How to Find the Right Virtual Assistant for Your Business: 5 Key Steps
So it is time to take the first step in streamlining your business and outsourcing your to-do list. Those few extra hours are just moments away.
Finding your first Virtual Assistant is an exciting next step and this article will help simplify the process.
Virtual Assistants can transform your business by undertaking administrative and tech-focused tasks. 67% of business owners sourced at least one virtual assistant in 2021, with more people realising the impact of improving their workflow (1).
However, you need to ensure you’re getting the help of the right virtual assistant for your business, so where do you start? Follow these 5 key steps and source your perfect VA.
How to Find the Right VA: The 5 Key Steps
Finding a VA is an important decision. You can streamline your business and make your life less stressful!
Outsourcing administrative help is an easy way to develop your business whilst gaining time for yourself, and your team.
1. Why Do You Want to Use a Virtual Assistant?
What do you hope to achieve by sourcing support from a virtual assistant?
The right VA means you get to spend more time with your family. Or gain an extra afternoon to create space and work on your business strategy.
Determine what your goal is by working with a VA, and what that would mean for you and your business. Start thinking about how it would feel and what you would do with the extra time.
2. Which Tasks Will You Outsource?
The next step is to determine what tasks are draining your time and impacting your workflow the most.
Is your inbox out of control? Are you spending way too long chasing invoices every week?
Do you know you need to set up that new automation tool or make more of your email contact list but never get around to doing it?
Note down all these tasks and track how long they take you. You can work out the time you would save with the help of finding a VA. You can also get super clear on what sort of help you need.
Once you have your list, take a look at what sort of person could achieve these things. If most tasks look like website updates, newsletter creation and social media scheduling, you'll want someone with great tech skills.
If you find that diary management and arranging meetings affect your workflow, finding a VA with clear communication and organisation skills will be essential.
Most Virtual Assistants already have excellent management, administrative and organisational skillsets. But getting clear on who can help you the best and which tasks you can outsource will make the process easier for both of you.
3. What Experience Does Your VA Have?
Now you're clear on what hiring a VA could look like, it's time to research and refine your potential candidates.
Ask other trusted business contacts if they work with anyone they would refer and what that VA does for their business. Check out websites and rates so you are clear on what you can expect.
Make sure you have a meeting with your possible virtual assistant to find out their previous experience. Ask for examples of different work-based situations and see if they have any ideas for improving your company's workflow.
Why not see if there are any platforms that they love working with that you do not currently use? Once they are familiar with the systems you use, this can save a lot of time. This will also show you which virtual assistants are most proactive too.
4. Are Your Personalities a Good Match?
Finding the right VA isn't just about getting the work done. You want to feel secure and understood by anyone you bring into your business. Things like how you communicate are key to the success of the working relationship.
You want a Virtual Assistant who not only cares about the job they're doing but also cares about your business (2).
5. Is Your VA Within Budget?
Finding the right Virtual Assistant includes sourcing someone within your budget. VA's operate from various price points dependent on their experience and industry expertise.
Take your time to research and see which services and price points work for you and go from there.
If you are thinking about finding a VA or have any questions about which services you require, get in contact with Victoria to learn more. Email hello@tailoredva.com and discover what sourcing a VA could mean for your business.
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