If you’re a small business owner juggling a million and one tasks, chances are you’ve considered hiring a UK-based Virtual Assistant (VA). Whether it’s to lighten your admin load, keep your inbox under control, or simply give you the breathing space to focus on growing your business, the right VA can be a game-changer.
But what makes a good Virtual Assistant? What should you look for when choosing a Virtual Assistant for your business, what qualities should a VA have, and also importantly, what red flags should you avoid? Let’s break it down.
Traits Every Good Virtual Assistant Should Have
1. Strong Communication Skills
Clear, timely, and professional communication is vital. A good VA will keep you in the loop without you needing to chase them. They’ll ask the right questions, update you when tasks are complete, and know when to check in for clarification.
Why it matters: Miscommunication wastes time. When your VA communicates well, things run smoothly – and you can relax knowing things are under control.
2. Proactive Approach
A great VA won’t just wait for instructions. They’ll spot opportunities to make your processes smoother, suggest better ways of doing things, and flag issues before they become problems.
Why it matters: You’re busy – you need someone who can think ahead, not just tick boxes.
3. Tech Confidence
Virtual Assistants work online, so being tech aware is a must. Whether it’s using cloud storage, booking systems, CRMs (client relationship management), or automation tools – a good VA will either know how to use them or be confident learning quickly.
Why it matters: The more tech-literate your VA is, the more they can take off your plate efficiently.
4. Organised
This goes without saying – but strong organisational skills are a non-negotiable. Your VA should be the person who keeps things on track, stays on top of deadlines, and helps you stay one step ahead.
Why it matters: When things are organised behind the scenes, your business runs more smoothly – and it shows in your client experience too.
5. Descretion and Reliability
Trust is essential. Your VA will likely have access to sensitive information and business details. A good VA will treat your business with care and confidentiality, and always deliver on their promises.
Why it matters: You need to know you can rely on them – no chasing, no surprises, just steady support.
What to Avoid When Hiring a Virtual Assistant
Just as important as knowing what to look for is being aware of what to avoid. Here are a few warning signs:
- Vague communication or poor response times
- Reluctance to learn new tools or systems
- Lack of initiative or a “just tell me what to do” attitude
- Missed deadlines or unreliable scheduling
- Not respecting boundaries or confidentiality
If your VA is creating more stress than they’re solving, it’s time to rethink the fit.
So, Why Work With Me?
When you work with me, you’re not just hiring someone to manage your inbox or chase invoices. You’re getting a professional who genuinely cares about helping your business succeed.
I bring structure, calm, and clarity to your day – freeing you up to focus on what you do best. I’m proactive, highly organised, and confident working with the tools that keep your business ticking along.
Whether you need help managing admin, streamlining your processes, or just creating more space in your working day – I’m here to make your life easier, less stressful, and more productive.
And because you only pay for the time you need, it’s a flexible and cost-effective way to get professional support without the commitment of a full-time employee.
In Summary
A good Virtual Assistant is more than just a helping hand. The right VA will bring clarity, consistency, and calm to your working day.
If that sounds like the kind of support you need, let’s chat. I’d love to find out how I can help your business thrive.
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