So, you're ready to bring someone in to help you with admin tasks, research, and more.

For most business owners, hiring help is a big decision. It's scary giving up that sense of control and relying on somebody else to get things done and do them right.

That's why I'm so glad to share this advice from Dianne Bennett, Founder of May I Help You Virtual Services, on finding the right Virtual Assistant (VA) for you.

The first thing to understand is that, just like you, a VA is a business owner. They usually focus on a specific area of expertise—creative, technical, or administrative—and set their own hours and rates.

So, the first question to ask yourself is: Do I really need a VA?

If you relate to any of the following, then you're a prime candidate for one:

• There are tasks you dread doing but they must get done. Every time you do them, it's like pulling teeth.
• You know that if you could just free up some time, you'd be able to take your business farther.
• You've created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for tasks you'd like to off-load but you're just not ready to hire a full-time employee yet.
• You know if these one or two things were crossed off your to-do list, you could finally move forward with your business strategy, but you just don't have the time to invest right now.

So, how do you go about finding the right VA? It's a personal choice, of course, but here's some guidance:

1. Start Small​
   It may sound basic, but you need to trust that the person to whom you're delegating the work will get the job done. For many business owners, it makes sense to start with a relatively small assignment to understand the process and get comfortable working with a VA.
   ​
2. Be Serious​
   It's important to treat your VA engagement like any other business relationship. Create an RFP (Request For Proposal) that spells out in detail what you need done, your timeline, and any other important considerations. Then, post it on a verified VA Job Board.
   ​
3. Be Prepared​
   In addition to having your SOPs ready to share, you want to prepare questions to ask any VA you're considering hiring. Don't just wing it. Think about what you need to know to trust this person to do a great job for you. Remember, if it goes well, they may be someone you rely on well into the future.

Perhaps the most important thing for you to understand is that your job doesn't end once the VA's begins.

You need to block off time to gather the necessary information your VA needs, provide direction and feedback to start and along the way, and be available to answer questions as needed.

Listen, any time you hire someone to work in your business, there's risk involved, but a little thought and preparation really does make a huge difference for both you and the VA you bring onboard.

Need more information and support in hiring a VA? Reach out to Dianne directly at dianne@mayihelpyou.ca; she really is a fount of knowledge and experience!

Until next time,

PS If you missed it, last week I was Shaken and Stirred about buyer behavior.

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