Things to Consider Before You Hire a Virtual Assistant
There appears to be a growing trend, in the business world with the term ” assistant” being used frequently. Were you aware that you can hire someone from a part of the world to work for you at a rate of $8 to $12 per hour while you rest? The virtual assistants I collaborate with all hold degrees except for one who has an MBA in business administration. It’s quite a steal paying her fifteen bucks an hour.
The concept of what defines an assistant has evolved as they have become more prevalent. Based on insights from pioneers and leaders in this role there are clear distinctions on what it means to be a virtual assistant and what it doesn’t entail. It’s essential to adhere to these guidelines when discussing your business with others.
The role of an assistant is now establishing its identity within home-based businesses. All individuals working in this field are expected to meet the same standards as those, for assistants. A virtual assistant is an individual who offers services to individuals and businesses following the industry norms over the past decade.
To grasp the essence of being an assistant it’s crucial to understand the concept of being “virtual.”If you are working remotely or, from home you wouldn’t be considered an assistant but in a temporary or telecommuting position. One of the aspects of being an assistant is having the flexibility to work from any location.
The job description for an assistant focuses on this aspect. Most virtual assistants don’t like being referred to as secretaries or freelancers. Specifically, a freelancer typically works for pay only while a secretary doesn’t work exclusively for one client. Providing a company, with an assistant can lead to establishing an enduring partnership.
When looking for an assistant it’s important to ensure they possess the qualities:
1. Capability:
Does the VA respond promptly and professionally to voicemails, emails and other communications? This person should have the skills to collaborate effectively with you and prevent any delays that could impact deadlines. It’s also advisable to assign them tasks that require punctuality.
2. Project Management:
In today’s paced environment multitasking is essential. We often find ourselves juggling tasks while waiting for the microwave timer to go off.
If someone struggles to handle projects they might opt to move on. You may not realize they have a project management issue until you miss out on an opportunity.
Many individuals juggle more than one job at a time. Employers, like yourself are often part of the assistant (VA) system. The pool of workers diminishes as they secure contracts from online employers. Be prepared for the possibility that both you and your project could be left hanging when the time comes. It’s crucial to have backup VAs lined up. Distributing your workload among two or more VAs can help mitigate this risk.
Tip:
Assign the VA a task before finalizing any contracts. I usually assign two assignments that should take no more than 30 to 40 minutes each to complete. I require everything to be done exactly as specified before considering hiring them. While it may be tempting to hire the candidates who apply it’s advisable to evaluate, at least ten applicants and offer positions to two of them instead. Be mindful of your expenses. Ensure these are objectives you genuinely wish to accomplish.
Gather recommendations
Could you provide me with a list of contacts who can offer insights, on collaborating with the VA or the opposite?
Many virtual assistants aim to stand out by focusing on targeting businesses as partners and transforming them into their ventures. This approach goes beyond the requirements of work or contract assignments showcasing the diverse skill set of a virtual assistant that extends beyond what is typically outlined in traditional job descriptions. Understanding what it truly means to work as an assistant empowers you to navigate these dynamics in your interactions, with companies.