6 Things To Do Before Hiring a VA

Hiring a Virtual Assistant can make a huge positive impact on you and your business.  As a small business owner, your VA could be the most important hire you make, and be the first stride in taking your business to the next level.

It’s a big step!  And it can be scary.  So here are our top tips on what to think about before hiring a Virtual Assistant.

1. Be sure you’re ready to delegate

As a small business owner, it can be really difficult to take a step back and let someone else take over the reins in some areas.  If you’re used to doing everything, and doing it in a certain way, getting used to another person’s way of working can be a real adjustment.  But if you want to get the most out of your working relationship with your Virtual Assistant, you need to be able to let them help you.  There’s no point hiring someone if you’re not going to use their skills, or micro-manage them. You need to be prepared to let go of some areas of your business baby.  Don’t worry, this is exactly what your VA is here for. 

2. Be clear on the skill set you’re looking for

What are the tasks that are holding you back in your business?  Is it admin that doesn’t have to be done by you?  Do you need a specialist skill set for marketing, social media or book keeping?  Or would your business be best supported by giving you more time, would lifestyle support be a better fit, to free up more time for you to focus on your business?

The clearer an idea you have on what you need, the easier it is to find the right Virtual Assistant to match it.

3. Be clear on your non-negotiables

Do you need business support during specific hours?  Is it imperative that you have a  minimum response time from your VA? Or is it more important that your Virtual Assistant shares your business’ values and ethos? If you have specific requirements, you need to let your VA know so they can work with you on them.

4. Be ready to build a relationship

One of the best things about having a VA when you’re a small business owner, is having someone on your team.  Not just in terms of getting things done, but also having a colleague, a cheerleader, someone who gets how big of a deal those business wins are. 

And remember, like any great relationship, it can take a little time to build.  So it’s really important that not only your VA has the skills that you need, but you get on too!

5. Decide whether you need one skill set, or help across a couple of different areas

If you’re looking for support in one key area, e.g. admin or social media marketing, then a single VA with a specialist skill set is perfect for you.  But if you think that you could do with support in a couple of different areas, working with a service like Upsource can match you with the specific skill sets you need without the hassle of having to go through multiple hiring processes.

6. Be prepared to onboard your VA

Your Virtual Assistant may have a wealth of experience in their field – but that doesn’t mean they know everything.  To get the best from your VA you’ll need to give them the 101 on your business, your business culture, how you like to communicate.  You don’t need to wait until you have every system and process perfectly in place before bringing them on, they may even be able to help with that!  But you will need to grow together.

Now you’re prepared to hire your Virtual Assistant!  You have the essential factors covered.  But if you want some more advice, or you’re ready to take the plunge and find your new team member, get in touch with Caroline and Upsource can help.