it’s changing how we work.
A potential client recently asked me:
“Do you use AI or are you familiar with it?”
I was caught a little off guard at first, but I was honest with her and told her:
“Yes, I’ve been using ChatGPT to help brainstorm ideas for posts and content. I don’t let AI do my work, but I do let it give me a head start. That’s about all I know but I’m willing to learn more.”
As I thought about it later, I realized that I also use tools like Grammarly to check my newsletter grammar and Canva to help create graphics for my social media.
Those platforms both use AI as part of their service.
AI has helped me more than I’d realized.
She appreciated the transparency and sent me a link to a Small Business Association (SCORE) webinar on AI called “AI Marketing 101: Demystifying Artificial Intelligence for Beginners,” that was actually very good.
Having this conversation made me realize something:
It’s not about AI replacing VAs. It’s about VAs knowing how to use AI wisely.
When Clients Ask About AI
If someone asks if you’re familiar with AI tools, don’t panic.
You don’t need to know everything — you just need to show that you’re:
- Open to learning
- Already exploring it in ways that support your clients
- Focused on using it responsibly, not robotically
In my case, after that conversation, I decided to keep learning and even enrolled in a course on Udemy.
The more I understand AI, the better I can serve and guide my clients.
In the future, I may also sign up for THIS AI workshop taught by a friend of mine, Monique Salomon, for business owners.
Use AI to Boost Your Work — Not Replace It
Here’s the key:
AI should enhance your skills, not take over your tasks.
Think of it like a digital assistant for the assistant.
Here’s how I’ve been using it:
- Grammarly AI: to polish up newsletter drafts
- Canva AI: to quickly design branded graphics
- ChatGPT: to brainstorm topic ideas, headlines, and content outlines
It saves me time — but I’m still the one doing the work, adding the personal touch, and making sure it aligns with my voice and the client’s needs.
What Clients Still Want (That AI Can’t Do)
No matter how “smart” a tool is, clients still need:
- A real human connection
- A deep understanding of their unique business
- Reliability and judgment — not just suggestions
- Consistency, intuition, and care
AI can suggest a caption, but only you know if that caption makes sense for your client’s tone or audience.
How You Can Stay Relevant in the Age of AI
Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Keep learning — Enroll in a workshop, test a new tool, or watch a YouTube tutorial.
- Choose tools that fit your services — You don’t need to use everything.
- Position yourself as “tech-friendly,” not “tech-run” — You use the tools; they don’t use you.
- Lead with the value you bring — Your presence, your processes, and your personal touch are what set you apart.
Clients aren’t just hiring a task-ticker
They’re hiring someone who can think, solve problems, and support their business — AI included, but not in charge.
Final Thoughts
AI isn’t here to steal your job — it’s here to sharpen your skills.
If you’re curious, if you’re willing to learn, and if you know how to show up with heart, there’s room for you in this new tech-savvy world.
This advice isn’t just for virtual assistants; it’s for all business owners.
Here’s the big takeaway:
Let AI elevate what you do, not take over what you do.
So, here’s what I want you to do this week:
*Try out one new AI tool you’ve been curious about — Grammarly, ChatGPT, Canva AI, whatever feels manageable.
*Then ask yourself: “How can this support my services, not define them?”
And if you ever feel stuck or want to swap notes on what’s working — hit reply or click on the “Let’s talk about AI” link.
I’d love to hear how you’re navigating the AI wave.
You’ve got this,
