A Virtual Assistant (or simply VA), is an independent contractor providing administrative, technical, or sometimes creative assistance to clients--usually to other independent entrepreneurs and solo and small business practices, such as that of a lawyer or realtor.  Virtual assistants work from their own office (hence "virtual"), thus making it a fairly popular (and growing) profession.  It is estimated that there are about 5,000-8,000 virtual assistants worldwide.  Common modes of communication and data delivery include the Internet, File Transfer Protocol (FTP), and fax machine.  Although the occupation gives a degree of independence, work is on a contractual basis, and a long-lasting cooperation is standard.  Typically 5 years of administrative experience in an office is expected at such positions as executive assistant, secretary, legal assistant, paralegal, legal secretary, real estate assistant, office manager, etc.