Hiring a Virtual Assistant... Doing it right

When hiring a Virtual Assistant, it is important to find the right person for you and your company, so invest the time required up-front in getting the selection and evaluation right.

Here is a simple 5-step guide to making a good selection decision:

1. Decide what you need. Start by making a list of the tasks you need help with and be realistic about what you are willing to delegate. Type these up as a briefing document that you can send to prospective candidates – this will help you get comparable quotes.
2. Do your research. Ask people you know for referrals. Use directories and internet search engines to develop a long list – precise search terms (e.g. typing and admin services in Warwickshire) will improve search results. Assess their professionalism from their website.
3. Qualify the candidates. Conduct telephone interviews to select a short list. Find out more about their services, experience and clients – ask if you can contact a client or two. Listen-out for the subtle signs in telephone manner, confidence in their service and clients, etc.
4. Evaluate proposals carefully. Assess their understanding of your requirements and how they would approach key tasks – ensure you are comfortable with the method of working and IT tools. Do they have IT support to help you get set up or for when things go run.
5. Contract in an appropriate way. Test the service and build trust in the relationship during a trial period – a no contract, pay-as-you-go option is ideal for this. When you know roughly how much time you need it may be better switching to a discounted retainer contract. 

See other related posts about the common tasks that people delegate to VAs and deciding how much of a VA’s time you need.

For more information about selecting a Virtual Assistant see our article Admin Outsourcing Partner Selection... Getting It Right.

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