One sure sign that it’s time to seek help in your business is that you are no longer as productive as you once were because you are trying to do too much. Once you’ve come to the point that help is needed the next step is to determine just how much. You can find your answer by evaluating your time, budget and your business as a whole.
How many assistants do you really need? This will vary from business owner to business owner. It is your decision to determine which areas of your business need the most help from another person or professional. Take into consideration not only the amount of money you’ll need, but also how much time you have to devote to certain areas of your business. The more time you have the less likely you are to need multiple assistants.
Most likely you will want to hire assistants in the areas of your business you feel weakest or just don’t have the time to complete. For instance, if you are not good with or don’t like numbers seek the help of a bookkeeper of certified public accountant. Another important area that you may need help in is legal matters. For those who have businesses where it’s essential that you be protected, hiring an attorney is important.
Your needs may not even be as technical as those things. If you find yourself struggling with the amount of time it takes to answer emails, consider hiring a virtual assistant to handle this task. Have a hectic schedule that you don’t have time to plan or can’t seem to keep up with? Hire someone to help out with scheduling appointments and other various clerical tasks.
In some cases you might need assistance in all of these areas and then some. Only you can truly determine your ultimate needs. Whatever the case, don’t be afraid to seek out help. Once you have found others who can efficiently help your business function and grow, you’ll be glad you planned ahead. You’ll soon start to see the results of having a hand in your business and be glad you took the steps necessary to enlist that help.
I am back to do everything on my own – ourtsourcing or having an assistant was a nightmare for me
I aggree with Tom.
Having an assistant is all well and good but for a small business paying for holiday and sick leave etc can be very costly.
Great blog – will definately be checking back in!
Hi Alice!
Outsourcing is something I need to look into
I just find it hard “letting go” and trusting somebody to do it as good as
I think i can do it
Although I haven’t used them yet I hear Odesk is a good site to use
Jack
Having a virtual assistant has done wonders for many small business owners. The beauty of the virtual assistant for the small business owner is no holiday and sick pay, no lunch time to pay…only time on task is paid by the minute. The key to any successful virtual assistant-client relationship is having that perfect match and knowing the limitations and abilities to best serve the client.
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I can understand the advantages of having an assistant but does it equal the expense endured. Value for money is what I always advise but make sure your getting your moneys worth. Great article thanks for sharing