From Vision to Reality

Building the Foundation for a Virtual Assistant Engagement

Hiring a full or part time virtual assistant can be one of the most critical assets to your business, but to ensure that you get the absolute best your assistant has to offer, work must be done before you even make a hiring decision.

Goals

What do you need to make this engagement a successful one? Email management, maybe scheduling? Knowing this information will make the next step a breeze while deciding exactly what tasks you would like to offload to your assistant. By determining the goals for your assistant, you will make a clear path to achieving yours. It will also help determine if you need a full time or part time virtual assistant.

Assess Your Workday

Take a moment to assess your workday. What tasks need to be done at a certain time? Are there projects only you can work on? What job do you want to delegate first? Once you’ve made that decision, then you need to document the steps. If you don’t already have some form of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) in place, then some form of instruction must be created, whether it be a simple document outlining the steps or a video showing how to complete the task. Having this information ready will ensure a smooth transition of duties to your assistant.

We understand that while running a successful and fast-growing business, there may not be time to prepare SOPs. That’s the reason you need an assistant in the first place, right?

Therefore, if creating SOPs is out of the question, then it’s imperative that you find time in your schedule to work with your VA for training. While many virtual assistants are skilled in many areas, no one knows your business the way you do. Passing on that information would be invaluable to your VA and would put your business on the path to further success.

Communication and Expectations

Communication plays a pivotal role in any relationship, and this is especially true when it comes to working with your assistant. Establishing clear lines of communication right from the start is crucial for ensuring a successful and productive partnership. Defining your communication preferences and expectations early on when working with an assistant can set the tone for a smooth and efficient working relationship. Effective communication allows both parties to understand each other’s needs, priorities, and goals, ultimately improving productivity and mutual satisfaction.

There is no instant response.

Many Solopreneurs/Business owners new to virtual assistant services think it’s the same as having someone in person while you work. Most virtual assistants have a few clients. We’re not saying you won’t get an answer for a week, but they will not be at your beck and call. Think of them more as specialists, giving them tasks and letting them do what they do best. Most of the time, you will never know a great Virtual assistant is even there. They take the weight of your day-to-day so you can do what you do best. That is why outlining communication early on is paramount.

Navigating your virtual assistant journey is an exciting and transformative experience for any business. With the steps outlined in this guide, you can redefine the way you work and unlock new heights of productivity and growth. Through clear communication, careful planning, and a commitment to collaboration, you can harness the full potential of your virtual assistant and embrace the future of work.