Working with a virtual assistant or VA is an excellent way to boost your productivity and increase your business.  VA’s are highly trained, business owners who want to help you grow your business.  Virtual assistants are in the service industry because they love to help you and want your business to thrive.  When first working with a VA, you may not completely understand how to get the most out of the relationship.  I have listed some tips to help make the transition easier on both you and your virtual assistant.

Working with a virtual assistant or VA is an excellent way to boost your productivity and increase your business.  VA’s are highly trained, business owners who want to help you grow your business.  Virtual assistants are in the service industry because they love to help you and want your business to thrive.  When first working with a VA, you may not completely understand how to get the most out of the relationship.  I have listed some tips to help make the transition easier on both you and your virtual assistant.

1. Communication – be as clear as possible on what you expect from the project.  This is especially important in the beginning.  The more information you can give the better results you will get.

2. Think ahead – try to look ahead in your schedule.  Look for tasks you can delegate to your VA.  Try to keep the last minute items to a minimum.  You may even find tasks that can be completely delegated to your VA, and you can get them off your plate!

3. Remember your VA is a business owner too –  This means she has a marketing mindset, and understands what it takes to build a successful business.  Take some time to build the relationship and talk with your VA.  Go over your ideas and goals and find out how she can best help you achieve them.

4. Communication – this is such a huge point, that I am listing it twice!  Your VA is not a mind reader, so you must communicate your goals, ideas, and expectations.  This is the only way for your VA to truly help you!

5. Be very specific –  As you build the relationship, your VA will most likely be able to be a step ahead, but until then, be sure to get specific about details and deadlines!

6. Make some time to discuss your current processes with your VA – Virtual assistants have a wide range of experience, and can help you to streamline your processes.  She can help you determine the best way to delegate seamlessly to her, and also help you to create better internal processes for your business.

Remember the relationship with your virtual assistant is ongoing and can grow and change with time.  Keeping communication lines open will really help both of you.  Hiring a virtual assistant may be the best thing you can do for your business!