Entrepreneurs are switching to hiring virtual assistants (VA) for one reason: to work ‘on’ their business instead of ‘in’ it. What many don’t realise is that delegating tasks to a VA doesn’t just save time; it also reduces decision fatigue, allowing business owners to make more strategic choices.
One of the top locations for sourcing virtual assistants is the Philippines, where 13% of the world’s VAs come from. Filipino virtual assistants are sought after for their proficiency in the English language, cost-effective hiring, and background in various fields.
But how exactly does hiring a Filipino virtual assistant work? Let’s break down the process.
Virtual Assistant Engagement Models
The process for hiring virtual assistants depends on the chosen engagement model. It will also dictate how deeply integrated the VA becomes in the business structure, the level of control the company remains, and even the success of the partnership.
Here are some of the models practised by many companies:
1. Freelance: Flexibility and Focused Expertise
The freelance model is often the entry point for many companies exploring the world of virtual assistance. Most companies choose freelance VAs when they need specific tasks completed quickly and efficiently without the commitment of a longer-term arrangement.
Freelance VAs are often less integrated into the company culture and processes, operating more as external contractors. They may also juggle multiple clients, which can impact their availability and potentially lead to project turnover.
Hiring freelance Vas is more suitable for tasks that require specialised skills for a limited duration and start-ups with fluctuating workloads and budget constraints. This approach requires more active management, including detailed task briefings, consistent communication, and careful quality control.
2. In-House VA: A Dedicated Remote Team
The in-house or dedicated model involves hiring remote staff as full-time or part-time employees. In this approach, VAs are given the same benefits and level of integration as traditional employees but with the flexibility of remote work.
As official employees, the firm has direct oversight of the VA’s work, schedule, and professional development. This works best for companies that need a dedicated VA for ongoing, long-term tasks.
3. Agency Approach: Streamlined Outsource Management
VA agencies act as intermediaries, handling the recruitment, training, and management of virtual assistants. They assume part of the responsibility for managing the VA, which often involves implementing quality control measures for consistent and reliable performance. Partnering with an agency is ideal for businesses that require consistent VA support but lack the resources to manage VAs directly.
Naturally, there would be costs associated with connecting with an agency, but the benefit of having an efficient VA often outweighs the price.
Steps to Hiring a Filipino Virtual Assistant
Every offshoring company operates differently, but the best ones follow a clear and structured process to help businesses reach their goals. At Outshore, filling an organisation’s staffing gaps with skilled, cost-effective talent takes just eight (8) simple steps.
1. Complete the Job Description Form
Talent for VA recruitment starts with a Job Description Form. Here, you will outline the tasks, expectations, budget, and key performance indicators (KPIs) of the position. This detailed need assessment will guide us in finding the most suitable candidates.
2. Pay the Recruitment Fee
To kickstart the process, you will pay a one-time recruitment fee of $150 + GST. This will be included in the first monthly bill after the virtual staff is onboarded. Outshore accepts Visa and Mastercard as payment methods, but you may also opt for automatic direct debit payments.
3. Outshore Advertises the Position to a Pool of Possible Candidates
Outshore can help you find the most suitable talent, whether for digital marketing, web development, recruitment, bookkeeping, or accounting. We will handle the job posting, screening process, and vetting of applicants.
4. Top Candidates’ Information
Outshore will match the VA job description with the pool of applicants and select the best candidates. Afterward, they turn over the information on the top candidates for the company to review and assess.
5. Candidate Selection
While we do most of the administrative tasks of the recruitment process, you will have the final say on who moves to the final recruitment phase. After all, whoever they select could potentially be their future staff.
6. Candidate Interview
Once the firm has chosen its final list of candidates, Outshore will schedule an interview with the chosen candidates. We can set up the interview remotely through your preferred channels (e.g., Zoom or Meet). You will conduct the interviews, with Outshore offering technical support when needed,
7. Onboarding of Candidates
A smooth onboarding process can help build a successful long-term work relationship with your virtual staff. During this phase, Outshore will handle the initial administrative tasks, such as contracts and compliance paperwork.
The new staff would also receive a comprehensive onboarding package that includes company information, policies, procedures, and expectations. The newly hired VA needs to be granted access to relevant systems and platforms, so clear and concise training on the company’s processes, tools, and expectations should be provided.
8. Monthly Invoice for Ongoing Support
Once your virtual assistant is onboarded, Outshore provides continuous support to ensure seamless operations. You will receive a monthly invoice covering the VA’s salary, operational costs, and Outshore’s service fee. This invoice will also include any additional services availed, such as training, IT support, or upgraded tools.
Experience Seamless Hiring with Outshore AU
Hiring a Filipino virtual assistant through Outshore is a seamless and structured process that ensures businesses gain access to top-tier talent at a cost-effective rate. With ongoing support, performance monitoring, and administrative assistance, Outshore makes virtual staffing an efficient and hassle-free experience.
Ready to enhance your business with a dedicated virtual assistant? Contact Outshore today, and let us help you find the perfect talent to support your growth.