What to Look for When Hiring a VA!

So, you’re thinking about hiring a virtual assistant (VA)? That’s awesome! Bringing on a VA can be a total game changer for your business—especially if you’re finding yourself swamped with tasks that are eating up your time. But, how do you know if you’re hiring the right person? Here are some things I’ve learned (both from being a VA and working with clients) that you might want to keep in mind when looking for the perfect fit.

1. Find Someone Who Knows Your Industry

Trust me, this can save you SO much time. Sure, you could hire a general VA, but if you work in a niche industry—like healthcare, for example—it’s way easier if your VA already understands the lingo and the systems you use. Imagine not having to explain what “HIPAA compliance” means or how to schedule an appointment in Jane App. A VA who’s been there, done that can jump in and start helping you right away.

2. Communication is Key

This is huge! You want someone who’s good at keeping the lines of communication open. You don’t want to be left wondering if something is done or having to chase them for updates. A VA who’s quick to respond, asks the right questions, and keeps you in the loop is worth their weight in gold. Plus, tools like Slack or Google Meet make staying connected super easy, even when working remotely.

3. They’ve Gotta Be Organized

Let’s be real—things get busy. A good VA is someone who knows how to juggle a million things without dropping the ball. Ask them how they keep themselves organized—do they use tools like Trello or ClickUp? If they can show you how they manage their time and keep track of tasks, that’s a solid sign they’ll help keep your business running smoothly.

4. They Should Be Tech-Savvy

A tech-savvy VA can make your life so much easier. Whether it’s managing your email marketing or scheduling social media posts, you want someone who’s comfortable with the tools and software you use—or at least willing to learn them quickly. These days, having some basic design skills (like using Canva) or knowing how to navigate platforms like WordPress is a huge plus!

5. Look for Problem-Solvers

Things are going to pop up—whether it’s a scheduling conflict or a tech issue. You want someone who can figure things out without needing you to hold their hand every step of the way. Ask your potential VA how they handle problems when they arise. It’ll give you a pretty good sense of how resourceful and proactive they are, which is exactly what you want in a VA.

6. Attention to Detail is Everything

Let’s be honest, no one wants mistakes, especially when it comes to important things like client communications or payments. You need someone who’s detail-oriented and can handle tasks without constant oversight. Make sure they have a solid track record of being thorough and accurate—it’ll save you a ton of headaches down the line.

7. Trust is a Must

This one is super important. Your VA will have access to a lot of sensitive info—client data, business details, maybe even financials. You need to be able to trust them 100%. Check their references, read reviews, or just have an honest conversation about how they handle confidential information. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

8. Adaptability is Key

Let’s face it, things change. Maybe your business grows, or you start using new tools—your VA should be able to roll with the punches. Look for someone who’s flexible and willing to learn new skills or adjust to new workflows. Having a VA who can evolve with your business will make things run so much more smoothly.

Wrapping Up

Hiring the right VA can seriously take a load off your shoulders, but it’s all about finding the right person for the job. Look for someone who knows your industry, communicates well, stays organized, and is tech-savvy. And don’t forget—they need to be someone you can trust, who pays attention to the details, and can adapt when things change.

Take your time during the hiring process, ask lots of questions, and trust your gut. When you find the right VA, they’re not just an assistant—they’re a real partner in helping your business thrive!

Thanks for reading!

Chanel, VA