What Makes a Great Virtual Assistant? Traits to Look For

 

Hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA) can be a game-changer for your business—but only if you choose the right one. A VA isn’t just someone who checks off your to-do list. A truly great VA becomes an extension of your business, helping you operate more smoothly, professionally, and efficiently.

So, how do you know you're hiring someone who’s up to the task?

Here are the key traits that set apart a standout VA from an average one.

⭐ 1. Proactive Communication

Great VAs don’t just wait for instructions—they ask clarifying questions, provide updates, and check in regularly. You’ll never have to wonder what’s happening with a task because they keep you in the loop.

What to look for:

• Quick and clear responses

• Willingness to ask questions

• Frequent updates without being prompted

⭐ 2. Tech Savvy

From Google Workspace and Canva to Asana and email marketing platforms, a good VA is comfortable using digital tools—and quick to learn new ones.

What to look for:

• Familiarity with tools you already use

• Confidence navigating platforms

• Willingness to adapt to your systems

⭐ 3. Attention to Detail

Whether it's scheduling social posts or formatting a newsletter, small details matter. A great VA catches errors, double-checks links, and delivers polished, professional work.

What to look for:

• Clean, typo-free communication

• Organized formatting in shared docs

• Accuracy in repeated tasks

⭐ 4. Reliability & Time Management

Your VA should be someone you can count on. That means hitting deadlines, managing time well, and being dependable—especially when you’re juggling a lot.

What to look for:

• Clear boundaries around turnaround times

• Proven track record or testimonials

• Shows up when they say they will

⭐ 5. Resourcefulness

A great VA is a problem solver. Instead of getting stuck, they Google solutions, test ideas, and find a way forward. They don’t just follow instructions—they think.

What to look for:

• Initiative and curiosity

• Independence in handling tasks

• Examples of problem-solving in their past work

⭐ 6. Flexibility

Business moves fast. Your ideal VA can pivot, adjust priorities, and evolve with your needs. Flexibility is key—especially if your business is growing or changing.

What to look for:

• Comfort with shifting deadlines

• Openness to learning new tasks

• Ability to stay calm when plans change

⭐ 7. Understands Your Industry (or Willing to Learn)

You don’t need a unicorn who knows everything from day one, but a good VA either knows your industry or is genuinely willing to dive in and learn.

What to look for:

• Previous experience in your field (if possible)

• Curiosity about your business and audience

• Ability to learn quickly and adapt tone or strategy

⭐ 8. Discretion & Professionalism

Your VA might have access to sensitive info—from client lists to financial details. A great VA operates with integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism at all times.

What to look for:

• Respectful, professional tone

• NDAs or confidentiality agreements (if needed)

• Strong boundaries and ethics

🎯 Hire for Character, Train for Skill

You can teach someone how to use your project management tool—but you can’t teach them to care, show initiative, or manage their time with excellence. Focus on hiring a VA with the right traits, and everything else can be learned.

When you find that great fit, the support they offer can be transformational—not just for your business, but for your peace of mind.

Ready to find your perfect match in a Virtual Assistant?
Let’s talk about how Sidekick Sarah can step in and support your goals.
👉 Contact me here