Virtual assistants provide administrative support for companies and clients. They work remotely and typically work on an hourly basis, completing a variety of tasks based on their client’s needs.
While virtual assistants have the freedom to choose their own schedules, recruiters look for candidates who can communicate clearly with their clients. These skills help a virtual assistant build a strong reputation with clients and can win them more jobs down the road.
Oral and Written Communication Skills
Communication skills are a must-have for virtual assistants. They need to be able to communicate with their employers efficiently and effectively through emails, phone calls, and messaging platforms such as Skype, Messenger, and Viber.
Writing skills are also essential for virtual assistants to perform their tasks, which may include preparing reports and presentations for clients. They should be able to write in a way that is clear and free of errors, making them easy to read.
They also need to be able to communicate effectively with clients and vendors through email, telephone conversations, or chat services. This will ensure that the client and the VA understand each other’s roles and responsibilities.
They should also be able to listen attentively, especially with instructions from the client that need strict compliance. This ability can improve their selling and conflict resolution skills, as well as their customer satisfaction level.
Time Management Skills
Time management skills are a necessity for virtual assistants. VAs often work with multiple clients at once so they need to be able to manage their time well.
They also need to be able to prioritize tasks and ensure they are completed on time. This means being able to set realistic deadlines and communicate these clearly.
Communication is a key part of any job and a virtual assistant needs to have excellent oral and written communication skills. This includes being able to create and send emails, write reports and presentations and talk on the phone with clients.
They also need to be able to take breaks during their workday. This helps them to recharge and increase their creativity.
Computer Skills
Virtual assistants need a wide range of computer skills to carry out their duties. This includes proficiency in managing email inboxes and using cloud-based communication, such as file sharing and teleconferencing.
Word processing skills are also important, as this is one of the most common tasks performed by VAs. They need to be able to produce documents that are professional and free of errors.
In addition to writing, VAs often use computer applications for data entry and research. They need to have basic computing knowledge and be able to operate programs such as Microsoft Excel, Access and PowerPoint.
In addition to being able to use a computer for work, VAs need to be disciplined and motivated in their job. This requires them to turn up for work on time and complete their duties in a timely manner.
Social Media Management
Social media is a critical part of online marketing and can help you build a large audience. It requires consistent monitoring and posting, engagement with your audience, and generating leads.
VAs with social media management skills can help you with all of these tasks and more. They can also create a strategy for your business and make suggestions that are practical.
A good social media virtual assistant can handle a variety of accounts, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. They can post regularly, respond to comments, and even conduct research.
Hiring a VA with this skill set will give you a competitive advantage in your field. They can learn new trends quickly and keep you on an even playing field with other businesses. Plus, they can take a lot of administrative tasks off your hands so you can focus on other aspects of growing your business.
