If there is one thing that the past few years have shown us, it’s that remote work is here to stay. A recent poll found that 70% of Virtual Assistants reported an increase in new work inquiries, and 45% increased their hourly workload in 2020. Not surprising!
There are far more pros than cons to hiring a Virtual Assistant or Virtual Expert. Finding the right VA can help reduce your workload and costs so that you can focus on growing your bottom line. If you’re hiring your first Virtual Assistant or haven’t worked with one in a while, it’s time to brush up on the modern rules for working with a Virtual Assistant.
Working with a Virtual Assistant:
- Clarify expectations. Misunderstandings can arise among colleagues in the same office. Imagine what it’s like working with someone without any face-to-face contact. Be specific about required tasks and goals—set boundaries related to spending limits and confidential information.
- Document procedures. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are vital in any company. If you don’t already have SOPs, hire a Virtual Assistant to create them for you. Be sure to have your Virtual Assistant document any new responsibilities to keep your SOP library up to date.
- Invest in tools. Technology will make collaboration easier. Shop for software that lets you share documents, manage projects, and communicate efficiently.
- Communicate regularly. Staying in touch may require a more deliberate strategy when you are working remotely. Schedule one-on-one meetings at least once a week. Be sure to let your Virtual Assistant know the best way to reach you with urgent and non-urgent communications.
- Encourage questions. New Virtual Assistants may feel pressured to appear competent. Let them know that you’re happy to answer questions when anything is unclear. (See #4 Communicate Regularly!)
- Provide feedback. Constructive criticism is essential, not only for learning but also to foster a good working relationship. Ensure your comments are timely, specific, actionable, and friendly.
- Start small. Virtual Assistants need onboarding too. If time allows, introduce them gradually to their new role and help them to connect with the bigger picture. Make their first assignment something simple that they can excel at so you can both build trust in the relationship.
- Respect their time. Your Virtual Assistant might have several clients and limited availability. Make the most of your time together by showing up and being prepared for meetings. Respect their time just as you expect them to respect yours.
- Build morale. Team spirit has more to do with the quality of your relationship rather than sharing the same business address. Create a welcoming environment and promote two-way conversations. Give your new Virtual Assistant their own company email and introduce them to your team just as you would any new employee.
Having a good working relationship with your Virtual Assistant will save you time and enable you to focus on tasks that maximize your strengths. Make your time together friendly and productive by choosing an outstanding candidate for the role and following these tips to help each other succeed.
Ready to take back your time and be more productive? Organization is my superpower! Contact Virtual ME Solutions today to learn how I can help you grow your business.
