Imagine trying to juggle customer emails, messy files, and the never-ending quest to get things a tad more organized, all while trying to grow your business. Sound familiar? If you’re a small business owner, I’m betting this feels like your daily life. You’re juggling a million tasks, and no matter how many things you cross off your to-do list, more just keep popping up. Trust me—I get it. The struggle is real! But that’s where a virtual assistant (VA) swoops in, like your very own business sidekick.
But here’s the thing: not all VAs are created equal. Hiring the right one isn’t just about finding someone to take random tasks off your plate. It’s about choosing someone who’s going to be your partner, helping you keep things running smoothly and bringing some serious value to your business. So, how do you know you’re hiring the right person? Here's your ultimate guide to hiring a virtual assistant.
Transparent: She Keeps the Lines Open
Look, nobody has time to babysit their virtual assistant. If you’re outsourcing tasks, it’s because you need to free up time, not spend more of it wondering what’s going on. This is why transparency is a non-negotiable trait in any VA worth their salt.
A great virtual assistant doesn’t leave you guessing—they keep you in the loop. Whether it’s progress updates, a heads-up on any hiccups, or simply letting you know things are on track, transparency is how they take the weight off your shoulders. They’re proactive, not reactive, which means you’re always in the know and can focus on the big picture.
Let’s say you hand over calendar management. A transparent VA will make sure you’re not double-booked and will warn you about potential conflicts. You won’t be blindsided by missed meetings or deadlines because they’re already on top of it.
“I really needed someone to come in and help lift some of the weight off my shoulders. I needed a superhero who could not only take care of business but also bring in fresh ideas."
That’s what transparency does—it’s like having a business partner who’s got your back, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Direct and Honest: She Gives The Tough Love You Didn’t Know You Needed
You know how your best friend will tell you when you’ve got something stuck in your teeth? You need that same level of honesty from your VA. A direct, no-nonsense approach is essential because you don’t want someone who just agrees with everything you say. You need a VA who’s not afraid to speak up, even when it’s something you may not want to hear.
Sure, it’s nice when people tell you you’re doing everything perfectly, but let’s be real—sometimes you’re not. A VA who tells you the truth will help you avoid mistakes and make better decisions for your business. Whether it’s pointing out a process that’s inefficient, suggesting a new tool, or gently reminding you that your latest deadline is a bit too ambitious, an honest VA will keep you grounded.
This honesty builds trust. When your VA is upfront about what’s working and what’s not, you know they’re invested in your success, not just clocking hours. It’s like having someone in your corner who’s always going to be straight with you, even when it’s tough love. And trust me, you’ll be grateful for it.
Adaptable: She Rolls With The Punches
If there’s one thing all business owners know, it’s that things rarely go exactly as planned. Projects shift, priorities change, and new challenges pop up. That’s why adaptability is another key trait to look for in a VA. You need someone who can go with the flow and handle whatever comes their way without missing a beat.
Maybe you already have systems in place that you love—perfect! A good VA won’t force their way of doing things on you. Instead, they’ll jump right into your world and adapt to how you work. They should be flexible enough to pick up new tools or processes as needed and calm enough to handle those unexpected fires that seem to pop up at the worst times.
Flexibility is a superpower in business. It’s what allows small businesses to survive and thrive in a constantly changing world. If your VA can pivot and adjust on the fly, they’ll be a key player in helping you grow your business and handle whatever curveballs come your way.
Think of it like this: business growth often comes from adapting to new tools, strategies, and circumstances. A VA who’s adaptable will not only keep up but help you thrive through the changes.
Personality: Because The Right Fit Matters
Now, let’s talk about personality. You’re going to be working closely with this person, so you better like them! The way you mesh with your VA absolutely matters. It’s not just about finding someone with the right skills—it’s about finding someone who fits your style, gets your vision, and is easy (and fun!) to work with.
Your VA is going to be in the trenches with you, so you want someone who makes that journey smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a laid-back leader or someone who likes structure and efficiency, finding a VA who can vibe with you is crucial.
During the hiring process, don’t rush. Take your time to feel out their personality. Do they get your humor? Are they easy to talk to? Can they handle feedback well? Finding the right VA is like dating—you want someone you click with. Once you find that person, you’ll wonder how you ever ran your business without them.
“I was basically running around, trying to do a million things at once and not doing any of them as well as I wanted.”
I think we’ve all been there. The right VA will not only help you get things done but will also bring an energy and dynamic that just makes everything feel easier and more productive.
She Is More Than Just Help—She's Your Partner
When it comes to hiring a virtual assistant, you’re not just looking for someone to check off tasks—you’re looking for a partner. Someone who’s transparent, direct, adaptable, and has a personality that clicks with yours. These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the foundation of a strong working relationship that will help your business thrive.
Take your time when hiring, ask the right questions, and don’t settle for anything less than a VA who’s a perfect fit for your business and personality. When you find that person, they’ll be a game-changer, allowing you to focus on the big stuff while they handle the details.
At the end of the day, hiring the right VA is an investment in your sanity and your business’s success. The relief you’ll feel when you find someone who gets it, who takes things off your plate, and who does it with enthusiasm and skill, is priceless. And I'm here to help. Click the button below to schedule a call and we'll get started—together.