If you’re serious about finding a virtual assistant that you want to work with on a continual basis, you’ll want to want to make sure you pick the right one. Each person has their own needs when it comes to hiring a virtual assistant but there are some basics that everyone can adhere to for a long-lasting, successful partnership.
I say partnership because that is exactly what it is. A partnership between two professionals; you receive the benefit of having someone help you with your business while the virtual assistant is able to use their knowledge and experience to get paid. It is a win-win combination for the two of you.
Where Do You Find A VA?
There are many places to find help with your business. You can go to freelance websites looking for a particular skill set or basically google virtual assistants near you. Here are a few ideas you can utilize in finding a virtual assistant with which to partner.
Finding A Virtual Assistant Using Freelance Websites
Websites such as freelance.com, upwork.com, and fiverr.com are great sites when you need one particular skill or a short term project. Although, there are pros and cons to using these websites.
Freelance Website Pros
- Quick and easy search
- 3rd party support
- Low cost
Freelance Website Cons
- Low chance of long term relationship
- Pay fee to website for service
- Lots of foreign freelancers-if work requires perfect English, this may be difficult to obtain
- Typically only a one and done type relationship
Finding a Virtual Assistant on Craigslist
I know, I know….Craigslist. Is that even a thing now? It has gotten some bad press over the years, and yes, it can be a bit daunting trying to find professional services on Craigslist, but it really is a good way to find virtual assistants, especially those just starting out in the business. Maybe you don’t want someone starting out, so maybe this isn’t the route you should take. But for those that are new to gaining a virtual assistant, starting with one new to the field might be right for you. The two of you can learn together!
Many virtual assistants, although new to being called that have a wealth of experience under their belts already. They are just starting the farm out their skills to others. For instance, someone who has over two decades as an executive assistant has either been downsized from their corporation or decided they wanted to be home with their kids. She’s new to being a ‘virtual assistant’ but definitely knows her way around answering calls, data entry, writing letters, and organizing emails! Keep your mind open to the possibilities!
Finding a Virtual Assistant using Google Search
If, by chance, you are looking for a virtual assistant but would like one somewhere near you so that you can meet in person, the best way to do this would be google search. Just type in virtual assistant near me and bam! You’ve got a list from which to choose.
No matter how you go about finding a virtual assistant, you should always vet the ones you want to talk to. Getting to know the person you’ll be partnering with, get to know their experience with the skills you need to utilize, and any references they may have is important.