When selecting a virtual assistant agency, look for one that specializes in the services your business needs. They should offer a clear and concise process for hiring VAs, including a vetting process, interviews, skill assessments and reporting. It’s also important to confirm that the agency can work with clients across different time zones, especially if you require real-time communication.
A competent VA can help you manage email overload by screening emails, responding or forwarding based on specific criteria and managing your contact list (adding new people as needed). They may also handle social media management tasks for you, including posting to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.
The Pros and Cons of Hiring Through a Virtual Assistant Agency
Another task a virtual assistant can take on is scheduling appointments. For instance, they can make phone calls to schedule medical appointments or book restaurant reservations. They can also schedule meetings and conferences for you or your team. If a call or meeting has to be rescheduled, they can do so and send the updated invitations.
A VA can perform many other duties, such as conducting research for a business project or finding potential partners and opportunities through online networking. They can also do basic website maintenance, upload content and monitor site performance. For clients who require more advanced marketing support, they can help with email campaigns, customer support, and even e-commerce order management. They can even assist with affiliate programs, providing reporting on campaign performance and tracking. In addition, they can handle a variety of admin duties like scheduling meetings, travel arrangements, and paying personal bills.