If you’re a virtual assistant, it’s not enough to just be good at what you do. You need to show your employer how they can get more value out of their VA by giving them more than they expect and making sure they have everything ready when they need it.

Here are some ways to do that:

1. Use your communication skills at every opportunity

As a VA, you can never be too clear and concise. Whether it’s clarifying directions or making appointments, make sure that the client understands exactly what to expect from you. If there’s a step in your process that’s unclear, ask them if they have any questions about it before moving on to the next step. Use a friendly tone of voice when talking with clients—never be condescending or too formal; this will come off as fake and unappealing to most people (yes, even those who are at home). It shows that you care about their needs as much as they do.

2. Make sure your systems are in place to impress

Have a good project management system in place. A well-managed project will help keep everyone on track and make sure that work gets done on time, which will impress clients who are likely to be busy themselves.

Make sure you also have a good time tracking system so you know what tasks need to be taken on throughout the day/weekend/etc., and how long each task took (and therefore how much money you’re owed).

Lastly, make sure billing is automated—and if possible, integrated with other systems such as invoicing systems or CRMs—so payment comes automatically from client accounts without having any human interaction at all.

3. Be adaptable

It’s important to be flexible and open to change. If you’re not willing to adapt, you won’t succeed. Adaptation isn’t something that can be taught in one day or even one year—it takes time, patience and practice to develop this skill.

Adapting means being open to new ideas and learning from them as well as trying out new things on your own without judgment or criticism from others (and yes, this does include your client).

4. Consider online courses that can teach you new skills or to brush up on old ones

There are many options available these days, and it’s easy to find one that suits your needs. Find a course relevant to your current situation (if you’re just starting out) or you can find one that will help grow in your career (if this is an area where growth opportunities exist). Some courses also offer certifications so you have something to show your clients to impress and leverage for a promotion or a raise.

5. Demonstrate what you’re capable of

When there’s an opportunity to show what you’re capable of, show them what you can do straight away. This is the best way to impress your clients and build a good rapport with them.

When it comes down to it, being able to demonstrate your skills will help clients feel more confident about hiring you as their virtual assistant. They may also be more willing to pay higher rates for the work that only someone with experience can deliver.

6. Think of long term goals

You should never take on a commitment that is not in line with your core values or long-term professional or personal goals.

If you’re thinking about taking on an extra job, ask yourself if this will help you achieve your goals: Is it going to make me more money? Do I need the extra income? Am I giving up something else in order to do this additional work?

7. Know your strengths and weaknesses

Every virtual assistant has unique strengths and weaknesses, and it’s important to know them. If you’re a great writer but don’t have the best organizational skills, it’s better to focus on delivering high-quality content than trying to be a good organizer. A great way to figure out what your strengths are is by looking at the work that you’ve done in the past. What do clients really appreciate about your services? Are there certain tasks that come easily for you or take much more effort? By knowing these things about yourself, as well as what clients need from their VA (and vice versa), it will be easier for both parties involved in any project relationship—you’ll know exactly where each party stands relative to each other.

Be a Virtual Assistant with Remote Workmate

Jumpstart your career at Remote Workmate! We’re a remote staffing agency that specializes in connecting Filipino Virtual Assistants with clients from the US, UK, and Australia. We also help with onboarding so that you and your client can both have a smooth working relationship moving forward, giving you a sustainable career. We provide HR and payroll services as well to make sure you have excellent working conditions and get your salary on time.

What are you waiting for? Apply now!