As I begin the process of working with a Virtual Assistant, I am now embarking on the journey of picking out the right one. Like real-world assistants, virtual assistants all have their own areas of expertise, and/or specialty, and it is important that you choose the right person for the job. Moreover, because this will be a virtual relationship, hiring a virtual assistant can be harder than hiring a real-world assistant, after all you may never meet this person face to face, or even have a phone conversation with them. The right virtual assistant should be a person whose skills and personality are a fit with yours, not just whoever has an opening or charges the least.
Here are some tips in choosing the right virtual assistant for your job:
- Find the right person. One of the most important parts in finding a virtual assistant is finding someone you “click” with personally. Look for someone who is friendly, enthusiastic, and enjoys your industry/line of work.
- Make sure you know exactly what you want your virtual assistant to do. By setting up an action plan, you can look for assistants that have skills or qualifications to match your needs.
- Make sure your virtual assistant candidates carry themselves with professionalism and courtesy. Does the candidate answer her voicemails and emails from you in a timely manner? Does he/she answer the phone professionally? Does the candidate put you on hold to take another call? These are all things to look at in determining the right person for the job.
- What type of technology skills do the candidates hold? Idealy, you want to work with someone who is proficient in all Microsoft office applications (mac applications if you own a mac), Quickbooks, website content management systems, etc. Most small businesses rely on technology to survive, so you want your assistant to have excellent technological skills.
- Lastly, make sure you review your candidates’ references. Talk to as many as you can to determine which candidate will be the best fit for you.
