Employing a Virtual Assistant
A lot of business owners seek the services of a virtual assistant without really knowing exactly what to look for. As a result, they may become confused in regard to just what the outsourcing marketplace has to offer, and they are likely to end up with an unsatisfactory match. For those who are planning to hire a virtual assistant, be certain that you implement the following five principles:
#1: Do not hire a virtual assistant without a testing period. For example, let’s say you need a virtual assistant well versed in monetary matters. Don’t just retain the first person that offers his / her service at the rates that you find attractive. Give her or him a test project, so you’ll be able to assess his ability before you decide whether to hire. In this manner, you’ll not end up in an untenable situation since for having chosen a virtual assistant who cannot do the job to your satisfaction.
#2 Know what office hours your assistant is willing to work. As an example, let’s say you wish to hire someone who attends to your “office” in the evening hours. In this situation, you’ll want to hire somebody from a specific time zone (or at least someone willing to work the same hours that you do). Additionally you should make certain that the number of hours they’ll be working per week are enough to complete the tasks you need done.
#3 Check out what days your virtual assistant will NOT be working. For instance, will they work five days per week? Or six? Which holidays will they observe? Do they offer any services on Sundays, weekends, on given holidays, and so forth.
#4 Will you have the ability to reach them in an emergency situation? As an example, in the event you urgently want something copied, typed, or faxed, can you get in contact with your virtual assistant even during non-office hours, the task can be accomplished? If it’s very important to have the ability to reach your virtual assistant whenever you will need him or her, then you will need to make certain that he or she understands that and is in agreeable to the idea.
#5 Does his or her personal demeanor mesh with yours? While on the surface you may think this not very important, it actually is! The virtual assistant represents your company, and therefore must be able to represent you and your organization appropriately. Moreover, you should have the ability to mesh positively with him or her so as to create a close business relationship.
Other than the above mentioned 5 rules, you also need to determine whether or not your potential virtual assistant has the technological skills to support your business. The optimum circumstance would be if he has a broadband Internet connection, with connectivity that also includes a cell (mobile) phone, so you can be in contact as frequently as necessary.
It isn’t really tough to settle on a good assistant once you employ the above 5 tips to the task. You should not be reluctant to pay a fair salary to a deserving person. Bear in mind, their assistance will enable you to promote your company in the most efficient way, provided that he or she is satisfied with their pay.
It’s well worth your while to nurture a mutually satisfying business relationship with your virtual assistant. He or she may be with you for many years to come!
