What are Good Tasks to Hire Virtual Assistants for?

78 replies
Hello, Warriors.

I'm a successful internet marketer looking to outsource and scale my business. I already have one virtual assistant I give random tasks to.

My question is this:

Can you share 3-5 tasks that a blogger, affiliate marketer or internet marketer might hire a virtual assistant for?

Any input would really be appreciated.
#assistants #good #hire #tasks #virtual
  • Profile picture of the author Rixil
    Banned
    [DELETED]
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410036].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      [quote=Rixil;11410036]well, you can try one of these :
      1. Sort your email so you can finally try to reach the elusive Inbox
      2. Answer your phone and deal with telemarketers for you.
      3. Take messages while you're away from your desk.
      4. Coordinate team projects to ensure milestones are being met.

      check this article for more ideas, hopefully it will help
      good luck <3
      Link removed by moderator

      Never thought about hiring a VA to sort my emails. I do get a bunch every single day, so that might be a great option. I'm going to test this out. Thanks for sharing.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410066].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author NetMan
    Hi Chuck

    Internet marketing is a vast area, so it depends on what you are doing, and what you are willing to leave to someone else to do.

    I've, and I'm hiring for several tasks:
    - Mounting WP websites
    - Posting and formatting content
    - Accomplishing tasks required by certain marketing tools
    - Market research and reporting
    - Graphics creation
    - Keyword research
    - Writing content
    - Webmastering web assets
    - etc...

    Anything can be outsourced, apparently, even admin tasks but personally I've not experimented that part, yet.

    Regards,
    Andy
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410064].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by NetMan View Post

      Hi Chuck

      Internet marketing is a vast area, so it depends on what you are doing, and what you are willing to leave to someone else to do.

      I've, and I'm hiring for several tasks:
      - Mounting WP websites
      - Posting and formatting content
      - Accomplishing tasks required by certain marketing tools
      - Market research and reporting
      - Graphics creation
      - Keyword research
      - Writing content
      - Webmastering web assets
      - etc...

      Anything can be outsourced, apparently, even admin tasks but personally I've not experimented that part, yet.

      Regards,
      Andy
      Thanks Andy. I'm going to try out:

      - Posting and formatting content
      - Accomplishing tasks required by certain marketing tools
      - Market research and reporting
      - Graphics creation
      - Writing content

      All great tips. I'll give an update later on and let everyone know how it's going with those things.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410067].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Johnarcher
    Chuck,

    Ron Legrand says "The less I do, the more I make". Anything that keeps you from actually making you money, assign to a VA. How about making a list that starts with the things you absolutely HATE doing. You can certainly pay them by the task of the hour.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410113].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Johnarcher View Post

      Chuck,

      Ron Legrand says "The less I do, the more I make". Anything that keeps you from actually making you money, assign to a VA. How about making a list that starts with the things you absolutely HATE doing. You can certainly pay them by the task of the hour.
      Great wisdom. I do so many things in a day, most of which I hate. I guess I need to start outsourcing more and more of those tasks. I'm going to take an hour today and write down everything I do and complete my list. Thanks again.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410431].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Andrewsfm
    Writing emails probably and then scheduling them as broadcasts, automated income!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410119].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ctrlaltdelete
    I've got a VA from Onlinejobsph working for me right now and these are some of the tasks she's been doing for me:

    - manage my social media accounts
    - interact and post content
    - give me page insight reports
    - Answer the simpler inquiries on my inbox
    - write content


    Basically anything I don't have the time for, I have her do it.Graphics and video editing aren't her strong suits though, so I just hire another extra hand if I do need a fancier image or video done that I can't do myself.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410339].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by ctrlaltdelete View Post

      I've got a VA from Onlinejobsph working for me right now and these are some of the tasks she's been doing for me:

      - manage my social media accounts
      - interact and post content
      - give me page insight reports
      - Answer the simpler inquiries on my inbox
      - write content


      Basically anything I don't have the time for, I have her do it.Graphics and video editing aren't her strong suits though, so I just hire another extra hand if I do need a fancier image or video done that I can't do myself.
      Thanks for sharing. Did you have to hire a bunch of different VAs until you found one you were comfortable with, or was the first one you hired a good fit?
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410432].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author NetMan
      Originally Posted by Johnarcher View Post

      Chuck,

      Ron Legrand says "The less I do, the more I make". Anything that keeps you from actually making you money, assign to a VA. How about making a list that starts with the things you absolutely HATE doing. You can certainly pay them by the task of the hour.
      YES... a good insight that should help anyone to define the "WHAT" to start with...
      Originally Posted by ctrlaltdelete View Post

      ...


      Basically anything I don't have the time for, I have her do it.Graphics and video editing aren't her strong suits though, so I just hire another extra hand if I do need a fancier image or video done that I can't do myself.
      Also, another good one to help define the WHAT...

      Regards,
      Andy
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410741].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author redone111
    There many tasks can outsource from VA



    can be


    - Content Creation
    - Design (Here i mean all from ebooks to infographic .Post images and so more)
    - Social Media Manager
    - Ads Manager for all ads platforms
    - WP Developer
    - SEO expert
    and so more


    Wish this help little
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410447].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Pdomain
    Banned
    Most of the tasks can be automated excluding content writing, email reply, graphic design etc...

    Learning AHK will also help a lot to automate the task!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11410595].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
    Thanks to everyone, I am now hiring people to do:

    1. Custom images
    2. Reply to blog comments
    3. Leave blog comments
    4. Update old blog posts

    I appreciate everyone's insights. Thanks.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11411178].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Randall Magwood
    Originally Posted by chuckholmes View Post

    Can you share 3-5 tasks that a blogger, affiliate marketer or internet marketer might hire a virtual assistant for?
    1) Content proofreading

    2) Email formatting

    3) Replying to emails
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11411391].message }}
  • You can also have your VA break down your most popular blog posts and turn it into slides. You can post the slides or turn them into simple slide videos.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11411570].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by John Jonas Phil VA View Post

      You can also have your VA break down your most popular blog posts and turn it into slides. You can post the slides or turn them into simple slide videos.
      Just started doing that about a week ago. I try to repurpose my content whenever I can and use it in multiple formats. Great idea.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11411574].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author gunsandguns
    Social media accounts manage.
    Article proofreading.
    Content writing or content management.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412238].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Jason Kanigan
    I did the research myself for this awhile ago and here are the two best articles I found on the topic of what to have assistants do:

    ARTICLE 1
    https://www.inc.com/david-finkel/10-...less-time.html


    ARTICLE 2
    PERSONAL ASSISTANT DUTIES AND ATTRIBUTES


    Also I recommend this video, which will help guide your choices of what tasks to have them take over, and in what order:


    Finally, based on a zillion years of experience, one major thing I recommend an assistant for (especially powerful for the co-founder of the previous business I ran, though it took him ages to get used to the idea and take action on it): have this person follow you around, write down all the ideas you come up with, follow up with other people, remind you of your calendar, and basically manage you by giving you structure.

    I don't know how many great ideas have been lost because founders are so busy they simply forget about them. My previous co-founder and I would find spreadsheets we'd made 6 months ago in Google Team Drive and look at each other--"What the heck is this?" Like Gandalf in Moria: "I have no memory of this place." The pace of business is extremely fast and we all move on quickly. Having that extra brain around to keep track of all this stuff is a huge help. Of course, you are going to need a special kind of person. Maybe you don't start them at 40 hours a week. Maybe you have them in one day a week. But I guarantee it'll help.

    Most founders are so sloppy they dash from place to place, firefighting, and don't finish anything well. It's so easy to get off into the weeds. This kind of assistant can keep you on track instead.

    Have you written down the processes for your business, or at least made video walkthroughs of them, so they're easy to pick up? (Nearly all businesses have not.)
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412288].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

      I did the research myself for this awhile ago and here are the two best articles I found on the topic of what to have assistants do:

      ARTICLE 1
      https://www.inc.com/david-finkel/10-...less-time.html


      ARTICLE 2
      PERSONAL ASSISTANT DUTIES AND ATTRIBUTES


      Also I recommend this video, which will help guide your choices of what tasks to have them take over, and in what order:

      How to grow a business - The 5 things you need to stop doing yourself - YouTube

      Finally, based on a zillion years of experience, one major thing I recommend an assistant for (especially powerful for the co-founder of the previous business I ran, though it took him ages to get used to the idea and take action on it): have this person follow you around, write down all the ideas you come up with, follow up with other people, remind you of your calendar, and basically manage you by giving you structure.

      I don't know how many great ideas have been lost because founders are so busy they simply forget about them. My previous co-founder and I would find spreadsheets we'd made 6 months ago in Google Team Drive and look at each other--"What the heck is this?" Like Gandalf in Moria: "I have no memory of this place." The pace of business is extremely fast and we all move on quickly. Having that extra brain around to keep track of all this stuff is a huge help. Of course, you are going to need a special kind of person. Maybe you don't start them at 40 hours a week. Maybe you have them in one day a week. But I guarantee it'll help.

      Most founders are so sloppy they dash from place to place, firefighting, and don't finish anything well. It's so easy to get off into the weeds. This kind of assistant can keep you on track instead.

      Have you written down the processes for your business, or at least made video walkthroughs of them, so they're easy to pick up? (Nearly all businesses have not.)
      Great great response. Thanks. As entrepreneurs, many of us are idea people. What I'm going to do for the next week is write down all of the tasks I do on a daily basis to grow my business and then determine what I should keep doing, stop doing and start delegating. Thanks for sharing the video and articles as well. I found them really helpful.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412306].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author NetMan
      Originally Posted by Jason Kanigan View Post

      I did the research myself for this awhile ago and here are the two best articles I found on the topic of what to have assistants do:

      ARTICLE 1
      https://www.inc.com/david-finkel/10-...less-time.html

      ARTICLE 2
      PERSONAL ASSISTANT DUTIES AND ATTRIBUTES

      Also I recommend this video, which will help guide your choices of what tasks to have them take over, and in what order:

      How to grow a business - The 5 things you need to stop doing yourself - YouTube

      ...
      Awesome share mate, many thanks

      Andy
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412329].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Steve B
    Originally Posted by chuckholmes View Post

    Can you share 3-5 tasks that a blogger, affiliate marketer or internet marketer might hire a virtual assistant for?



    A VA make sense for:
    • Any "must do" task that you can't technically perform yourself
    • Any tasks that take you longer to accomplish than it takes your VA
    • Any tasks that you don't like doing that a VA can do adequately
    • Repetitive, daily execution chores that a VA can handle well
    • Tasks that you know need to be done, but you procrastinate
    • Tasks that cause you stress, anxiety, ulcers, or swearing
    You are the business. You are what makes your Internet business unique. As a result, I would suggest you reserve for yourself any tasks that you do to make your brand outstanding, one-of-a-kind, and a reflection of your unique qualities.


    Steve
    Signature

    Steve Browne, online business strategies, tips, guidance, and resources
    SteveBrowneDirect

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412392].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Steve B View Post

      You are the business. You are what makes your Internet business unique. As a result, I would suggest you reserve for yourself any tasks that you do to make your brand outstanding, one-of-a-kind, and a reflection of your unique qualities.


      Steve
      That's exactly how I feel. The major issue I have with outsourcing is the quality. Sometimes, I feel like I lose my own voice when others do work for me. That being said, I'm so busy not that I can't do everything by myself. Sometimes letting go, and accepting "good enough" over "I can do it myself better" is easier said than done.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412897].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author SyntacticsInc
    Hey, there Chuck!

    There are various tasks that a virtual assistant can be hired for such as:

    1. Social media management - Many individuals now use social media applications to stay updated. However, updating multiple accounts can be hard especially when you're running your business at the same time. Virtual assistants can then schedule posting the updates for all of your social media accounts.
    2. Replying and sorting emails - VAs can be tasked to organize and sort which emails should be replied to ASAP, which should be prioritized, and which are spam.
    3. Content creation - Content varies from blogs, articles, images, and captions to be posted on guest blogs, related websites, and social media pages.
    4. Web design and development - VAs with this skill can create innovative, appealing, informative, and functional websites where visitors can learn more about your products and possibly avail of them.
    5. Researching - Information to be researched on can range from competitors, current trends, to keywords.

    If you find that you need more virtual assistants for your business, there are agencies where you can hire a social media virtual assistant who can also create graphics, content, and who can do web design and web development in the Philippines.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412575].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by SyntacticsInc View Post

      Hey, there Chuck!

      There are various tasks that a virtual assistant can be hired for such as:

      1. Social media management - Many individuals now use social media applications to stay updated. However, updating multiple accounts can be hard especially when you're running your business at the same time. Virtual assistants can then schedule posting the updates for all of your social media accounts.
      2. Replying and sorting emails - VAs can be tasked to organize and sort which emails should be replied to ASAP, which should be prioritized, and which are spam.
      3. Content creation - Content varies from blogs, articles, images, and captions to be posted on guest blogs, related websites, and social media pages.
      4. Web design and development - VAs with this skill can create innovative, appealing, informative, and functional websites where visitors can learn more about your products and possibly avail of them.
      5. Researching - Information to be researched on can range from competitors, current trends, to keywords.

      If you find that you need more virtual assistants for your business, there are agencies where you can hire a social media virtual assistant who can also create graphics, content, and who can do web design and web development in the Philippines.
      I definitely need to hire some more virtual assistants. I will hire some folks in the Philippines and see how that goes. The biggest thing I need to find is having people turn my content into PPT presentations. Any suggestions on that?
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412898].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author NetMan
        Originally Posted by chuckholmes View Post

        I definitely need to hire some more virtual assistants. I will hire some folks in the Philippines and see how that goes. The biggest thing I need to find is having people turn my content into PPT presentations. Any suggestions on that?
        You should find all kind of good quality VAs here https://www.onlinejobs.ph it's among the best and well known places.

        Andy
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412931].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Ian Jackson
    Anything that doesn't require the input of your personality.

    i.e. If you want to build relationships (writing, recording, video) with potential subscribers and clients, a VA cannot "be" you, you have to be you.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11412919].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author hanandaner
    It mostly depends on your need and how your day to day work looks like. I normally get 80% of routine work outsourced to VAs. The key is to understand whether outsourcing the work would result in decrease in quality produced. If some of the key things needs your presence - do that.

    As suggested by other warriors, you can outsource routine tasks like social media management, outreach campaign running, graphics design, email communication, etc.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11413136].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author JohnVianny
    Go to phiipinos, they're good and loyal.

    What are the tasks? it depends:

    from the advertising campaigns, to the blog posts...


    It depends on how your business is structured
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11413654].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Dracklyn
    Hi Chuck,

    I will tell you from experience is not really advisable to have one VA do all your task except you run a very small business which I don't think Internet marketing is.

    Ascertain all the task you need to complete to achieve success in your internet business and choose the critical ones only you can complete proficiently. The remaining tasks should be assigned to your VA but since one VA is not advisable for a business like yours you'll need some more VAs. The number depends on your pocket and number of tasks. I will advise you hire some on hourly some part-time and some by contract.

    Managing a team of VAs might seem a little difficult but with team management software like Trello, everything should be easier. you can easily organise your team and disseminate Jobs to your team members and get alerts when is done or available for review.

    I hope this helps.

    Regards,

    Dracklyn
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11415621].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author writeaway
    Virtual assistants can also be good for CONSUMER INTELLIGENCE gathering

    How?

    Do metacrowdsourcing using a VA

    Forums, LinkedIn, and Quora are good places for this
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11415697].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by writeaway View Post

      Virtual assistants can also be good for CONSUMER INTELLIGENCE gathering

      How?

      Do metacrowdsourcing using a VA

      Forums, LinkedIn, and Quora are good places for this
      Very interesting. I never even would have considered that. Thanks for the reply.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11415802].message }}
  • I think if you don't have much time to do basic work like excel sheet managing, reporting etc you can hire a VA.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11415993].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
    I've expanded my VA help to the following:
    • Replying to blog comments
    • Leaving blog comments
    • Creating PowerPoint Slides
    • Creating Banner ads
    • Editing audio and podcasts
    • Editing old blog posts
    • Helping with Facebook

    Thanks for all the ideas everyone. I'm just starting to realize how much more I can outsource and free up even more of my time for more important tasks.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11417173].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author PaulLanders
    I think the best assignments will concern exactly your area and what your office is doing.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11417414].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author manolo2
    Hey there,


    I use a virtual assistant for my Bing marketing. I have already learnt how to get traffic using Bing so I can advise him exactly what to do. I think that you should use a virtual assistant for jobs that you have done and now can outsource because that way you know if they are doing a good job
    Signature

    Discover How To Profit From Internet Marketing Quickly Using This Simple Method =>Create Money Ideas

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11419782].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by manolo2 View Post

      Hey there,


      I use a virtual assistant for my Bing marketing. I have already learnt how to get traffic using Bing so I can advise him exactly what to do. I think that you should use a virtual assistant for jobs that you have done and now can outsource because that way you know if they are doing a good job
      Good points. I am on a mission to outsource 100% of all my work. I hope to be there within 90 days. The biggest struggle will be having a project manager to oversee everything.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11420706].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Renatas Budrys
    I hire virtual assistant for my ebay droppshiping business, currently happy with their service
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11422295].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Renatas Budrys View Post

      I hire virtual assistant for my ebay droppshiping business, currently happy with their service
      That's great. I've been hiring several different virtual assistants over the past couple of weeks. It seems like I have to hire about ten to find one good one. Anyone else have similar, or different results?
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11422314].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author myob
    I don't like to use virtual assistants but I've had excellent results over the years by hiring students (Business Admin majors) part time or as interns from local universities. I even have a full time general manager and office managers now who once worked for me as undergrads. Generally, junior or senior students especially are more seasoned, goal-oriented and reliable.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11422329].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by myob View Post

      I don't like to use virtual assistants but I've had excellent results over the years by hiring students (Business Admin majors) part time or as interns from local universities. I even have a full time general manager and office managers now who once worked for me as undergrads. Generally, junior or senior students especially are more seasoned, goal-oriented and reliable.
      Were the fees that you paid your students comparable to what you would pay an overseas virtual assistant? Was the ROI still worth it? Just curious. Thanks for sharing.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11423465].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author amuro
    Writing articles, e-books and graphics as in banners, ecovers and sourcing for royality free images.

    I have a tool that does it so I haven't done much outsourcing so far.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11424066].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Obermair
    Managing Blog Publishing, Content / Blog Post Creation, Research & Creation of Facebook Posts, Landing Page Set-up/Creation, and so much more!

    btw - I used to have a VA to do video and audio transcripts. But the tools are getting better. I found a tool called Otter.ai - drag and drop your video and the transcript shows up!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11424158].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Obermair View Post

      Managing Blog Publishing, Content / Blog Post Creation, Research & Creation of Facebook Posts, Landing Page Set-up/Creation, and so much more!

      btw - I used to have a VA to do video and audio transcripts. But the tools are getting better. I found a tool called Otter.ai - drag and drop your video and the transcript shows up!
      Awesome. Yes, tools keep getting better and cheaper and allow us to do more things ourselves. The real question we need to ask ourselves, even though we could do it is: "should we do it?"
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11425972].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author PPG19
        You should outsource the tasks that you are currently doing yourself, the ones that are time consuming but vital to the correct operation of your business. In this way you can teach your VA your methods and you can focus on the important things of your business like making sales.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11426039].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Nico Mallo
    My boss hired me to do a task that he cannot do because he's too busy, I been working for him for 5 yrs, so far we have a good good relation as we have a systematic way to do task

    My boss ask me to do the following:
    1. i train new VA for him, I also do the interview and discuss everything
    2. I do the editing, video and picture editing, I master DaVince because of my job
    3. I manage social medias, websites
    4. I check emails and do data entry as well

    There are many task but I enjoy it so much, I am able to learn things little by little.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11426180].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Nico Mallo View Post

      My boss hired me to do a task that he cannot do because he's too busy, I been working for him for 5 yrs, so far we have a good good relation as we have a systematic way to do task

      My boss ask me to do the following:
      1. i train new VA for him, I also do the interview and discuss everything
      2. I do the editing, video and picture editing, I master DaVince because of my job
      3. I manage social medias, websites
      4. I check emails and do data entry as well

      There are many task but I enjoy it so much, I am able to learn things little by little.
      That's really good NICO. I'm going to follow some of your advice and start hiring people to do my social media. I also need people to leave blog comments and reply to blog comments.

      What type of data entry do you do?
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11426458].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author dioni
    If you have a blog:

    1) Check comment, delete spam, write comment's replies
    2) Promote your posts in social networks, maybe teach him/her to use some tools for that
    3) Perform research for your next articles ideas, look for images, videos

    Marketing tasks:
    1) Give her a template and instruct her how to look for prospects and send those emails (personalized, not spammy). Then tell her to create a spreadsheet with positive answers for you to follow up
    2) Create brief reports on the competition
    3) Create a Google alarm with your brand name / topic and she needs to select the most important stories and send them to you

    My 2 cents
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11426194].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by dioni View Post

      If you have a blog:

      1) Check comment, delete spam, write comment's replies
      2) Promote your posts in social networks, maybe teach him/her to use some tools for that
      3) Perform research for your next articles ideas, look for images, videos

      Marketing tasks:
      1) Give her a template and instruct her how to look for prospects and send those emails (personalized, not spammy). Then tell her to create a spreadsheet with positive answers for you to follow up
      2) Create brief reports on the competition
      3) Create a Google alarm with your brand name / topic and she needs to select the most important stories and send them to you

      My 2 cents
      All great ideas. I really like the idea about the Google Alarm. I have never heard of that before. I will have my VA check it out today. Thanks again.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11426459].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author roberwilliams01
    Hyy, you can outsource any work, few suggestions may -

    1) Replies to the queries of readers or reply to comment.
    2) Editing and posting your content.
    3) Research what the readers want to read.
    4) Ask for raw information for the any blog topic you are working on.
    5) Email replies.

    You can try anything with the surety of lighten your work burden...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11427837].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rick Tinson
    1) Ideas for new content
    2) Identify sites to target affiliate links for
    3) Anything that's repetitive
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11427921].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Darshan Thanki
    I have taken these 3 questions from a old blog post that I don't remember, but I think it is worthy:

    I have them in my task list app, workflowy at top, and I consider them every single day!
    1. What are my highest value activities?
    2. What can I and only I do that if done well will make a real difference?
    3. What is the most valuable use of my time right now?

    These three questions have helped me to get organized and delegate tasks that other people can do for me.

    Apparently, from myself and a few bunch of clients and friends I have worked with, here is a quick list of tasks that you can outsource to a VA:

    Disclaimer : I run a VA business, and these tasks are also some of the common tasks we get in our business from online entrepreneurs.
    1. Email Management and replying -

      If you are new to this, I would recommend trying to hire a VA to organize your support email first. That is, make a list of categories you would like to organize your support emails to, and apply labels to them. By a simple Google search, you can find handful labels and you can choose what you want.
    2. PPC Management -

      I know you do advertising a lot! So why not hire a VA to manage your ad campaigns?
    3. Blog post commenting - on your own blogs!

      Do you think all authors reply to all comments by themselves?
    4. Deligate to Technology

      This is kind of off topic, but with smart auto workflows and automated tools, you can save atleast 30% of your time! I do it with Gravity forms' gravityflow work flow management and using automated tools for social media management and reporting.

    Hope that helps!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11428560].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Darshan Thanki View Post

      I have taken these 3 questions from a old blog post that I don't remember, but I think it is worthy:

      I have them in my task list app, workflowy at top, and I consider them every single day!
      1. What are my highest value activities?
      2. What can I and only I do that if done well will make a real difference?
      3. What is the most valuable use of my time right now?

      These three questions have helped me to get organized and delegate tasks that other people can do for me.

      Apparently, from myself and a few bunch of clients and friends I have worked with, here is a quick list of tasks that you can outsource to a VA:

      Disclaimer : I run a VA business, and these tasks are also some of the common tasks we get in our business from online entrepreneurs.
      1. Email Management and replying -

        If you are new to this, I would recommend trying to hire a VA to organize your support email first. That is, make a list of categories you would like to organize your support emails to, and apply labels to them. By a simple Google search, you can find handful labels and you can choose what you want.
      2. PPC Management -

        I know you do advertising a lot! So why not hire a VA to manage your ad campaigns?
      3. Blog post commenting - on your own blogs!

        Do you think all authors reply to all comments by themselves?
      4. Deligate to Technology

        This is kind of off topic, but with smart auto workflows and automated tools, you can save atleast 30% of your time! I do it with Gravity forms' gravityflow work flow management and using automated tools for social media management and reporting.

      Hope that helps!
      I'm definitely looking for help with images, memes, blog commenting, pay per click and much more. The business has just grown so quickly that it's next to impossible to be a one person show. Thanks.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11431165].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author DWolfe
        Originally Posted by chuckholmes View Post

        I'm definitely looking for help with images, memes, blog commenting, pay per click and much more. The business has just grown so quickly that it's next to impossible to be a one person show. Thanks.
        Have you looked into the better content sites out there for memes and images ? Even someone on fiverr maybe a good undervalue seller for memes. Blog content I would fine a writer in the $25.00 to $50 range for some good content and you review it and post it yourself. There used to be several good writers on this forum a while back. Take the time and find them. Also run a paid ad somewhere looking to hire pros for pictures and ppc.

        Just my .02 cents but a good writer out there is like gold if you find the right one.
        Signature


        You can earn 10% average annual returns on your investments - https://app.groundfloor.us/r/m2aa7b
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11431183].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
          Originally Posted by DWolfe View Post

          Have you looked into the better content sites out there for memes and images ? Even someone on fiverr maybe a good undervalue seller for memes. Blog content I would fine a writer in the $25.00 to $50 range for some good content and you review it and post it yourself. There used to be several good writers on this forum a while back. Take the time and find them. Also run a paid ad somewhere looking to hire pros for pictures and ppc.

          Just my .02 cents but a good writer out there is like gold if you find the right one.
          I've got a great writer. I just had to go through about 50 contractors to find one. Like you said, a good writer is like gold.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11434240].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author DURABLEOILCOM
    Virtual Assistants can be hired to post advertising, grow social media presence, make cold calls, handle customer service tasks, design and manage a website, create content and write articles, create sales leads, handle PPC campaigns, SEO basically the jobs that can be given to them are endless. You should create a test for any candidate and interview them/ask for a resume.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11428571].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Obermair
    Just started using a VA for editing a book. Have had a lot of success with simple, structured tasks... this is going to be interesting.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11428640].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Obermair View Post

      Just started using a VA for editing a book. Have had a lot of success with simple, structured tasks... this is going to be interesting.
      Let me know how it goes with your book editing. I've always struggled with trust issues, especially when it comes to my blog and email list. Those two things are my babies and giving someone else access to them has probably been the one thing that has held me back from outsourcing sooner.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11431166].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author amalrichard
    Thank you all, i got a clear picture about VA. really its being nice to have a VA if we are busy with other tasks. once gain thank u for sharing your experiences.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11428702].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author AndreiMorariu
    Basically you should sit down and write a 2 columned list:

    1) Important activities ( that make you the most money )
    2) Repetitive/Time consuming activities ( that take up a lot of time and can be done by someone else )

    You should free up your schedule in such a way that you VA does all the activities from 2) and that you have more time to focus on the activities that generate the most money for your business( sales calls, 1-on-1 coaching, webinars, funnel creation etc. ).
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11432992].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by AndreiMorariu View Post

      Basically you should sit down and write a 2 columned list:

      1) Important activities ( that make you the most money )
      2) Repetitive/Time consuming activities ( that take up a lot of time and can be done by someone else )

      You should free up your schedule in such a way that you VA does all the activities from 2) and that you have more time to focus on the activities that generate the most money for your business( sales calls, 1-on-1 coaching, webinars, funnel creation etc. ).
      Good points. The issues I've had with VA's so far is that it takes time to train them and it's hard to find a good one at a fair price. I've hired several over the past few weeks, but none that I will rehire.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11434241].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author podbpo
    We work with internet marketers providing outsourced services for internet and these include:
    • Answering inbound calls
    • Making outbound calls
    • Managing live web chat
    • Email / ticket handling
    • Social media management
    • Various other back office functions
    Signature
    Increase your Conversions. Reduce your Refunds.
    Outsourced Customer Support for Online Businesses | www.podbpo.com
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11433593].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author swordmaster
    So you have already gathered plenty of material for marlket research on the subject of virtual assistant/outsourcer. Enough to create your own eBook manual for that (something like: "How to hire and manage your personal virtual asistant who helps you make money while you sleep") plus include several links to good reputable outsourcers. Then sell it here on WF. Wish you all the best!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11433839].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author NetMan
      Originally Posted by swordmaster View Post

      So you have already gathered plenty of material for marlket research on the subject of virtual assistant/outsourcer. Enough to create your own eBook manual for that (something like: "How to hire and manage your personal virtual asistant who helps you make money while you sleep") plus include several links to good reputable outsourcers. Then sell it here on WF. Wish you all the best!
      I'd tend to agree!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11434146].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by swordmaster View Post

      So you have already gathered plenty of material for marlket research on the subject of virtual assistant/outsourcer. Enough to create your own eBook manual for that (something like: "How to hire and manage your personal virtual asistant who helps you make money while you sleep") plus include several links to good reputable outsourcers. Then sell it here on WF. Wish you all the best!
      Based off the information in this thread, I probably could write a book about hiring a VA. Or even better, I could hire a VA to write the book.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11434242].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author erikrefuerzo
    A blogger could hire:
    Content Creator
    Audio/Video Editor
    Web Developer
    SEO/Web Marketer
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11434069].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author SYKOTIK
    Anything that takes up your time that is menial and repetitive.
    Signature

    Internet business help. Looking to coach the next 20 people for free.
    Reach out to me if you're interested in my free coaching.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11434144].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author amuro
    1. Designing e-covers, graphics and banners

    2. Setting up social media accounts

    3. Attending to existing customers enquiries and even complaints as customer service.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11434978].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by amuro View Post

      1. Designing e-covers, graphics and banners

      2. Setting up social media accounts

      3. Attending to existing customers enquiries and even complaints as customer service.
      All good ideas, thanks. I really like the idea about setting up social media accounts. You could even have a virtual assistant manage those accounts on a daily basis, which would free up a ton of your time.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11435106].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Sufyan47
    [DELETED]
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11436553].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by Sufyan47 View Post

      Hi,

      Hire A Virtual Assistant For These 6 Tasks To Grow Your Business
      I am going to show you how to hire a virtual assistant along with the 6 tasks you must outsource to grow your business rapidly.

      1 - Identify Tasks To Be Outsourced
      2 - Perform The Tasks To Be Outsourced
      3 - Create Working Procedures
      4 - Train Your Team
      5 - Customer Service
      6 - Helping To Hire a Virtual Assistant
      These are six really, really good ideas. Thanks for sharing. I really like your ideas about creating work procedures and helping hire other virtual assistants.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11440834].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author kohjihondrade
    As a virtual assistant for a blogger, it is mainly to promote the brand or product. Call a few prospect to engage, and data entry.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11437988].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author roberwilliams01
    hiring a virtual assistant is good because they make us burden free. i have hired virtual assistant for my:
    1. Amazon/eBay store management.
    2. social media management and marketing.
    3. Bookkeeping.
    4. eCommerce store management.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11445243].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author chuckholmes
      Originally Posted by roberwilliams01 View Post

      hiring a virtual assistant is good because they make us burden free. i have hired virtual assistant for my:
      1. Amazon/eBay store management.
      2. social media management and marketing.
      3. Bookkeeping.
      4. eCommerce store management.
      All great tips. My business has changed for the better since hiring virtual assistants.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11448544].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author SEOptimization@1
    Online research, CRM Management / Leads Management, Blog writing and marketing, Database Building... in fact, there could be lot of tasks to outsource to your VA... like Graphics Designing, SEO, Social Media Management.

    Hope that helps.
    Signature
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11445359].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author markmiller24x7
    To a Virtual Assistant you can give various administrative tasks, including answering emails, making travel plans and arrangements, scheduling meetings. These are the good tasks to hire Virtual Assistant for:-
    • Prepare and maintain Customer spreadsheets and online records
    • Create presentations
    • Organize manager's calendars
    • Scheduling meetings
    • Responding to phone calls and emails
    • Booking travel accommodations etc.
    Wish it will help you little.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11445656].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author RemoteCompany
    Here is a list of tasks you can outsource to your VA but the list could be much longer:


    • Scheduling personal and business Meetings and Calendar management.
    • Database cleaning/building.
    • General Web Research.
    • Travel bookings.
    • Planning an event.
    • Note-taking during Meetings.
    • Basic bookeeping.
    • Personal Planner.
    • Reply to Customer emails.
    • Take care of the Live chat on your site.
    • Ticket System.
    • Blogging.
    • Commenting.
    • Creating and send out Newsletters.
    • Create presentations.
    • Social Media messaging.
    • Forum discussion.
    • Social media discussions.
    • Social media and search engine advertising.
    • Transcriptions.
    • File management.
    • Simple WordPress/Wix sites.
    • Install and configure WordPress plugins.
    • Create landing/opt-in pages.
    • Create online forms.
    • Reach out to potential affiliates.
    • Manage Affiliates.
    • Cold Calling
    • Send out Cold Emails
    • Find emails for potential customers.
    • Influencers outreach.
    • Simple graphics.
    • Design infographics.
    • Edit product images.
    • Convert/split/merge PDFs.
    • Upload videos to YouTube.
    • Moderate YouTube comments.
    • Create presentations.
    • Competitor analysis.
    • On-page SEO optimisation.
    • Google analytics reports.
    • Keyword ranking reports.
    • Prepare training resources.
    • Create tutorial videos.
    • Set up webinars.
    • Post ads on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
    • Update real estate property listings.
    • Update Amazon and eBay listings.
    • Dropshipping tasks.
    • Fill out questionnaires.
    • Background checks.
    • General paperwork.
    • Training of your new VA recruits.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[11445860].message }}

Trending Topics