by heather2 » Fri Nov 10, 2006 3:29 pm
Lynn, there are a lot of struggles in working with a VA, but a lot of benefits too. I have a couple that I use for different things (not including graphic-type tasks). I know the strengths of each of them and assign tasks accordingly. It's not always smooth sailing but it definitely is more efficient than me doing the work myself.
The learning curve varies with each VA but my siggestion would be to start with something easy. See how they follow direction and follow-thru. Maybe like article submissions, or something like that.
Once you're pleased with that, then move on to something more complicated. Yes, you'll have to ask them to correct things the first time around but then they get the hang of it.
One thing that has worked for me is to get referrals from people you know. Ask how easy they are to work with and all. It's probably not the best thing to just pick a complete stranger whom who have no knowledge of at all.
I used to work as a VA myself and now I'm their Affiliate Manager, along with running my own businesses. VA money is well-spent.
I think that once you get over the hurdle of getting them to do things your way, then it would run much more smoothly. Trust is a major factor - that's where referrals come into play.
Just my 2 cents. Hope it helps!
Heather