Virtual assistants (VAs) have become an integral part of the modern workforce, offering valuable support to businesses and individuals alike. While the majority of VAs are honest and skilled professionals, like in any industry, there may be a few who resort to dishonest tactics to gain clients or retain their business.
In this blog, we will shed light on some common lies that VAs may tell and provide tips on how to avoid falling for them, ensuring you partner with trustworthy and reliable virtual assistants.
The lies they tell.
People often lie when applying for a job, with the main motive being to secure the position. Even individuals lacking education can skillfully manipulate their responses to match what they believe the employer wants to hear.
Virtual assistants are no exception to this behavior, as they may deceive you by exaggerating their qualifications, tailoring their values to align with yours, or attempting to win your favor. Essentially, VAs will say anything they believe will increase their chances of being hired. Understanding these common lies and tactics can help you detect and uncover their deceitful strategies.
Lie 1: “I Have Extensive Experience in All Fields”
The Truth: While some VAs possess a broad range of skills and knowledge, it’s impossible for any individual to be an expert in every field. Be cautious of VAs who claim to excel in areas beyond their expertise. Instead, focus on VAs who are upfront about their strengths and can demonstrate relevant experience through portfolios or testimonials. Look for VAs with specialized skills that align with your specific needs to ensure high-quality support.
Lie 2: “I Can Work 24/7 Without Breaks”
The Truth: VAs, like any other professionals, need time for rest and personal commitments. Claiming to work round the clock without breaks is unrealistic and may lead to burnout or compromised performance. It’s essential to set clear expectations regarding working hours and ensure that your VA maintains a healthy work-life balance. Open communication and a reasonable workload contribute to a sustainable and productive working relationship.
Lie 3: “I Have No Other Clients – You’ll Be My Sole Focus”
The Truth: Ethical VAs are likely to have multiple clients to sustain their business. While they should allocate sufficient time and attention to your tasks, claiming to have no other clients may indicate a lack of demand or unreliability. Instead, focus on VAs who can manage their workload efficiently, meet deadlines consistently, and maintain open channels of communication, even with multiple clients.
Lie 4: “I Can Guarantee Immediate Results”
The Truth: Promising immediate results without understanding your business or project is misleading. VAs should take the time to comprehend your goals, expectations, and the scope of the tasks involved before providing realistic timelines. Avoid VAs who promise quick fixes or immediate success, as genuine progress often requires time, effort, and collaboration.
Lie 5: “I Don’t Need a Contract – Let’s Just Keep It Casual”
The Truth: Establishing a formal contract is essential for both parties to clarify expectations, deliverables, payment terms, and confidentiality agreements. A lack of a contract leaves both you and the VA vulnerable to potential misunderstandings and disputes. Professional VAs should be comfortable signing a contract as it protects their interests as well.
Lie 6: “I Have a Vast Network of High-Profile Contacts”
The Truth: While some VAs may have connections in various industries, beware of those who promise access to exclusive networks or high-profile contacts without evidence. A VA’s primary role is to support you with administrative tasks and specialized skills, not to offer magical connections. Rely on VAs who are transparent about their professional network and can provide references if needed.
Spot the lying VAs.
Spotting lying virtual assistants can be challenging, but by paying attention to certain red flags and conducting thorough assessments, you can increase the likelihood of identifying dishonest candidates. Here are some tips to help you spot lying virtual assistants:
Verify their claims.
Request references, portfolios, or samples of their previous work to verify their skills and experience. Contact their references to get an idea of their professionalism, reliability, and the quality of their work.
Look for inconsistencies.
Pay attention to any inconsistencies in their communication, such as conflicting information about their background, skills, or experience. Lying virtual assistants may struggle to maintain a consistent narrative.
Check for online presence.
Search for the virtual assistant’s online presence, including social media profiles, websites, and professional platforms. Look for any signs of unprofessional behavior or discrepancies that raise concerns.
Assess their communication style.
Pay attention to how they communicate during the interview process and in written interactions. Lying virtual assistants may be evasive, provide vague answers, or hesitate when asked direct questions.
Trust your instincts.
If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your gut. If a virtual assistant is making unrealistic promises or guarantees, it might be a sign of dishonesty.
Ask for credentials.
For specialized tasks such as marketing, design, or technical work, request evidence of relevant certifications or qualifications. This helps ensure that they possess the necessary expertise.
Establish clear expectations.
Set clear expectations regarding communication, deadlines, and deliverables from the beginning. A lying virtual assistant may struggle to meet these expectations consistently.
Key Takeaway
Virtual Assistants can be invaluable assets to businesses and individuals, streamlining operations and freeing up valuable time. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential lies some VAs may tell to avoid falling into untrustworthy partnerships. To find the right VA, focus on transparency, genuine expertise, open communication, and a willingness to establish a formal contract. Partnering with VALUE Virtual Assistants can significantly reduce the risk of hiring someone who may not be honest about their capabilities or intentions.
