Lately, my LinkedIn inbox has been filled with DMs asking me if I am interested in hiring or working with virtual assistants. To be honest, the timing was serendipitous. I have been contemplating hiring an assistant in the coming months. Yet, I wasn’t completely sold on the idea.
Rather than spending hours contemplating the pros and cons of working with a virtual assistant, I decided to do some research. None of my business associates or friends have ever worked with a virtual assistant. Many have recommended I work with one, and honestly, not having to spend the time and money advertising, interviewing, and training someone sounds amazing.
Pros of hiring a virtual assistant
1. Increased productivity and efficiency: Virtual assistants can handle time-consuming tasks, such as billing and client communication, giving you more time to focus on core responsibilities.
2. Cost-effectiveness and flexibility: Hiring a virtual assistant can save you money compared to a full-time employee, especially if your workload varies. You only pay for the hours worked.
3. Access to diverse skill set and expertise: Virtual assistants often possess a wide range of skills, allowing them to assist with various tasks, including office management and research.
Cons of Hiring a Virtual Assistant
1. Communication challenges and language barriers: Clear communication is vital, and potential language differences can pose challenges in effectively conveying your requirements to a virtual assistant.
2. Lack of physical presence and direct supervision: If you prefer managing employees in person, the remote nature of working with a virtual assistant may be a disadvantage.
3. Security and confidentiality concerns: Sharing sensitive information with a virtual assistant raises confidentiality risks, so it’s important to select a trustworthy assistant and establish secure communication channels.
Overall working with a virtual assistant could be great for many, but I am still on the fence. As life settles down for me in the next few weeks, I will be able to make a final decision. If you are looking to work with a virtual assistant. Here are 5 tips to help make it a great experience.
1. Clearly define your needs and expectations upfront to ensure alignment.
2. Conduct thorough research and background checks using reputable platforms or agencies.
3. Establish clear communication channels and set expectations for regular communication.
4. Implement a trial period to assess the virtual assistant’s capabilities and compatibility.
5. Foster a positive work environment through regular feedback and open communication.
As the world continues to adjust after the pandemic, we will continue to see shifts in how offices function, and how employees work. In all honesty, depending on the job and it’s requirements, virtual assistants could be the future.
Sara Orellana, MS, MPH is an independent entrepreneur who specializes in strategic planning, leadership, and grant writing. She can be reached at sara@3raptorconsulting.com.