WHAT CAN A CLIENT REASONABLY EXPECT FROM A VIRTUAL ASSISTANT?

Clients have the opportunity to ask questions and clearly identify their requirements and whether the Virtual Assistant can, or will, meet them. A VA may offer long-term, ad hoc and one-off project support for a wide variety of business needs.

Clients need to understand the flexibility and the variety of skill sets that a true Virtual Assistant offers as well as the cost effectiveness of having the skilled resource available to support their business.

It is just as important to the VA as to the client that there is a sense of mutual trust and respect, as well as an understanding of the value of the service being provided. To get the most out of a working relationship with a VA, clients should take the time to develop a thorough understanding of their own business’ needs and be able to communicate clearly what those needs are. They can then clearly align the skills and expertise a VA can bring to their business.

VAs should deliver honesty, integrity, professionalism and quality to their clients. At the same time, Clients will need to be aware that a VA should be considered as a supplier. The rates agreed for the work undertaken need to be factored into the Client’s working costs, just as they would with any other operational cost.

THE BENEFITS GAINED BY WORKING WITH A VIRTUAL ASSISTANT

Think of it this way. If you are a sole trader or a small business, how much time is spent on administrative tasks each week? Take that number of hours (it’s unlikely to be less than four) and answer this question:

How much revenue could you generate for your business if you had that many extra business hours in a week?

When you work with a VA:

• You only pay for the work done.
• Virtual Assistants do not accrue employee rights.
• You don’t have any accommodation, equipment or employer overheads.
• Confidentiality and security are very much part of the VA ethos.
• You have professional office support that will provide polish to your image, whether that is through having your presentations and documents prepared professionally or having someone who is knowledgeable about your business answering your telephone.

© Laura Swetman,
Essandelle - Your Virtual PA

www.yourvirtualpa.co.uk
www.essandelle.co.uk
www.aliquantum.org