Once you decide to hire a Virtual Assistant you will then need to begin your search for someone who fits the needs you require. It’s important to realise that not all VAs have the same set of skills.
It’s important that you find a Virtual Assistant that fits well with your business and personality. Here are some things to consider when searching for the perfect Virtual Assistant for your business.
Things To Consider When Looking For a VA
How much can you afford to pay?
You’ll need to consider how much you can afford to pay in both money and time. A VA with a higher rate will (or at least should) have more experience and therefore will need less training from you. If you are considering hiring a brand-new VA with a very low rate, remember that you’ll need to invest more time in the beginning teaching them ‘the ropes’. VA rates normally range anywhere from R300-R500 per hour for an experienced VA and lower for people who getting started in the business.
What services do you need?
This may be an obvious question, but many VAs have a wide range of services where others may specialize in one or two things. When you’re searching for a virtual assistant try to think ahead about what services you may need in the near future as well as present, then search for a VA who does both.
How much time do you need?
Good VAs get booked up quickly so make sure you book the time you need with a VA you are happy with, before she gets booked with other clients.
Where to Begin Your Search
Always start with your friends and colleagues. Who do you know who outsources and does it well? They may be willing to share their Virtual Assistant info with you, or know of someone who’s good.
Of course, Facebook is a great place, you can ask other members that you know and respect, for referrals. Some of the members that you know may be service providers, themselves. There are also many, many groups specifically for Virtual Assistants that allow people to come in and post jobs.
Finding the Perfect Virtual Assistant
Whichever way you go about posting your job, you will want to interview several candidates before you hire anyone. This can be done via email or phone. You should ask for referrals from others they have worked for in the past and to see samples of their work.
Make sure they have a clear understanding of the project you want completed; both of you should understand the price that you will pay and when the project is due. It’s also in the best interest of both yourself and the Virtual Assistant to set up a contract outlining all the details you’ve agreed to. Another thing to consider is having a ‘non-disclosure’ agreement so that you know the VA will not share your proprietary information.
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