How I Use Virtual Assistants to Run My eCommerce Business
People & Blogs
Introduction
In the fast-paced world of drop shipping, time is a precious asset. For entrepreneurs operating in this space, outsourcing becomes crucial, enabling you to regain control of your time and focus on strategic growth rather than getting caught up in day-to-day operations. Whether you’re thriving in your business or laying the groundwork as a newcomer, having a solid blueprint for bringing in virtual assistants (VAs) can significantly boost your progress.
The Value of Outsourcing
Outsourcing is not just about freeing up your time; it’s also about scaling your business effectively. As the sole operator, you may reach a six-figure income, but to quicken this journey, consider building a team. Delegating tasks to VAs allows you to enhance productivity, innovate, and focus on areas for business expansion that you might not have noticed before.
However, many entrepreneurs grapple with letting go of control and delegating tasks. After years of trying to manage everything myself, I discovered that even if I worked 14-hour days, I couldn’t outperform a team of dedicated professionals. By stepping back and outsourcing responsibilities, I was able to audit and strengthen the weaknesses in my business, focusing on new opportunities for growth.
Key Considerations Before Hiring a VA
Before hiring a virtual assistant, there are two boxes you need to check:
Consistent Work Availability: Ensure you can offer consistent, full-time work to a VA. If you can't guarantee regular hours, it might be better to wait until you can.
Plan for Their Time: Have a clear idea of how you plan to allocate the time saved. Aim to use that time strategically—watching Netflix won’t help your business flourish.
Best Platforms to Find Virtual Assistants
When it comes to hiring your VAs, there are four main platforms worth exploring:
Fiverr: A fantastic place for quick tasks and testing new hires. You can find a wide range of services at competitive prices, often starting around five dollars.
Upwork: While it can be pricier, Upwork connects you with professionals suitable for specialized tasks, but it may not always align with the needs of drop shipping.
OnlineJobs.ph: A great resource for hiring Filipino VAs who often come with significant eCommerce experience. You pay a one-time monthly fee to post jobs and connect with candidates.
Facebook Groups: These can be useful but come with risks due to the presence of scammers. Always verify candidates thoroughly.
Testing and Training Your VAs
Once you’ve hired someone, it’s essential to test them on a small scale first. Establish a relationship based on trust, but verify their capabilities consistently. Create video tutorials using tools like Loom to train them effectively. This platform allows you to easily create and share training videos, helping VAs grasp their responsibilities better.
While hiring, consider payment structures that incentivize productivity, such as paying per task instead of hourly rates. Tools like Inner Guard can track your VAs' productivity, providing peace of mind that tasks are being completed efficiently.
Conclusion
By outsourcing key tasks in your drop shipping business, you can significantly enhance your overall productivity and focus on strategic growth. This approach not only benefits your business but also allows you to take advantage of new opportunities that arise, shaping a path to success that is sustainable.
Keywords
- Virtual Assistants
- Drop Shipping
- Outsourcing
- eCommerce
- Productivity
- Training
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- OnlineJobs.ph
- Facebook Groups
FAQ
1. What is the benefit of using virtual assistants in eCommerce?
Outsourcing tasks to virtual assistants allows entrepreneurs to regain time, focus on business growth, and reduce the burden of day-to-day operations.
2. How can I find reliable virtual assistants?
You can utilize platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, OnlineJobs.ph, and Facebook groups to find suitable candidates, but make sure to vet them thoroughly.
3. Should I pay my virtual assistants hourly or per task?
Paying per task can motivate VAs to produce more efficient work compared to hourly rates, but choose the payment structure that aligns with your overall business goals.
4. What’s the best way to train my virtual assistants?
Creating step-by-step video tutorials using platforms like Loom can efficiently train your VAs, ensuring they understand their responsibilities.
5. How can I ensure my virtual assistants are productive?
Consider using productivity tracking software like Inner Guard to monitor your VAs' performance while still allowing them the freedom to manage their tasks.
