Has anyone found a reliable Virtual Assistant?

October 10, 2023

by a searcher in Austin, TX, USA

This is more of a general question but, has anyone found a reliable VA? I find myself going through quite a few when I realize they aren't as qualified as they present themselves to be.

Thanks.

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Reply by a searcher
from University of Ottawa in Ottawa, ON, Canada

The most important thing to consider is the interview and trial process to make sure they are a good fit. When doing a job post, place in there a unique question to make sure they read the job description and can follow instructions (e.g. reply to this job post with your favourite colour). Your trial process can be just one task, to see how they perform and how they engage with you. Remember, they are basically a contractor, so treat them well, and communicate as much as humanly possible. It is often the lack of communication with VAs that cause things to go wrong. They can up and quit on you if they feel they are being treated unfairly. You are here to work together, not boss them around. Be firm and fair in your dealings with people, it goes a long way. Other things to consider are time zones and currency depending on your situation. It may be a cliché, but sometimes you get what you pay for, so don't go for the cheapest option, which is why the initial period is critical. Good luck!

Reply by an investor
from Indiana University at Bloomington in Austin, TX, USA

I hire from OnlineJobs.ph. I setup a 3 stage application process in which a VA has to complete 3 tasks that increase in complexity as they go (I think it was - 1. Reply to this job posting in a certain way (specific subject line, key elements in the body of the email, what not to do etc), 2. Correct spelling and grammatical errors in a edit a paragraph, and 3. find the mistakes in a P&L statement (2 incorrect formulas and fields not summing correct). When candidates apply for your listing, have them go through each test. IF they don't pass the test, kick them out of the process. I had about 150 people apply to my posting and only 5 people passed all 3 tests. I did a final interview with all 5, and hire 1 and put two others on standby.

Then, you test them out for a few weeks and make sure they deliver what's expected. Have them send you a summary on what they did, what's next up, and what they need help with every day.

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