Being a virtual assistant (VA) comes with unique challenges because can you imagine offering support to clients from thousands of miles away?
Still, it hasn’t stopped many people from applying and working as VAs. To the point that some clients think they’re a dime a dozen.
The best way to combat this is to develop yourself as an asset to the company.
Here are several ways to increase your value as a VA.
Meet Deadlines and Performance Goals
The first thing you need to do is meet your client’s expectations.
The onboarding period is your best chance to ask questions too. Make sure to clarify what your clients need you to do, and how they would measure your ability to deliver.
It should go without saying, but be sure to complete your tasks on time without compromising their quality.
Anticipate Your Client’s Needs
While it’s impossible to read anyone’s mind, you can still anticipate your client’s needs as a virtual assistant.
Show that you are one step ahead of them by offering sound suggestions or taking initiative.
This skill might not come naturally at first, but observing company processes will definitely help you develop this trait.
Look For Opportunities to Grow
There’s always a new technology or technique in the market.
So, if you want to become more valuable, keep yourself up-to-date with these tools.
You can either request training from your remote managers or enroll in free online courses.
Expanding or enhancing your skills helps you stay competitive in the ever-changing job market.
Plus, you get to perform additional tasks at work, which you can use as leverage for a salary increase.
Demonstrate an Excellent Work Ethic
Virtual assistant jobs require a strong work ethic.
You will need to be both proactive and accountable.
While you can ask questions, don’t expect a lot of hand-holding from your clients as a virtual assistant.
They’ll often expect you to get to speed within weeks.
Further, you should be able to work with minimal supervision while turning in quality output.
Lastly, VAs should display high levels of organizational skills and time management.
They do handle several tasks all at once, after all.
Hone Your Skills to Become an Expert
Becoming an expert in your field is another way to increase your value.
You can start by focusing on your niche and then upskilling.
Or you can also learn a new skill set to supplement your current one.
It’d be hard to replace you if you’re the only one who can perform a specific task exceedingly well.
Stay Positive
Don’t forget to maintain a positive attitude as you work online.
You’ll likely encounter challenges and conflicts in the workplace—and make your fair share of mistakes.
However, don’t dwell on these so much. Instead, use it as a learning experience to do better next time around.
Becoming a Valuable Virtual Assistant
Today’s employment landscape has become even more cutthroat (especially since people now have to compete with AI as well).
If you want to hold on to your job, you should start increasing your value at work now.
Think you’re up for the challenge of becoming a virtual assistant? Head on to Remote Staff’s job listings. It currently has a lot of vacant positions in several industries, so you’re sure to find something that fits you.
Register today!
