What to Expect from Your VA When You Are on Vacation
I've just returned from an incredible month of travel across Europe, and while my plans for the "Front Row European Tour" didn't unfold exactly as expected due to COVID, I've come back with some valuable insights about how to manage your business effectively when you're on vacation. Today, I want to dive into what you should anticipate from your virtual assistant (VA) or team when you take some well-deserved time off.
Protecting Your Vacation Time
First things first, you might be wondering if it's even possible to take a vacation while running a business. The answer is a resounding yes! If you're in that boat where the idea of a vacation feels foreign, fear not—I have a solution. But before I spill the beans, remember that a "vacation" means just that—a true break from work, not the so-called "laptop lifestyle" that can actually be more stressful than liberating.
Enter the virtual assistant, your secret to taking a genuine vacation. Yes, you heard me right! With the right team in place, you can actually unplug and enjoy your time away. Don't believe me? Let's delve into what you can reasonably expect from your VA when you're on vacation.
The Power of a Strong VA Relationship
Now, before we get into the nitty-gritty, if you're new to the concept of a virtual assistant or still uncertain about hiring one, I've got a free master class that can guide you through the process of finding your Perfect Match virtual assistant. You'll soon see that having a capable VA is an absolute game-changer, especially when it comes to taking time off.
Expectations for Your Vacation
So, you're probably wondering, "What exactly can my VA handle while I'm on vacation?" Here's the lowdown:
- Protecting Your Time: Your VA should shield your vacation time. This means that unless a situation is truly urgent, your VA shouldn't be sending you messages or emails. Determine what qualifies as "urgent" and make sure your VA is aware.
- Managing Your Inbox: Handing over your business email to your VA might seem intimidating, but trust me—it's a game-changer. Your VA can manage customer service emails, inquiries, and even use template responses for common queries. While you might check your email occasionally, you won't be burdened with the constant influx of messages.
- Business as Usual: Your VA will keep your business running smoothly. From engaging with your audience, posting content, and sending newsletters to handling customer queries and shipping products, your VA has got you covered.
- Financial Responsibility: If needed, your VA can manage your business expenses, including using your credit card for payments. This requires a level of trust, which is why I emphasize the importance of hiring a trustworthy Perfect Match VA.
- Community Management: Your VA can moderate your online communities, respond to queries, and interact with members on your behalf. Your business avatar represents you during your vacation.
- Catch-Up Sheet: One brilliant technique my VA used was creating a "catch-up sheet." This document included a checklist for each day of the week, detailing important tasks, meetings, and links to relevant resources. It was a seamless way for me to stay updated without feeling overwhelmed.
Empower Your VA to Excel
The magic here lies in anticipation. A seasoned VA knows your business inside out, making them perfectly equipped to foresee your needs. But don't worry if you're just starting out—use this as an opportunity to brainstorm with your VA and build a customized approach that works for you.
Remember, a good VA relationship takes time to build. If you're just starting, focus on sharing your needs and collaborating closely to ensure your business keeps humming even when you're not at the helm. As your trust deepens, your VA will become an extension of your business—a reliable partner who can handle things while you take that well-earned vacation.
So, leave your laptop at home and go on that real vacation you've been dreaming about. Your VA's got your back until you're back in the driver's seat.
Have a questions about hiring a virtual assistant? Send us an email at [email protected]
