What Executives Really Look for in Virtual Assistants: Insights into Indispensable Qualities

Executives looking for virtual assistants (VAs) are increasingly relying on their skills to manage both professional and personal tasks efficiently. Here’s an in-depth look at what business leaders truly seek from VAs, to enhance their overall productivity:

Proactive Support:

One of the most crucial roles a virtual assistant can play is in managing time-consuming personal tasks that can detract from an executive’s focus on strategic initiatives. According to a guide from Prialto, these include responsibilities like “shopping for gifts, scheduling personal appointments, paying bills, planning family vacations, and making dinner reservations” (Prialto) . By handling these aspects, VAs enable executives to better concentrate on what truly matters for their professional success.

Technical and Specialised Skills:

In today’s digital age, the scope of a VA’s role extends beyond traditional clerical work to include specialised technical tasks. As pointed out by industry insights, this can range from “graphic design, web design and development, accounting, content writing, search engine optimisation, to project management” (Prialto) . These skills are critical as they allow VAs to support broader business functions and contribute significantly to strategic projects.

Trust and In-depth Business Understanding:

Effective management of emails and calendars is foundational to a VA’s role, requiring more than just organisational skills—it demands a deep understanding of the executive’s business. This involves a high level of trust and insight into business priorities, as managing these elements a ects key relationships and strategic time management.

Effective Communication and Interpersonal Skills:

The ability to facilitate smooth communication is paramount. As noted, VAs must serve as effective intermediaries, ensuring that communications are both prompt and accurate, which is essential for maintaining effective business operations. This role is vital in fostering professional relationships and ensuring that all parts of the organisation are aligned

Cost-Effectiveness

Choosing the right VA involves considering the balance between cost and the quality of services provided. The method of hiring—whether as a freelancer, through an agency, or via a managed service—impacts not only the cost but also the level of oversight and management required . This flexibility allows executives to find a solution that best fits their operational needs and budget constraints.

Executives depend on their VAs not just for administrative support, but as pivotal elements of their strategic operations. The ideal VA brings a combination of proactive support, specialised technical skills, trustworthiness, strong communication abilities, and cost effective service. This potent mix empowers executives to optimise their productivity and focus on high-impact business activities, making the role of the virtual assistant more critical than ever in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Are you a virtual assistant looking to expand your horizons with new opportunities?

Visit Coco Corporate’s Careers Page and submit your CV today. We are always looking for talented individuals who can bring their unique skills and perspectives to our team.

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