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A Virtual Assistant is a self-employed individual who provides virtual office support from his or her home office. This person can offer administrative, technical, or creative support for your business from the comfort of their home. Hiring someone to provide additional help or expertise for your business may be exactly what you need and a virtual assistant may be the way to go – but what questions should you ask before hiring one?
#1) What days and times are they available?
If you need someone during certain hours and days, ensure this individual can support your needs. However, if you don’t need a VA during specific hours, but still have firm deadlines, make sure you communicate that with the applicant. Ask what their turn-around time is, and speak to the importance of your deadlines.
You should get an idea of their sense of urgency and work ethic from asking a few basic questions about deadlines and availability.
#2) What industries are they familiar with?
The last thing you want is someone who is not acquainted with your industry lingo attempting to assist your business. Of course, this is not true for all industries. Real estate, construction, and technically-based industries are just a few businesses that require someone with industry knowledge to properly perform their job functions. It would be wise to create a questionnaire or a simple test that quizzes the applicant on their industry lingo and expertise before making the professional commitment to work together.
#3) Does they have any current clients that conflict with my business?
Ask to review the applicant’s confidentiality agreement. Be frank when asking if the applicant is currently engaged in any contracts that would prevent them performing their job duties for your business, and don’t be afraid to ask for references.
A Virtual Assistant can be a wonderful addition to your business. Just make sure to ask the right questions and give them some thought. Once you do, choose someone that you like and that you can see yourself working with for a long time. Happy Hiring!
Contact us if you’d like to learn more about hiring a Virtual Assistant.
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