You can do a simple term search on Google or any search engine, start with type of work you need ( i.e. “search engine optimization”) and then look for unfamiliar words or phrases. Look these new terms up and you will be a more informed and prepared to contact a VA. Most of time you will find other useful tidbits like standard rates and how much competition there is for service.

Sometimes it would be nice to just to dump project onto VA and forget it, hoping work is in competent hands, but that can lead to disaster. You could be charged for services you don’t need or are too complicated and difficult to maintain if your relationship with that VA ends (for what ever reason). Your VA may not even be able to provide service needed. For this reason it is wise to at least get familiar with technical details and language.

Word-of-Mouth Referrals

What can be said about word-of-mouth referrals, other than they can not always be trusted but are better than a blind pick out of a directory. Having said that, you can trust a referral if you have done your research, set your budget and feel prepared to discuss your project needs. I am including this information because a referred VA might still not be right virtual assistant for you or your business.

Armed with this information, your search for a virtual assistant will be easier and in end, match you make with be a better fit for your needs.

2004 World Wide Virtual (http://www.world-wide-virtual.us)