How To Be The Virtual Assistant Everyone Wants To Work With

A cheerful virtual assistant efficiently multitasking, surrounded by organization and inspiration in a cozy workspace.

Do’s and Don’ts for Thriving in the VA World

Virtual assistants (VAs) are the behind-the-scenes superheroes helping things run smoothly. Whether you’re juggling calendars, sorting out projects, or keeping clients happy, being a great VA takes more than just ticking boxes—it’s about being smart, adaptable, and on the ball.

Here’s a friendly guide to what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to being an awesome virtual assistant:

✅ Do’s for Virtual Assistants– What’ll Make You Shine

Talk like a Pro:

Clear, professional, and to the point—good communication is your best friend. Whether you're writing emails, hopping on calls, or updating your client, keep it simple, respectful, and easy to understand.

Time is Your Superpower:

Managing multiple things at once? Totally part of the gig. Use tools like Trello, Asana, or even a trusty Google Calendar to stay on track. Prioritize what matters most and give yourself room to breathe.

Draw the Line (Nicely):

Yes, flexibility is great—but that doesn’t mean being available 24/7. Be upfront about your working hours and what you can realistically deliver. It helps avoid burnout and confusion.

Keep Your Tech Game Strong:

Whether it's CRMs, Slack, Zoom, or some niche scheduling app, the more comfortable you are with tools, the smoother your workday will be. Staying updated with what’s out there also shows clients you’re on top of your game.

Handle Info Like a Pro:

Clients trust you with their stuff—so take care of it. Use secure passwords, safe storage, and follow any privacy rules. A little caution goes a long way in building long-term trust.

❌ Don’ts for Virtual Assistants – What to Watch Out For

Don’t Bite Off More Than You Can Chew:

Taking on too much might sound impressive at first, but missed deadlines and stress aren’t worth it. Be honest about your capacity and do what you can do well.

Don’t Brush Off Feedback:

An overwhelmed Virtual Assistant, in a messy environment, on the desk full of unfinished tasks.

Even the best VAs need a tune-up now and then. Whether it’s praise or pointers, take feedback seriously. It’s how you grow and get even better at what you do.

Don’t Ghost or Get Sloppy with Replies:

Responding late, writing vague answers, or sounding unprofessional? Big no-no. Be prompt, be clear, and remember that communication reflects your work ethic too.

Don’t Work Without a Clear Agreement:

Always, always have a contract. It protects you and the client. Outline what’s expected, how you’ll get paid, and when things are due. No surprises, just clarity.

Don’t Stop Learning:

The digital world changes fast—what worked last year might be old news now. Keep learning, try new tools, and update your skills to stay sharp and in demand.

One Last Thing...

Being a VA isn’t just about checking tasks off a list—it’s about becoming someone your clients rely on and trust. Bring your best self to the job, keep things organized, and don’t be afraid to grow along the way.

Start small, stay consistent, and enjoy the ride—you’ve got this!