What To Look Out For When You Hire A Virtual Assistant

23/10/2009

tags: employ a VA, flexibility, hire a VA, working with a VA

Are you thinking of hiring a VA? OK, where do you start? What are your first questions?

Before you go any further you should spend some time making a list and working out how much time you spend on administration tasks and what those tasks are. Many people will be quite surprised at just how long each day or week they spend on administrative tasks. This is definitely not the best use of your valuable time is it?

Write down a list of the most important jobs you will need your VA to be able to do.
Get hold of at least a few VA’s, speak to them on the telephone and if you prefer ask them for a face-to-face meeting. Most (depending on location) will be happy to meet with you to ensure that you are both comfortable working with each other. It is also very important for you both to feel some sort of connection.
Ask for a CV so that you can be sure that the VA has an appropriate level of qualifications and experience to enable her to handle the role you need her to do.
Read her recommendations and referrals carefully – try to contact them if possible.
Remember, cheap is not alwasy the way to go! Sometimes, paying a little more can save you a lot later on when things only need to be done once rather than wasting time having to redo things done carelessly. Look for quality and value in the VA you choose.
Most importantly, discuss all Terms and Conditions, agree on them and ensure that you get a contract signed so as to avoid any nasty little surprises down the line. Most professional VA’s will have a standard contract ready to show you and you will find that many will be flexible on small things if you ask and talk about it with them.