Virtual Assistance is a fantastic solution for business owners seeking ongoing, continuous, collaborative-style administrative support--as long as the right understandings and expectations are in place. It's not the miracle cure for
everyone and every business. Indeed, there are some businesses and clients that are not a good fit for the Virtual Assistance solution.

Today, I want to talk a little about those who are best suited to work with a Virtual Assistant. The Virtual Assistant and client dynamic works best if the client has the following traits:

1. Somewhat technically savvy. You don’t have to be an expert on every program out there; but, you should
at least be proficient with email and have a basic understanding of the Internet. You should also be willing to
learn and grow in your computer knowledge as needed.

2. Able to communicate well. You will be in close contact with your Virtual Assistant (usually through email)
so it is important to be able to state your expectations, deadlines, and other matters clearly. If you are
unable or unwilling to talk about your needs and desires for your business, how will you expect your Virtual
Assistant to assist you effectively?

3. Willing to let go. If you are controlling, arrogant or have a strong need to micromanage, there is no way a
Virtual Assistant will be able to support you. She needs the freedom to do her work without the constant
“mother hen” or “big brother” over her shoulder checking her work.

4. Willing to trust. Along the same lines, the Virtual Assistant/client partnership will prove to be difficult if you
have trust issues. Trust is essential when dealing with any relationship; however, it is critical in virtual
relationships. You are not there to see her as she works, so you must be willing to believe that she will do
what she says she will.

5. Willing to delegate. If you are always thinking that you have to do this or that yourself, you will defeat the
purpose of partnering with a Virtual Assistant. There are many, many things that you can pass on to a Virtual
Assistant (or other expert, as the case may be). If you aren’t sure if something can be delegated, just ask. A
top-notch Virtual Assistant will have her own systems for the delegation process and will make suggestions
on how she can support you--listen!

6. Willing to put systems in place. The Virtual Assistant/client relationship does not work well if you are in a
constant state of emergency/stress/chaos and have constant urgent deadlines. Virtual Assistants aren’t
always readily available. They usually have more than one client and need to organize their work so as to be
the most efficient and effective as possible. It is important for you to communicate well, give ample time for
turnaround when delegating projects, and allow your Virtual Assistant to put systems in place

7. Respects and appreciates the partnership. If you only view Virtual Assistants as employees or slave
labor, the relationship will not thrive. Virtual Assistants are business owners and experts in administrative
assisting. They are NOT low-end employees and should not be treated as such.