In this ever-expanding digital world – where you can practically run your business remotely from a simple phone or tablet – a new workforce has been sparked: The Virtual Assistant (VA).
Ok, so maybe the idea of a VA isn’t THAT new, but how they are being leveraged and what they can offer has changed dramatically over the last few years. From simple daily tasks to more strategic support like building funnels and growing your social media following, VAs are key to driving the entrepreneurial workforce.
Let’s start by defining what a Virtual Assistant Is…
The high-level definition of a VA is, typically, an individual that is self-employed works remotely and supports businesses with various tasks. They provide their own equipment and software, thus making them a true independent subcontractor.
Most VAs will search for a particular niche – both in what they offer and whom they market to. Some will focus on strictly the administrative side of a business and cater to all industries, where other VAs will pick a particular industry to focus on and offer a very defined set of skills.
So why should you use a Virtual Assistant?
By far one of the greatest reasons for hiring a VA is that they only work when you need them to. Only need support 5 hours a week? Why hire someone full time and potentially have to pay them benefits when you can subcontract out a VA!
Also, their vast knowledge and skill set allows them to start a task with minimal training, especially if you find a VA that specializes in your field. They allow solopreneurs to increase their business production without greatly impacting their overhead. No need to purchase more office space, they work remotely! No need to buy more computers or printers, a VA already has all the equipment!
What can a Virtual Assistant do?
Sometimes it’s hard to define exactly what a VA can do because the list is so vast, but what you need to know is that a VA can support your business in virtually whatever you need help with! The key is to just find the right VA for you that specializes in what you need to help grow your business.
To determine how to get started delegating, click this link for a quick exercise! http://behindthesceneexecs.com/delegating
Want to hire a Virtual Assistant?
Here’s how!
When hiring a VA, it’s important to make sure they fit your personality and style. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Here are some example questions we recommend asking:
- What’s your background/experience and do you have a specific skillset?
- Can you give me some examples of your work?
- How many clients do you typically have at once?
- What are your normal working hours?
- How do you prefer to communicate?
- Can you provide references?
- Do you work on an hourly rate or packages? What is the cost?
Not sure how to even begin working with a virtual assistant? Try this quick excercise by clicking here.