You are either looking at hiring a virtual assistant or have just done so but you haven’t utilized an employee or contractor through an exclusively virtual format. How do you manage them?
We will examine some best practices on how to proceed through the unfamiliar territory of virtual assistant services. The keys are the same as applied to traditional employees: communication, organization, process and procedure.
Communication
Communication is essential with any employee, but is especially critical when working with a virtual assistant. Set expectations for frequency and preferred format (email, phone, video conference, etc.) right at the beginning. An experienced virtual office assistant will prompt you for this information from their end.
This isn’t the only time you can expect to speak to your virtual assistant, it merely sets a base line. With this basic communication schedule in place, you and your virtual know what to expect. Not setting a communication frequency will leave either you or the personal virtual assistant, or both, in the dark.
Organization
Organization of data and materials which your virtual assistant will need to complete their tasks is also key. If you have to make unscheduled communication with your virtual assistant to disseminate information that is needed to complete work, you are not only hampering their efficiency but yours as well.
There is no coworker for the virtual to walk over to to receive their new task. Therefore, the more organized your work is the more productive your virtual can be.
Process and Procedure
A company with good process and procedures are ensuring that tasks are performed effectively. With these in place you can make sure that repetitive tasks will achieve the desired results. Even if it is not a repetitive task a general outline on how to proceed is extremely helpful.
Process and Procedure is often the last thing a small business owner or entrepreneur wants to do, but knows they need to be done. If you do not have a process and procedure, take the time to create them or have your virtual personal assistant write them so you have visibility on how they are proceeding.
Managing Virtuals
Managing a virtual assistant is not much different that managing a traditional employee. The only real difference is the absence of in-person communication. The nuances required to make sure they have all the tools needed to perform assigned tasks actually lend themselves to creating better efficiency within your business.
Not only will you set up your personal virtual assistant for success, you will likely discover and create ways to maximize the efforts of everyone involved.
If hiring a virtual assistant for your business has become an necessity please schedule a FREE Discovery Call with us so that we can learn more about your needs and how we can help.
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