Over the last few years, more companies have embraced remote working, which has seen a rise in the number of Virtual Assistants (VAs) as more PAs and administrators are leaving the office and turning to this new profession.
A Virtual Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the success of a small business; but what makes a great Virtual Assistant?
Here are a few of the must-have qualities we look for in our VAs…
Communication
Since you won’t be working in the same office as your clients, clear and effective communication is vital to ensuring everything runs smoothly. Making sure you understand your client’s preferred communication method and establishing regular check-ins to discuss projects and goals makes the difference between an OK VA and a great one.
Organisation
Organisation is a key skill as a virtual assistant, as you’ll be juggling multiple clients and tasks at the same time. To stay on top of everything, it’s essential to be organised. Using tools like project management software, calendars, and to-do lists helps you to keep track of deadlines and priorities. This will help you stay focused and ensure that you’re meeting your client’s expectations.
Software skills
Being tech-savvy is another essential part of a Virtual Assistant’s skillset. Since you’ll be working remotely, you’ll need to have a good understanding of technology. You should be comfortable with tools like video conferencing, cloud storage, and project management software. If you’re not familiar with a particular tool, take the time to learn it before you start working with a client. We always recommend our VAs stay up-to-date with the latest software and attend regular training sessions and demos at least once a month.
Proactivity
Being proactive is one of the best ways to impress your clients, so don’t wait for them to tell you what to do! It’s important to take the initiative and suggest ways that you can support your clients. Offer to take on additional tasks or help with a project that’s outside of your usual responsibilities; this shows your clients that you’re invested in their success and willing to go the extra mile to support them.
Lifelong learning
Continuing to develop your skills will ensure that you keep up with the latest industry trends and best practices. Reading blogs, attending webinars, and taking online courses is a great way to do so. This will not only make you more valuable to your clients, but it will also help you stay motivated and engaged in your work!
Being a virtual assistant can be a rewarding and fulfilling profession, but making the transition from an in-person role can sometimes feel lonely. However, there are many people that have made the same leap and are looking to connect with like-minded people. We recommend joining VA specific LinkedIn and Facebook groups, and speaking with a business coach for extra support. And of course, we are always happy to share our experiences!
To find out more about joining Virtual Administration as a professional VA, visit our recruitment page here.
