How to choose the right virtual assistant

Not every virtual assistant fits every business. Use the checklist below to make a well-considered choice.

The 6 most important criteria

1. Experience and specialisms. Do the skills match the tasks you want to outsource? A broad VA covers multiple fields.
2. Communication. Do you get quick, clear answers? A reply within 24 hours and one fixed point of contact prevent noise.
3. Data security. Is work done on secure networks with data on European servers, and is a non-disclosure agreement possible?
4. Languages. Do you work internationally? Multilingual support (such as NL, EN and SV) is then a plus.
5. Rates and terms. Are the prices transparent, with no hidden costs or long-term contract?
6. Click and flexibility. Does the collaboration feel right and can you start small to try it out?

Questions to ask in an introductory call

• Which tasks and industries do you have experience with?
• How and how quickly do you communicate?
• How do you handle my data and passwords?
• Can I start small and scale up later?
• What do you need from me to get off to a good start?

What to watch out for?

• Unclear or shifting rates and mandatory long contracts.
• Slow or vague communication during the introductory call — that predicts the collaboration.
• No agreements on data security or confidentiality.
• No option to start small or evaluate.

Ready to choose? Follow the step-by-step plan to hire a VA or book an introductory call directly.