If you are looking for a virtual assistant, or VA, you know that they can help you or hurt you just as easily. Just like when you hire the wrong employee, this can backfire on you if you have the wrong person. People say “hire slow and fire fast” because this is true. If a person doesn’t know what to do when hiring a VA, then it will be hard to do it in a methodical manner. Asking the right questions of your prospective VA are things you need to have ready. There are some questions that you will probably think to ask, but others you won’t. You may have to wait a while to receive replies from references, but be sure you contact them and verify.
You should only contact people who have some kind of resume of relevant work experience. Oftentimes, there will be someone on the forum that will look like someone that could get the job done. Some VAs are located in odd places, and may be the perfect person for the job despite where you find them. Always take the time to ask VA’s about what they have done in the past, and the work they have accomplished. It’s always a good idea to listen to what the perspective virtual assistant has to say to learn more about them. You need to hire people with relevant industry experience. This way, the job will get done right.
Don’t jump in with both feet – this is what you don’t want to do when hiring VA’s. If you do hire them, give them a small project so you can see what kind of work to do. The VA needs to complete the job, and while they are working, you can evaluate them. Creating a positive impression is something that everyone wants to do. When you are doing this, you may not be able to get the hang of this right away. They will more than likely want to know how much work will be available. Be honest and tell the truth.
If you do business in the US, have your VA sign a general contract. If you pay out over a certain amount in a year, a 1099 needs to be submitted. But this requirement only applies if both parties are residing in the US. Working with this person, you need to let the government know. The form is how you do this.
And you really need to do this because it will protect you. This keeps you from having to pay the taxes for your VA. That’s why you file it. Unless you were audited, you would probably never have to pay. By doing this, you are protecting your business and income by filing this paper. In conclusion, your goal is to learn as much as you can about hiring a VA before you actually start the process. Researching the topic (how to successively hire VA’s) is something you need to do as your business continues to expand. You can go to Amazon to learn about how to hire a VA. There are many books on the topic, plus information on the web. This investment in your business can help you get the right VA for your business, saving you time and money along the way.
