It can be a very daunting feeling. Knowing that you have so much work to do, and you never quite seem to get it done, but also finding someone you can trust to help you. You've heard about people using a Virtual Assistant (VA), but you've also heard some horror stories, and you want to make sure you don't become a horror story yourself. So, just how do you start down the VA road, and how do you make sure you end up with a GREAT Virtual Assistant, not a horror story, so not just a good Virtual Assistant, but someone who you truly can depend on?
There are a few tips and tricks' that will allow you stay well away from the virtual assistant horror zone'.
One of the first things you need to do when considering a Virtual Assistant is know what sort of work you want done. You will need to know your Why, How and What. They are the 3 most important things you need to have clear in your head. If you have this sorted, then it will make the search, and the right fit so much easier!
When you start searching for your Virtual Assistant, decide on whether you want to use a company that specializes in Virtual Assistant work, or finding a Virtual Assistant that is a sole trader. There are benefits to both ways of searching. The path you take to finding your perfect Virtual Assistant is a personal one, and will entirely depend on how hands on' you want to be with the process.
If you're budget conscious, you should work out how much bang for your buck' you will get with any VA that you look to engage. If you go with the cheapest one, you'll most likely spend more time managing that VA to get the outcome you need, and you will have a bitter experience. If someone is expensive, get them to prove to you why. Always look for testimonials, or even ask for references.
When you engage a VA you should always conduct an interview' you will be working closely with this person, and you want to make sure they are the right fit' for your company. The initial chat should always be free, and they should be able to come back to you with a proposal on how they can fit in with you to relieve your pressure, and why they think they would be the right choice for you.
If you know someone who uses a great VA, ask them to put you in touch. The best way to find a great VA sometimes to use one that's already proven themselves to be great from within your network!
