What Skills Make a World-Class Virtual Assistant?
Introduction: Hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA) is a strategic move to grow your business. But beyond a resume, what are the core skills that separate an average assistant from a truly great one? A great VA doesn’t just complete tasks; they add real value through a unique blend of technical ability and professional soft skills. This guide breaks down the five essential skills you should look for in your next hire.
The 5 Essential Skills to Look For
1. Flawless Communication A great VA is a master communicator. This means excellent written and spoken English, a professional and polite tone in all dealings, and the ability to convey information clearly and concisely. Poor communication leads to misunderstandings and mistakes; flawless communication is the foundation of a successful remote partnership.
2. Tech-Savvy & Proactive Learning Your VA will be working in a digital environment. They must have good computer knowledge, including basic troubleshooting and a strong commitment to data security. Look for someone who is “software-savvy”—not just familiar with current tools, but able to learn new software quickly and proactively.
3. Professionalism & Self-Management A top-tier VA is a self-starter who manages their time and emotions professionally. This skill, sometimes called ‘intrapersonal intelligence,’ is about self-control, reliability, and the ability to work effectively and harmoniously within a team, even from a remote location. They are organized, dependable, and consistently professional.
4. Initiative & Problem-Solving A good VA follows instructions. A great VA shows initiative. The most valuable assistants don’t just wait for the next task; they actively look for ways to improve processes and solve problems, becoming a true strategic partner in your business.
5. Core Administrative Excellence Beyond the soft skills, a VA must be excellent at the fundamentals. This includes mastery of core administrative tasks like calendar management, email organization, travel arrangements, and document preparation.
How to Guarantee You Get All 5 Skills
Finding an individual who embodies all these skills can be a long and difficult process. That’s why a managed outsourcing solution is the smartest choice.
At Phil Labor, our rigorous recruitment process specifically vets candidates for these five essential skills. We then provide them with ongoing training and professional management to ensure they are consistently performing at their best. We handle the hard work of finding and managing the best talent, so you can benefit from a world-class VA from day one.
