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No one knows your business as you do. That’s why it’s hard handing off responsibilities to an employee, even when you know it’s the only way you’re going to be able to grow. Hiring a virtual assistant can be even more daunting because you don’t have the benefit of working together side by side. How can you tell this person will be the best fit for your business? 

While there’s never a foolproof way to hire, asking these questions can help you choose a remote assistant with confidence. 

1. Describe your ideal work environment

The answer you’re looking for isn’t ‘remote work.’ That’s already standard among VAs and remote offshore workers. A better response will include a preferred schedule, tools, ways of communicating, and even hints about the type of company culture they fit in with. If your needs don’t align with their ideal work environment, the relationship might still work but keep in mind that they may leave you for another client if they find a better fit elsewhere.  

2. How do you prefer to communicate?

People communicate in different ways. Some have embraced tools like Slack while others still prefer old-fashioned email. It’s important that you and your VA are on the same page when it comes to communication expectations. If your preferences don’t align, your VA could be stepping outside of their comfort zone or their default mode of communication, which could mean delays and mixups.  

3. Have you managed, hired, and/or fired other employees?

This is a great question even if your VA won’t be hiring, firing, or managing any employees for you. Why? Because it shows that your VA has a unique perspective on business that not all VAs will have.  

This perspective can be highly beneficial because it shows they likely think like a manager, not just an order taker. They’re likely more suited to work autonomously, make judgment calls, and care about your business almost as much as you do. Plus, they’ll do what it takes to get things done. 

4. What would you do if you had too many assignments or didn’t understand a task I gave you?

This question focuses on time management and trust. You need to be able to trust your VA’s abilities and that they’ll follow through on deadlines. Their answer to this question can be very telling. 

For example, if they have to think about it and make a hypothetical guess, chances are they’re thinking about this for the first time. In other words, they’re not sure what they’d do in this situation. That could leave you in a bind. 

But if they say with confidence that they would speak out and ask for help or more time, take them at their word. You can also share your expectations for how to proceed in this type of situation. 

Ready to extend your business with a remote worker? Get in touch today!