Become a More Valuable Virtual Assistant
Summary:
Being of value to
your client or your boss is invaluably important to job security. But how does
one go about creating value? You become more knowledgeable and indispensable.
Learn as much as you can about what your boss/client does.
Article Body:
Being of value to
your client or your boss is invaluably important to job security. But how does
one go about creating value? You become more knowledgeable and indispensable.
Learn as much as you can about what your boss/client does.
Ask questions. Most people are flattered to
know that you care enough to ask how they do what they do and why they do it.
By learning more and asking more, you will be
able to answer questions about the client/boss to his or her potential clients.
If you can help him or her along this way, you will inevitably become
indispensable.
Make suggestions. If you see ways to improve a
particular process or task - whether it creates greater efficiency or saves
money - you'll look like the hero.
Offer to save the client/boss money. Everyone
- I don't care how rich or poor they are - likes to save money. Don't recommend
something you know to be a waste. Instead, offer a better, cheaper, more
efficient option.
Practice goodwill. It goes a long way. A good
example: This week a client asked about finding a particular list for him. No
problem, I'd researched something similar for another client. I gave him the
contact information so he could check it out and perhaps buy the list (from
another vendor). He asked,
"Well, how
are you going to make money on this?"
My response?
"I won't and
I don't need to - all I did was refer you to someone who could help you
out."
He would have
gladly paid me $100 for the referral - even offered to. But, my offer of goodwill in not accepting that $100 will net me a lot more in future business than
just $100 one-time. I don't want him to think that every time I do a favor he
owes me money. I want to build up that favor bank so he owes me favors and has
no other option but to pay those favors back in the way of referrals and/or
future business. And, because he now knows I'm not going to rip him off, he'll
keep coming back forever!
Let the client/boss know what else you can
do. Listen to him rattle on about his thoughts, ideas, and business
philosophies. When you hear some little tidbit that you can help with - mention
it! You'll get more work and he'll have more faith in your abilities.
Be willing to accept suggestions. Of course,
this one's a no-brainer.
Don't whine! When a client/boss asks for
something, don't whine about it - just do it. If they think they have a whiner
on their hands they won't want anything to do with you.
If you work as an admin or assistant of any
kind, you need to be able to enjoy serving other people. That's the basis of
your job - realize that use a corresponding attitude
Improve your skills. If you're so-so at using
Excel, being a whiz will carry you far. Most software programs have tutorials
built right in. Use it! In your own time, run through the tutorials and
practice, practice, practice. Join a chat group if you need to learn more about
the software's functions. Then let the client/boss know what you can do. It's
always impressive when someone says,
"I know how
to do this now, and may I help you?"
A good share of
being a good admin is putting yourself in the other person's shoes. Ask
yourself regularly,
"How would I
want this done and what response would I expect from someone working for
me?"
Your answer to
that question is exactly how you should handle the situation/request.
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