11 Things to Look For in a Virtual Assistant
A thorough comprehension of the position and the many abilities necessary is essential before hiring a virtual assistant.
A thorough comprehension of the position and the many abilities necessary is essential before hiring a virtual assistant. There is a vast range of work that can be done by a virtual assistant company, from managing several clients to making sure business owners get the help they need. Knowledge of a virtual assistant's most important traits and abilities can help you hire the best individual for the job, whether you need someone to answer phones or provide online customer care for your company.
What is the Role of a Virtual Assistant?
A virtual assistant does administrative tasks for several clients while working from home. A typical administrative assistant's duties are comparable to those of a secretary. However, working from home gives individuals greater leeway regarding the schedule and other workplace factors.
Content creation for the company blog and data entry into a database are two examples of routine jobs. Virtual assistant work might be short (e.g., a few hours a week) or permanent (every day).
Expertise From Top VAs
Here are some of the most important traits to look for in a virtual assistant.
Communication
Regardless of their level of expertise, a competent virtual assistant will have stellar communication skills. Emails, reports, presentations, and phone conversations are standard business communication methods. Thus having strong verbal and written communication skills is essential. An ability to express oneself clearly in writing will always come in handy.
Project Managing
A virtual assistant's project management skills may include, but are not limited to, the following areas:
- Strategy development and implementation
- Project assistance
- Email and content marketing
- Online support (including website maintenance)
Management of Time
A good assistant should have excellent time management skills. They need to be organized and capable of setting priorities to get everything done on time.
IT Experience
Since much VA work now takes place online, proficiency in using computers and other electronic devices is a must. Ability with Microsoft Office products, especially PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Word, is a plus.
Attention to Detail
The ability to multitask is essential for virtual assistants, as is a keen eye for detail. Since a VA often juggles multiple projects at once, they must consistently deliver excellent results.
Solid Decision Making
Practical decision-making skills are essential for virtual assistants because they frequently must solve problems on the fly. When a business owner can't address a virtual assistant's inquiries or concerns, the VA must exercise judgment to determine the best action or devise creative alternatives. When a problem emerges, a VA may need to act quickly and show that they can process information quickly.
Willing to Learn
As a virtual assistant, you'll constantly be learning new things; therefore, a thirst for knowledge is essential. An assistant should be receptive to criticism and always look for better ways to organize and prioritize their work to meet the company's objectives and key performance indicators.
Self-Motivated
Virtual assistants, like real ones, need to be disciplined to succeed. Working remotely demands drive, especially when there are deadlines to meet. Depending on the hours you require an assistant to work, the ability to stick to a routine will be crucial.
Customer Service
An exceptional level of customer service is required of any assistant who interacts with clients or customers. They must be able to keep their cool under pressure, communicate clearly over the phone and in writing, and go the extra mile to make customers feel welcome. Hiring a virtual assistant (VA) who appreciates the significance of providing excellent customer service to a company and its clientele is essential.
Data Entry
As data entry is a regular VA activity, using word processing software effectively is crucial. Virtual assistants may be asked to prepare documents, organize files, conduct research, transcribe audio or video, or clean up data. To be useful as a virtual assistant, fast typing speed is a must, especially if you will be handling data entry.
Trustworthy
The ideal virtual assistant (VA) would be reliable in showing up for work, delivering on their promised services, and adapting to new responsibilities as your business evolves. Your virtual assistant (VA) will be responsible for critical work, such as updating you on their progress and how it relates to your objectives. When you have a trustworthy helper, you can be assured that they will be there for you whenever you need them.
Ready to Find the Best Virtual Assistant For Your Company?
Capitano Inc. can help you find a qualified virtual assistant that has extensive experience in administrative and office tasks. We have a carefully vetted pool of applicants ready to be introduced to exceptional businesses like yours. Don't hesitate to contact us immediately so we can discuss your needs and how we may be of assistance.
