subject: Hiring a Virtual Assistant [print this page] Hiring a Virtual Assistant Hiring a Virtual Assistant
Hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA) needs care, a sharp eye, proper preparation and candidate selection. Making a decision to hire one is the easiest part of the job, while choosing the right one needs keen business acumen, the right gut feeling and loads of patience. As the VA you ultimately hire has to be RIGHT for your business.
Choosing the right candidate.
Before posting a job you need to determine exactly what should the VA be doing for you? You need to determine the specific tasks that the VA will be taking up on your behalf and representing you and your company. Knowing what task you will be asking the VA to be responsible for will give you a clear idea on the specific skill sets the job requires. You need to list the task and the skills needed to carry out the task, and then ask yourself how many hours will that task be needing if you yourself are carrying it out, how much is it you are willing to pay and how many hours of work will that job be?
You then will have to determine if this task needs to be repeated or is it a one time task. If it is a one time task then the job can be posted as a fixed price job. But if the job is part of a repetitive process then it can be classified as a weekly task that will need a fixed amount of time each week. Jobs of this type will require a set budget either on a weekly basis or on an hourly basis to compensate the VA.
There are several good websites wherein one can post the jobs. Most sites require the posting based on its category or type. But before posting a job on any site, make sure that you have complete understanding of their terms and conditions. Pay particular attention to their charges. Take note of their dispute resolution process should you need to resolve an issue with the VA you eventually hire.
After posting the job online, you need to keep track of applicants or job candidates.
There are veteran applicants who have already logged on quite a number of hours and jobs, but are new to the task that you want done. You will find this out in the job applicant's profile.
Always look at the candidates posted profile. This profile paints an accurate picture of the candidate. Before interviewing, pay particular attention to the application letter of the candidate. This letter reveals the communication skills of the candidate. A letter that appears to be written in standard format can indicate about the writing skills of the candidate. A letter that is written in a flowing manner, referring to details found in your job post is a good indicator of the personality and creative skills of the candidate.
Therefore choose carefully and relax wisely upon entrusting your task to the right chosen virtual assistant.
