This question is one I've been asked so many times at live events, conference calls and LinkedIn. "Mike, what are the secrets on hiring a Filipino Virtual Assistant?". Let me answer this for you. There is no secret. However, there are principles to follow, or as a buddy of mine would say, "some friendly advice that will steer you in the right direction".
YOU'RE HIRING A VIRTUAL ASSISTANT. NOT SOME SCHMUCK WHO YOU CAN TREAT LIKE CRAP
LESSON 1: TREAT YOUR VIRTUAL ASSISTANT AS YOU WOULD TREAT ANY EMPLOYEE
Sorry if this one has hit you hard. In fact, hopefully, it's smacked you right in-between the eyes as the truth is if you expect to hire a Filipino Virtual Assistant, and with that think you can treat them like idiots, or as some people seem to think, as lesser than your in-house employees. Then buddy, you are a complete schmuck!
Now let me NOT apologize for my use of direct language, because at the end of the day, who wants waffle and disingenuous self-promotion.
LESSON 2: HIRE FOR THE ROLE
Don't expect your Filipino VA to be able to do more tricks than Dynamo the magician. You're not hiring superman here. Many people make this mistake when outsourcing to the Philippines or hiring a Filipino virtual assistant for the first time.
Many people make the mistake when outsourcing to the Philippines or hiring a Filipino virtual assistant for the first time
Don't let this be you!
Hire for the role. For example, if you want to hire an SEO guy or girl, then hire someone with those skills. If on the other hand, you need someone who can do general admin, basic social media management, perhaps even emails, and basic WordPress design, then hire someone who has those skills.
It's easy, I mean, the truth is hiring a Filipino Virtual Assistant is just like hiring someone back home domestically, the only difference is you pay a lot less and save a fortune on salary costs.
Other than the savings on salary costs, you're hiring someone to do a job.
LESSON 3: PAY PEANUTS AND YOU GET MONKEYS
A chap called Gooch Singh taught me this when I was 16 years old. Gooch actually did not follow his own "guru wisdom" and employed a kid called Turtle as his head sales guy. I mean, you just don't hire a guy with the name TURTLE!
However, despite him not practicing what he preached, his advice was golden. I've followed it and had tremendous success with it.
"MIKE, DUDE, WE WANT TO HIRE FILIPINO VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS TO SAVE MONEY. WHAT YOU DOIN MAN! YOU TELLING ME NOT TO?"
HOLD YOUR HORSES! NO, let me put this into perspective.
What I'm saying, my friends, is this. Pay above the Philippine local rates and you'll get exceptionally talented people working for you at a still, compared to domestic rates, ridiculously low salary!
Here's an example for you.
You want to hire a full-time Filipino virtual assistant with skills in WordPress, content writing, and social media posting.
Instead of wanting to pay them $300 per month, because you have some totally obscured ideas of the Philippines as a country. You instead, offer $500-$600 a month, which is peanuts if your business is western based. And if $500 was a problem, then you really don't have much of a business and you should be employing someone right now so you can attack sales and grow revenue.
Heres the thing, in the US, this role would cost you $2500k a month minimum. Here, instead of paying $300, pay $500-$600. it's an 80% saving on what it would cost you domestically, and you're going to get someone who can actually do the job, in addition to having the skills to be able to get you results.
Navigating the Maze of Challenges in Hiring Filipino Virtual Assistants
Now that we've spilled the beans on the secret tips for bringing a Filipino virtual assistant on board, it's time to shine a light on the hurdles you might encounter along the way. Global hiring comes with its own set of twists and turns, and being in the know will ensure you navigate the path smoothly. Let's dive into some extra nuggets of wisdom to tackle the ins and outs of hiring Filipino virtual assistants like a pro.
1. Cultural Harmony: Embrace the Mosaic, Dodge Assumptions
One roadblock you might hit is weaving through cultural differences. It's a must to approach your Filipino virtual assistant with eyes wide open, celebrating diversity rather than jumping to conclusions. Grasping and respecting Filipino culture lays the groundwork for a harmonious and fruitful working relationship. Take a moment to get acquainted with their traditions, holidays, and preferred communication styles to bridge any potential divides.
2. Crisp Communication: Spanning the Virtual Chasm
Working with a virtual assistant means contending with geographical distances. To hurdle this challenge, make effective communication your north star. Set crystal-clear expectations, establish regular check-ins, and tap into communication tools to span the virtual chasm. This ensures your directives are crystal clear, and your virtual assistant stays locked into your business objectives.
3. Time Zone Tango: Turn Differences into Teamwork
Time zone disparities might seem like a stumbling block if not handled with finesse. Rather than viewing it as an obstacle, flip the script and turn it into an advantage. Align tasks and deadlines with your Filipino virtual assistant to maximize productivity during those overlapping working hours. This savvy move can crank up efficiency and fast-track project completions.
4. Onboarding Odyssey: Invest Time for Long-Term Wins
Proper onboarding and training are linchpin elements for a victorious virtual collaboration. Dedicate time and resources to ensure your Filipino virtual assistant is well-versed in your business machinations and expectations. A well-oiled onboarding process paves the way for a seamless integration into your team, fostering efficiency and nipping potential snags in the bud.
5. Feedback Fandango: Cultivate Growth
Feedback and recognition are potent tools in cultivating a motivated and committed virtual team. Dish out constructive feedback consistently and applaud victories to nurture a positive work atmosphere. Acknowledging the efforts of your Filipino virtual assistant not only boosts spirits but also fuels continuous improvement and unwavering dedication.
6. Tech Embrace: Foster Flawless Collaboration
Technology is your comrade in the realm of virtual teamwork. Dive into project management tools, communication platforms, and collaboration software to streamline processes and ensure harmonious coordination. Welcoming technology amplifies efficiency, minimizes missteps, and fosters a united virtual work environment.
Hope this has helped, remember if you want to hire Filipino virtual assistants risk-free, go to www.virtualstaff.ph and sign up for the business membership.
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