While every business is different, it is good to figure out what you would need a Virtual Assistant to help you with. It may be a challenge because you have to be comfortable with outsourcing items, while at the same time being able to train someone to do it.

To start, you should make a list of what you do for yourself…..

Here is an example of what you can start with:

Daily Tasks

Email Management

Make Appointments

Reminders

Social Media Posting

Blog Comment Management

Email Management

Weekly Tasks

Bookkeeping – As Needed

Research Projects

Travel Arrangements

Data Entry…and the list can go on……

Figuring out what you want from a Virtual Assistant is probably the most value-added task you can do prior to looking for a Virtual Assistant – and it can really help you in the selection process.

Now that you have a list of what you do, you will be able to more effectively leverage hiring a Virtual Assistant. While many people may go to a recruiting company to find a Virtual Assistant, if you are reading this article – well you have found one already! Why not start right here!

The problem with a Recruiting Company is sometimes they are Not Reputable and many charge a very large fee.

A good source to find Virtual Assistants is on Linkedin.

Many recruiters of the largest companies use this tool to find qualified candidates, so why shouldn’t you?

You can do this one of two ways:

1.  Look for a VA on Linkedin.

2.  Post a Job on Linkedin.

The benefits of using Linkedin is that you can see their experience, where they have worked, schooling they have done. It is like viewing a resume before asking for one. Then you can request to connect with them and speak with them via Linkedin.

Next – just as you would with any candidate ask them for references.

Then – set up an interview them on a tool like Skype.

For the interview put together a solid set of interview questions:

– What experience do you have in the following areas or using the following tools… (utilized your task list that that you created to finish this sentence)?

– What is your work experience and experience being a virtual assistant?

– What is your preferred method of communication?

All of these questions are key to understanding your virtual assistant and seeing if they would be a good fit for you and your business.

A good rule of thumb to remember is that a Virtual Assistant may not know every application out there. We all know that every day new apps, tools, etc. are created. But – the key – is your Virtual Assistant willing to learn new applications? Most are, most have to, after all that is what a Virtual Assistant does. So be willing to be patient – it will pay off in the long run.

Feel free to view my Linkedin page: www.linkedin.com/pub/evonne-marie-lopes/63/528/6a8/  and see my experience.

Or view my website at www.yourworkassistant.com.

Happy Recruiting!

Some pointers were taken from http://beatthe9to5.com and his experience of hiring a virtual assistant.