You've reached that pivotal moment in your business where there's too much work for you to handle alone. It's time to hire a Virtual Assistant (VA). This decision is both exciting and daunting, but we're here to simplify the process.
Why Hire a Virtual Assistant?
Hiring a VA comes with numerous benefits. Not only will you free up time to focus on what you love about your business, but you also have a global talent pool to choose from. If they can work within your hours and have reliable internet, the possibilities are endless.
Defining Your VA Needs
What Do You Need Them to Do?
Before you start your search, clarify your requirements. Are you looking for a general VA to handle daily tasks like email management, or do you need a specialist for tasks such as bookkeeping or video editing? The more specific you are, the easier it will be to find the right fit.
Setting Your Budget
Know your financial limits before you begin. Determine how many hours you can afford to pay, how much work you need to delegate, and the maximum rate you're willing to pay.
Evaluating Candidates
Assessing Experience
Consider how much experience is necessary for your needs. Decide if you're open to candidates with less experience but great potential, or if you need someone with a proven track record. Be clear about your flexibility regarding their skill level and experience.
Checking References
Always check references. This step is often overlooked, but it’s crucial. Talking to past employers who can give you some insights into the candidate's work ethic and reliability.
Conducting Trial Runs
Consider a trial run to gauge their skills and compatibility. This can be a half-day test or a month-long paid trial. This period allows you to evaluate their performance and communication style.
Finalising the Hire
Creating an Airtight Agreement
When it's time to hire, ensure you have a solid agreement that covers all aspects of their role, including scope of work, hours, timelines, and intellectual property rights. A well-defined contract prevents future misunderstandings.
Additional Resources
To further assist you, we've created a Guide to Hiring a Freelancer or Virtual Assistant. This resource delves deeper into the hiring process, offering more detailed insights.
Celebrate Your Milestone
Hiring a Virtual Assistant is a significant step in growing your business. Take a moment to celebrate this milestone!
Contracts for hiring Virtual Assistants
Once you've found your Virtual Assistant, check out our Independent Contractor Agreement.
This Independent Contractor Agreement template sets out the terms and conditions on which you will engage your Virtual Assistant/OBM be sure to complete the Schedule to reflect your needs around scope and deliverables. It is so bloody important to set boundaries and expectations and ensure that your systems and processes further emphasise that.
Contracts For Virtual Assistants
If you're a VA reading this, explore our Virtual Assistant and OBM Agreement tailored just for you.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect Virtual Assistant to help you scale your business. Remember, preparation is key to ensuring a successful hire. Happy hunting!
