Once you have partnered with your virtual assistant & identified an initial task list for them, you need to discuss with your VA how you will assign tasks quickly & efficiently.
I use a combination of google docs, drop box & email with my clients but there are many other tools on the web that can help you get the most out of your virtual relationship.
Provided your VA has good consultation & communication processes they should already have an idea of what weekly & monthly tasks they need to action. You should always know the status of the jobs & shouldn’t need to ask for updates.
I hold a weekly call with clients & email them with details of tasks completed along with timings so they are aware of their status. This also ensures they are aware of how much time they have left, which is especially valuable if clients are on a retainer contract, they can then work out if there are more tasks they can give me or if they need to prioritise the tasks we have scheduled.
Partnering with a virtual assistant is like working with any other freelancer or employee. You have to set expectations early in your relationship to avoid confusion or digression. These expectations need to work both ways, it is important to remember that a virtual assistant works with multiple clients in structured way & everything is planned to ensure full productivity, this is not to say that if you have an urgent requirement they can’t help & they should always do their best to accommodate your request.
If you find it difficult to work with your virtual assistant, they’re probably not the right person for you. A good virtual relationship should always make your life easier not more difficult but provided you have had a consultation (you should be able to get an idea of the type of person you’re dealing with), covered expectations & have clear communication lines you will wonder how you ever survived without one.
E: Rachel@rhva.co.uk
T: 0843 8860136 M: 07834 166320
W: www.rhva.co.uk