Your performance as an entrepreneur is based on primary premises: your time, and your energy. When you choose to handle every task that passes your desk by yourself, you become less productive, less profitable, and more stressed out because some important things are left behind. High-priority responsibilities slip by the wayside, and you wind up with busywork or more repetitive tasks that are a waste of your precious time.
Entrepreneurs often asked for practical advice about how companies, businesses, and organizations should for a virtual assistant. Hiring a virtual assistant is a major decision to make and bring big changes to your business so this is something you should really think about.
Sure, getting support from a virtual assistant is beneficial to a business. However you also have a role to play too to make so this partnership can work. In fact, the success of this relationship will depend on you — how you will guide your virtual assistant transition in your business.
If you have zero idea on where to start try first to determine what, when, and why you need a virtual assistant. Be crystal clear on the following points:
- The tasks that I have no idea how to do.
- The tasks that you have no time to do.
- The tasks that you do not want to do.
- The tasks that only you can do.
Your virtual assistant can be extremely helpful to you and your business. Starting with a solid basis and shared awareness is critical to your mutual success.
Preparing for a Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant is an investment for your business. As mentioned earlier, the success of your partnership will depend on you. When you prepare for your “investment” you will increase the chance of achieving your targeted goals.
- Make a list of tasks you need to delegate.
You have probably already shared your expectations with your virtual assistant after your initial appointment, so it’s crucial to have the priority list up to date for a quick overview for each of you when you proceed to delegate tasks. And if you’re just starting with one or two projects, it’s a good idea to let your virtual assistant know what else is on the horizon. A competent virtual assistant can organize a set of projects in a project management framework to guarantee that nothing slips between the holes.
Do not forget to recognize your central ability and distribute low-payoff tasks. This will help you to spend your valuable resources on important business functions and focus on why you hire a virtual assistant in the first place.
- Structure your systems and processes.
Create a list of your regular duties that you believe you are falling behind with. Make an instruction, maybe a video or written guide, on “how to” complete tasks so that your virtual assistant can carry on certain tasks for you quickly.
Then ask yourself if these tasks can be delegated on a regular, weekly, or monthly basis? How often would you need reporting and updates on these tasks? What other things should you cross off your to-do list?
- Consider creating clear instructions.
Setting down clear and concise instructions as you intend to walk your virtual assistant through the tasks will give your virtual assistant an understanding precisely what you require for.
The more straightforward you are with the instructions, the quicker the virtual assistant will be prepared to get started. The more details and specifics you include, the less mistakes and understanding there would be. If possible to provide a timeline, then do it.
- Decide on your preferred and most productive tool of remote collaboration.
What platform will you use to communicate with each other? How will you share files with your team? Prepare to use a variety of web-based platforms to support with communications, social media, and project management.
An effective and accessible tool will definitely help your communication and collaboration with your virtual assistant be more productive.
- Give feedback.
It is recommended to check in with your virtual assistant at the outset of the partnership to provide feedback on the work that they have done. Constructive feedback on what you want to modify and advise on what is exactly on course is useful to your virtual assistant so they will have insights on the business’ processes and community.
Entrepreneurs and business owners will benefit from the services of a virtual assistant. You may not be ready right now, but it is just a matter of time when you actually need one.
If you are ready to hire a virtual assistant but too occupied to follow the preparations mentioned above, let us set up a meeting and learn how VALUE Virtual Assistants can set everything up for you.
Let us find your virtual assistant. For more information and inquiries, contact info@value-va.com. For more contents like this, connect with us on our Linked In and Facebook Page.
