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With prospects, we often have to help them overcome the considerations they’re making before taking us on. “What can I delegate?” “How do we communicate?” But we know that most businesses like yours thrive from using a virtual assistant, because we can help you to free up your time by taking on the tasks that you or your team are too busy for - so you can focus on the important aspects of running your business.
In order to maximise your relationship with your virtual assistant, follow our five top tips.
1. Define your objectives
What would you like to achieve by having a virtual assistant? Clearly define how to complete a task and what the overall goal is. This will help your virtual assistant deliver exactly what you require.
Think about the following:
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What problem(s) are you trying to solve?
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What is the desired result?
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What does the VA need to know to complete the task?
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How should they communicate with you?
2. Have an onboarding process
A good VA will be able to get the ground running quickly, but it's beneficial to provide a brief induction process, similarly to how you would for an employee. Your VA will need access to things such as your processes, login details and key contacts, so spend some time collating these together to ensure the handover is as smooth as can be.
3. Good communication is key
Communication is crucial in getting the most from your VA. Try to be available to answer quick questions, especially at the beginning, in order for your VA to deliver the set tasks quickly and efficiently. This can still be in the way that works best for you, whether it’s by setting up a WhatsApp group, or via email.
4. Have regular catch-ups
Touching base regularly will be beneficial for both you and your VA. Discussing your most pressing needs and your goals will help your VA to understand what to prioritise and flag up with you.
It's also a good opportunity to provide feedback. Let your VA know what is working well and what could be changed/improved. Everyone works differently, so by offering constructive feedback, you’re giving them the opportunity to fine tune their working style to fit with you.
5. Avoid micromanaging
If you follow the above steps, an experienced VA will be able to deliver. Just make an effort to ensure you don’t micromanage them. Try to stick with your agreed tasks and checkpoints. Changing things throughout a task or frequently checking up on your VA can add unnecessary time onto a task.
By spending a small amount of time on the above tasks, you can truly maximise the support that your virtual assistant will bring to your business. If you’d like to learn more about getting the best value from a VA, please get in touch. We are more than happy to advise.
