Before hiring a virtual assistant for business, determine what kind of assistance you need. For instance, you may want a VA to manage your email, schedule meetings, and calendar events; or you might need an agency that specializes in social media management, content writing, or website development. In addition, you should determine the number of hours you need a VA to work in order to meet your business goals and operational needs.
Ask the agency if they provide training for the tasks you need completed. If they don’t, consider partnering with another agency that does. Also, evaluate the agency’s communication skills. Ask how long it takes them to respond to inquiries and how clear their responses are.
Virtual Assistant Agencies vs. Hiring Directly: Key Differences
If you have a specific type of project in mind, ask the agency what types of projects they have worked on for their clients. This will give you an idea of their capabilities and whether or not they have the expertise to deliver on your project expectations.
You should also ask the agency how they manage time zone differences when working with clients. If you are considering a managed VA service, this will be especially important to ensure that your VA is available during your business hours.
As the world’s largest freelance marketplace, Upwork has a wide range of VA services to offer, including administrative support, marketing, and customer service. However, it is essential to select a qualified VA who will be able to adapt and adjust to your business needs, while maintaining the highest level of quality and integrity.