Understanding What a Virtual Assistant Can Do:
The term “Virtual Assistant” is becoming increasingly popular in the business world. It’s fascinating to think that you can employ someone from another part of the world who works during your off-hours, potentially for just $8-$12 an hour. Many of the VAs I’ve collaborated with are highly educated, with one even holding an MBA in Business Administration. At $15.00 per hour, her services offer incredible value.
The rise of virtual assistants has reshaped the definition of the role. Pioneers and innovators in this field have clearly demarcated what being a virtual assistant entails, and what it doesn’t. When introducing your business, it’s essential to uphold this standard.
The role of a virtual assistant has evolved into a clearly defined home-based business in recent years. Those in this profession are anticipated to adhere to established standards, ensuring consistency and quality in the services they provide. Over the past decade, the standards for virtual assistants have become formalized, and they now offer a diverse range of services to both businesses and individuals.
A virtual assistant (VA) primarily operates remotely, distinguishing it from traditional roles that demand physical presence. The essence of being “virtual” implies flexibility in one’s workspace, often from home or any desired location. This feature differentiates VAs from those in temporary or telecommuting roles.
Furthermore, VAs are not just simple secretaries or freelancers. While the term “freelancer” suggests sporadic, extra-income work and “secretary” might imply limited scope and temporary engagements, a VA typically offers more than that. Virtual assistants emphasize forging long-lasting and meaningful relationships with their clients, offering consistent support tailored to the needs of the business. Labeling a VA as merely a secretary or a freelancer undersells their potential and the depth of their engagement.
Here are 5 things you should consider in a virtual assistant
1. Professionalism
Does the VA answer her or his emails, voicemails and other correspondence in a timely and professional manner? It is important if this person is to work for you has the right skills to not keep you or a deadline waiting. Make sure you give a covert task to her or him to pass that shows commitment to deadlines.
2. Project Management
Juggling tasks nowadays is vital. We now tap out feet in front of the microwave so things need to get done. If a person cannot work with a few projects on the go you might want to move on. I guarantee you will only find out that they have a project management problem when you lose “the big deal”.
3. Availability
Many of these people work for several people at the same time. It is not uncommon for you as an employer to be in a funnel system for the VA. You slowly move down the funnel as they take on better contracts from new virtual employers. Be aware that you and your project will get dropped at the most time you least need it. You also need to be lining up new VA’s. Try to split your work between 2 or more VA’s to combat this problem.
4. Test
Give the VA a mini project before going ahead with a contract. I also give a minimum of 2 tasks that cost no more than $30 -$40 to complete. I need them done correctly and to my total satisfaction before I even consider this person. It is simple to hire one of the first few people to come along, but please shortlist at least 10 and give the tasks to 2 of the 10 you shortlisted. Obviously make sure these tasks are something you actually want done; don’t just waste any money.
5. Get References
Can the VA give you a list of people whom you can contact who will tell you about working with her or him?
The main distinction that most virtual assistants will work towards creating is the idea of being in a relationship with a business, and making this their business. This goes beyond the Expectations of any temporary work or telecommuting job. It also means that the services a virtual assistant can provide will go outside of job descriptions that are made in the office. By understanding the standards for being a virtual assistant, you can best approach this in your own relationships with businesses.
ALL THE BEST!
