9 Questions You Might Be Afraid to Ask About Virtual Assistants
Virtual assistants have become an increasingly popular option for property managers looking to streamline their operations and improve their productivity. However, for those new to the concept, there may be some questions they are hesitant to ask.
It's easy to just continue hiring the way you always have: setting aside a budget for an in-house employee, hoping someone local comes along that matches the criteria for the role, needing space for them to work, and incurring high payroll costs to cover their benefits and salary. However, there is a better way!
What are the questions keeping you from choosing a property management virtual assistant? Today we'll explore nine of these questions and provide answers to help you make an informed decision about whether a virtual assistant is right for your property management needs.
1. What Is a Virtual Assistant for Property Management?
A virtual assistant for property management is a remote team member who provides administrative and support services to property managers. They can handle a wide range of tasks, including tenant screening, lease management, rent collection, maintenance coordination, and more.
Additionally, a virtual assistant can work on a part-time or full-time basis, depending on your needs.
2. What Are the Benefits of Remote Team Members?
One of the biggest benefits of using property management virtual assistants is that they can help you save time and money. By outsourcing administrative tasks to a virtual assistant, you can free up your time to focus on more important aspects of your business.
In addition, virtual assistants are often more cost-effective than hiring full-time employees, as you only pay for the services you need.
3. How Do I find the Right Virtual Assistants?
Various online platforms specialize in connecting companies with virtual assistants, such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Virtual Assistant Talent.
However, the best resource for virtual talent, specifically for the property management industry, is VPM Solutions. Through this platform, you'll find thousands of VAs with experience and training in property management roles and tasks.
4. How Do I Train a Virtual Contractor?
Training a virtual contractor is similar to training an in-person employee. You will need to provide them with clear instructions and expectations, as well as access to any necessary tools or software. Regular communication is also important to ensure that your virtual assistant stays on track and meets your expectations.
For your property management business and the best virtual talent, choosing team members through VPM Solutions provides an additional layer of industry-specific training. Our VPM Academy is free for any VA on our platform and delivers quality training and certifications for property management tasks and industry experience.
5. How Do I Make Sure My Virtual Assistant Is Productive?
Establishing clear goals and metrics is one way to ensure that your virtual assistant is productive. By setting specific objectives and tracking progress, you can hold your virtual assistant accountable and ensure they meet your expectations.
Regular communication and feedback can also help identify areas where your virtual assistant may need additional support or guidance.
6. How Do I Manage Communication With a VA?
Effective communication is key to a successful virtual assistant relationship. Property managers should establish a regular schedule for check-ins and updates and be available to answer any questions or concerns your virtual assistant may have.
It's also important to establish a communication protocol, such as using property management software, a project management tool, or messaging platform, to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
7. How Do I Keep Company Data Secure?
When working with a virtual assistant, it's important to establish clear data security protocols. This may include using secure communication channels, restricting access to sensitive information, and ensuring that your virtual assistant is familiar with your organization's data security policies.
8. How Do I Know If a Virtual Assistant Is the Right Fit for My Business?
The best way to determine if a virtual assistant is the right fit for your business is to start with a small project or trial period. This will allow you to assess their skills and communication style and determine if they are a good fit for your organization.
Also, spend time reviewing candidates with the experience and skills you need, then schedule a video meeting to meet with them before selecting the ideal VA for the role.
9. What Tasks Can I Delegate to My Remote Assistant?
A virtual property management assistant can handle a wide range of tasks, including tenant screening, lease management, rent collection, maintenance coordination, bookkeeping, and more. The specific tasks to delegate to your virtual assistant will depend on their skill set, experience, and your business needs.
Find Remote Team Members Today Through VPM Solutions
Virtual assistants can be a valuable resource for property managers looking to streamline their operations and improve their productivity. By outsourcing administrative tasks to a property management virtual assistant, property managers can focus on more critical aspects of their business and ultimately save time and money. However, it's important to ask the right questions and do your research before hiring a virtual assistant for property management.
With the right approach, a virtual assistant can become a valuable member of your team and help you achieve your business goals. So, if you're ready to see the talent available for your company right now, start your Free Company Profile!