The Top 4 Skills Needed by a Virtual Assistant

We have already established that having a virtual assistant is a cost-effective way to successfully run most small to medium enterprises. Let’s have a closer look at the skillset needed by an effective virtual assistant.

Effective Communication

Being well-spoken, and having exceptional writing skills are non-negotiables when working as a Virtual Assistant. As there is very limited to no physical contact, clients must mostly rely on emails, phone calls, messaging platforms, and video calls to communicate. An ability to write and speak effectively and effortlessly provides a positive experience to all who communicate through the virtual assistant, this will in turn results in positive feedback for the business.

Resourcefulness

Virtual Assistants need to be incredibly resourceful. This may involve a lot of research and problem solving — finding solutions to some everyday problems that clients face. It is not uncommon for clients to need help with replying to emails and managing social media accounts. Knowing how to perform these tasks requires information that is sometimes hard to find. Virtual assistants who are ready and willing to do this work are highly valued by employers and it shows in the remuneration packages.

Extreme Attention to Detail

Because a Virtual Assistant can work for multiple companies simultaneously, one must be extremely detail-oriented, and have a keen eye to spot any mistakes. This relates to online communication, as well as all other forms of writing, where typos and tense or spelling mistakes will compromise a company’s professional image. Virtual assistants must take all necessary steps at all times to ensure they understand the client’s instructions and perform them exactly as prescribed.

Organisation

Being exceptionally organised when working with various clients’ documents and information is extremely important. Also keeping each individual clients’ information easily accessible will help a Virtual Assistant keep to a rigorous schedule. Business owners commonly enlist the help of an assistant to manage factual items like client information, birthdays, holiday and leave schedules, appointments, reminders etc. They may also have access to, and in some instances manage, a company’s social media accounts. Experienced virtual assistants have systems in place that help them keep everything in it’s place, and help them stay abreast of any important changes.

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