A virtual assistant performs a wide range of administrative tasks that include responding to phone calls, emails or live chats, scheduling meetings, booking travel arrangements and more.
You can hire a virtual assistant for providing assistance with different tasks ranging from customer support to technical to clerical services. The assistant can also be hired to handle billing/accounting, for preparing meeting materials and take transcription.
Need and Applications of the Service
Different industries or individuals can have different needs from virtual assistants for hire. Their services may be required for customer service support, calendar management, travel and meeting coordination and arrangements, or processing orders. They can also work as personal assistants who coordinate marketing processes that span website/blog management, social media accounts management and/or creating or managing online content.
Services Provided by a Virtual Assistant
The responsibilities of office assistants can vary based on many factors. They can be expected to respond to phone calls and emails, book accommodations and travel, and schedule meetings. They can conduct market research, maintain contact lists, offer customer service, create presentations and/or prepare spreadsheets or maintain online records.
They may also take transcription and manage correspondence. A virtual assistant for hire can also handle accounting and billing, prepare meeting agendas and proposals. Qualified virtual assistants may also work as legal assistants.
How to Find the Right Virtual Assistant for Hire
A quality virtual assistant freelancer should have proven experience in the relevant role. They should be familiar with the latest technologies including cloud services, desktop sharing and VoIP (voice over internet protocol). The expert should have experience in managing online calendars such as Google Calendar. You should hire a virtual assistant who is experienced in using MS Office and other relevant word-processing applications. It is important to have an understanding of business operations, covering business creation, marketing, budgeting and contracts. Knowledge of basic office equipment is also important.
They should have excellent communication skills and etiquette for email, phone and chatting. They should be well-organized, and have strong time-management skills and customer service expertise. The right executive assistants will be able to work independently from remote locations. You should look for someone who is proactive and can take initiatives to help you succeed. It is also important to have strong interpersonal skills because the job requires interaction with people over different mediums.
Guru Tip: Guru is one of the best freelancer sites to find virtual assistants for hire. The individual Work Rooms feature allows you to easily keep track of your freelancer’s progress.
Find the perfect virtual assistant on Guru, post a job for free here.