As small business owners we take on a lot of responsibility by running a business on our own. In the beginning stages, it’s tough but you have a plan and are so ready to get it off the ground. You usually only need to get the basics done and the job is slightly manageable. When you get established and the workload increases, it can be next to impossible to do everything yourself. Or if you are getting it all done, it is not up to the high standard you started out with.
Every business doesn’t need a large number of employees. Sometimes all that’s needed is some help with administrative tasks. In these cases, an assistant could be the perfect solution. Many of these assistants are called VA’s or virtual assistants.
VA’s can handle a variety of tasks. Each person has a slightly different skill set, but most can handle almost anything related to the day-to-day operations of a business. Some can also do tasks such as web design and copywriting or you may just need your daily emails gone through and replied to. Whatever tasks you prefer not to do are what you should add to your list to hire out.
Finding the perfect assistant could be the best thing that has ever happened to your business. Here are some things to consider when searching:
1. Do you need an in-office assistant or a virtual assistant? If you need someone to file hard copies or perform other duties that can’t be done over a computer, you’ll need an in-house assistant. In-office assistants can also do the packing of your orders and run to the post office. If these are things you need done regularly, this can be a tremendous help. Otherwise, a virtual assistant might be the best option and is the option that I use personally.
2. There are a variety of ways that you could go about finding an assistant. Virtual assistants often have websites and offer services through online classifieds and job boards. You could also post a help wanted ad on an online job board. Also if you frequent WAHM message boards and have made friends with members, this is a good place to ask. I was very thankful that I have a friend that I’ve known for a few years step into the roll. I have full faith in handing all my passwords to her and I know that the job will be completed as I would have. For in-house assistants, you could publicize your opening through the local classifieds, the employment commission, or word of mouth. This is where joining Mom groups or local networking groups will help you a lot.
3. Fellow small business owners may be a good source of recommendations. If you’re taking your search online, business networking groups are a good place to start. Word of mouth is always best and if you can get someone to recommend their assistant you are golden!
4. Once you’ve found some candidates, interview them. Ask for work samples if applicable, and get references from each candidate. When you’re entrusting something as important as your business to someone, it’s important to know that she is capable and trustworthy. You may use a employee performance evaluations to help you decide between candidates.
5. Once you’ve narrowed the field, consider whether you and your potential assistants’ personalities mesh well. An assistant is someone who you’ll be working closely with on a daily basis, so it is vital for the two of you to be able to get along.
6. If you’re having trouble deciding on an assistant, you could hire the front runners to do some work as independent contractors. This will allow you to go ahead and get some work done while helping you reach a decision.
Running a business is an ongoing job. While administration is a necessity, it can take away time that could be used doing more productive things. When we have someone looking after the everyday tasks of running a business, we can concentrate on increasing our profits. So in the long run, we can often bring in more money with an assistant than we could have without one. The saying is true, you have to spend some money to make a lot.
