One of the top questions that people face in all work fields is how they can retain an excellent employee once they discover their potential. Employee retention haunts every employer from Fortune 500 companies to small online ventures, so it is not surprising that you may be worried about how to retain the best virtual assistant you have found. Especially since the online world makes it so easy for people to move on without guilt.
Well, here are a few tips that may help you keep your virtual assistant if you cannot imagine life without them. To begin, you might consider adding bonuses to their project fees for a job well done. An extra five to ten dollars may not seem like a big deal, but your VA will make note of the fact. This way not only will they feel that you have acknowledged their hard work, but they will continue to strive to deliver high quality work at all times.
Second, make sure you always give feedback. Chances are you never hesitate to give critical feedback when you need something altered, but you may not be so quick to deliver a “thanks” or a “good work.” Going back to the original topic, everybody likes to know that their work is noticed. Sometimes a sample two word sentiment can make all the difference.
Third, have employee reviews. It only takes five minutes to have a quick employee review via the phone or an IM service. In real life companies have employee reviews every quarter, by conducting your own not only makes you appear more professional to your VA but once again it acknowledges them. So if you haven’t picked up the hints yet, if you want to keep your VA be sure to acknowledge their work whenever possible and realistic.