5. Professionalism
The professionalism in which the Virtual Assistant guides you through the first conversation is very essential in determining his attitude towards his work. Apart from skilled Virtual Assistant who can provide good service, you also need someone who exhibits brilliant business sense.

6. Experience
That’s the most important qualification a good Virtual Assistant has. Extensive administrative experience gives a Virtual Assistant an edge above the other service providers. From the level of experience, he or she is expected to possess the superior skills, training and business knowledge that are the hallmark of a truly qualified Virtual Assistant.

7. Training and Certifications
These add to the personal qualifications of the Virtual Assistant. Well trained and certified person is expected to have a dignified level of knowledge and expertise. But too much of importance to trainings and certifications of the Virtual Assistant might not be fruitful as no certification is going to guarantee competence. There has been a proliferation in recent years of disreputable and unqualified opportunists willing to “certify” anyone willing to pay.

8. Testimonials
Browse the testimonials on the company website. They give a fair idea about what the clients think about the particular Virtual Assistant. If the person writing a testimonial has left his contact details or the company name it authenticates the testimonials.

9. Trial
Posting a small job as a test is the best way to assure the perfect business partner for your organization. Just chose one particular task, and post a job for that one. You get a chance to establish a working relationship with the concerned. Alternatively you can also ask for some sample work to be emailed.

Finally the person you would choose will be representing you so weigh the prospect in all directions. Apart from someone who delivers good work, you need someone you can trust, someone who will be able to handle your requests, and someone who will do the job efficiently, on time, and preferably, with a smile and friendly word.

Virtual Assistants are your business partners. They assist you in the effective and efficient growth of your business. Their selection thus is crucial to your organization’s future. Investment of some time, money and thought at the beginning of such a vital relationship will yield the potential profit.

Following should be the considerations while hiring a Virtual Assistant-

1. Website
Since Virtual Assistants operate virtually its important they have a website. A well thought and presented informative website determines the Virtual Assistant’s expertise. If the website is full of sloppy writing and improper grammar and punctuation do not expect professionalism from the concerned.

2. Consultation
Once the website instils confidence about the Virtual Assistant try and have a conversation with him/her.  You can use the website’s personal message board (if any), set up a phone call if possible or set up a video conference over Skype or using one of the free online conference sites. This initial conversation could help in clearing up many doubts and establishing a rapport with the prospective partner.

3. Budget
Virtual Assistants have a varied range of budget expectations. You have to find the one who best fits in yours. Consider your requirements and budget both while looking for the business partnership. Do not partner with the Virtual Assistant solely because he fits into the budget. That would be detrimental to your business.

4. Technology
Take a note of the common modes of communication that are being used by the prospect. These include: Internet, Email and Phone call conferences, Workspace and of course Fax machine. Be assured that these are at the optimum standards so that you are not making any compromise in your business. Technical evaluation of the facilities is one of the important factors affecting success in the call centre industry.

To be continued…