Top 7 Must-Have Skills to Consider When Hiring a Virtual Assistant
Last Updated: May 12, 2023 | 
MIN READ
A virtual assistant provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients from different locations. Virtual assistants can work for individuals or businesses, and they perform tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing emails, organizing files, creating reports, conducting research, managing social media accounts, and taking care of other administrative tasks.
The demand for virtual assistants has increased in recent years as more businesses seek flexible and cost-effective ways to outsource administrative tasks. Virtual assistants can provide a wide range of services, and their skills and expertise can help businesses save time and increase productivity.
There are several skills you should look out for when hiring a virtual assistant to ensure quality service.
Here are some of the key skills to have:
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Communication |
Communication is a critical skill for a virtual assistant. Effective communication is essential to understand clients' needs and meet their expectations by delivering high-quality work. They most commonly communicate with clients via email, phone, or video conferencing to convey information clearly and effectively. Building trust is critical for a virtual assistant's success. Communicating regularly and informing their clients of their progress helps foster a solid foundation. This can lead to a long-term working relationship and repeat business.
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Time management |
A successful virtual assistant knows how to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. They need to be able to prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and manage their time effectively. Knowing their workflow and bandwidth to take on tasks for the day is part of effective time management. Virtual assistants should plan their day ahead, stick to their to-do list, and eliminate all kinds of distractions.
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Organization |
A virtual assistant must have strong organizational skills to keep track of tasks, projects, and deadlines – including managing files, documents, and emails. Organizing administration tasks lets them stay on top of everything and not miss deadlines and tasks. Staying organized is one of the most critical aspects of project management, a valuable and in-demand skill for virtual assistants.
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Bookkeeping |
Bookkeeping is the process of recording, classifying, and organizing financial transactions and information of a business or organization. The purpose of bookkeeping is to maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records that can be used for financial reporting, analysis, and decision-making. Companies look for virtual assistants to manage their day-to-day finances.
Bookkeeping is often mistaken for accounting, but the former needs to be more inclusive with specific tasks that include invoicing, data entry, billing, employee reimbursement, reconciliation, payroll, inventory control and analysis, and reporting.
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Email management |
Email management is crucial in the digital age, and virtual assistants play a vital role in streamlining communication. They perform tasks like email screening, organization, response handling, scheduling, and tracking. Utilizing tools such as filters, rules, and automated replies, virtual assistants optimize inbox management. They screen and categorize emails, compose professional responses, and coordinate schedules, ensuring efficient communication. By delegating email management to virtual assistants, individuals and businesses can focus on essential tasks while maintaining an organized and responsive inbox.
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Composing and writing |
Proficiency in writing and typing can boost productivity in any work environment. To be successful as a virtual assistant, one must be able to type quickly and professionally for the clients, no matter the task. Some virtual assistants who are also experienced writers serve copywriting and content-writing skills.
Transcribing meetings, writing emails, and creating content such as blogs, presentations, and website copy may fall under the responsibilities of a virtual assistant. That's why fast and accurate typing is important.
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Technical skills |
In today's digital age, being tech-savvy is a valuable skill, especially for virtual assistants who rely on technology to communicate with clients and complete tasks. Virtual assistants can streamline their work processes and improve productivity using technology tools such as project management software, communication apps, and document management systems.
Virtual assistants rely on technology, such as video conferencing, messaging apps, and email, to communicate with clients quickly and effectively. They can improve their efficiency, communication, and productivity by being knowledgeable about technology, helping provide high-quality service to their clients, and satisfying their requirements.
Where to Find the Right Virtual Assistant?
If you are searching for the right virtual assistant, Offshore Business Processing (OBP) can help. Our virtual assistants are competent and reliable, with intensive training to ensure quality results and contribute to the success of clients' businesses. Feel free to contacting us to discuss how we can streamline your processes and enhance productivity.
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