Guide for hiring the most eligible virtual executive assistant

It is not difficult to find a virtual executive assistant these days. The question is how do you end up getting a very capable VA for your business needs? Your first source can be companies that provide different types of virtual assistant services. There are innovative platforms or websites that link up employers with virtual freelancers globally. Here you can search for independent professionals and choose the most qualified through the site’s bidding system.

Yes, hiring a virtual executive assistant is cheaper compared to engaging the services of a full-time administrative assistant. The proper time to sign up this home-based service provider is when many tasks in your to-do lists need to be delegated to someone competent and resourceful. It is also an opportunity to earn more revenues since you are freed from the burden of clerical chores.

Understand the Benefits

See to it that you understand the advantages of using the services of a virtual executive assistant.

• Virtual assistants are autonomous or self-sufficient contractors who need to be paid for hours rendered or work accomplished in a day, week or month. However, most VA contracts are good for several months or until the project is completed. The employer does not have to worry about benefits, work space or equipment. The business owner communicates with the virtual executive assistant through Skype, e-mail and social media.
• Majority of virtual assistants from different parts of the world are available 24/7. Thus, you are assured that someone is focusing on your requirements even at night or wee hours of the morning.
• The rates are significantly lower than paying a regular employee. Besides, the costs can be deducted from the employer’s income tax.

There is a variety of fee structures for the virtual executive assistant. Some charge per hour while others opt for the monthly retainer arrangement with minimum guaranteed hours every month.

Qualities of a Good VA

To make sure that you get a proficient virtual executive assistant, focus on the person’s work ethic, prompt response, commitment, and attention to details.

• The candidate must have excellent oral and written English communications skills because virtual assistants are required to talk with clients regularly and write correspondences, reports as well as articles on the web.
• A virtual executive assistant must be organized since part of their job is to set appointments, monitor activities, take care of documentation, conduct research, and do some technical work.
• Experience is preferred by most employers. In other words, the VA should be doing this kind of work for different companies or individuals the last few years.
• Round the clock availability is also a requirement depending of course on the time zone where the virtual executive assistant lives.
• Technology skills refer to knowledge of certain apps or software programs that will make the business run more efficiently.

It is vital to find the right virtual executive assistant for your enterprise. Make sure to give it the necessary attention and time. It can be a virtual assistant for a specific task or one with several skills for multiple tasks. Take into consideration all prerequisites such as contract, rates, invoices, duties, and confidentiality agreement. Once you have selected the virtual assistant, it is time to delegate those assignments.

It is not difficult to find a virtual executive assistant these days. The question is how do you end up getting a very capable VA for your business needs?