How to Deal with the Feeling of "I Don't Know if My VA is Doing the Work I'm Delegating”

If you’re feeling frustrated about whether your virtual assistant (VA) is actually completing the tasks you’ve delegated, you’re not alone. This concern is common in remote work environments, where the absence of face-to-face interaction can lead to uncertainty about productivity and engagement.

Understanding the Remote Work Challenge

In a traditional office setting, you can gauge a staff member's engagement through daily interactions—seeing them at their desk, hearing their questions, and engaging in casual conversations. These small moments provide valuable feedback and reassurance about their work. In a remote setup, however, you miss out on these visual cues, which can lead to feelings of doubt about your VA’s efforts. 

Transitioning to Structured Tasks

To combat this uncertainty, it’s crucial to adjust how you assign tasks. Instead of giving open-ended assignments, consider providing structured, limited tasks with clear expectations. Here are some practical tips:

1. Be Specific: Instead of saying, “Please update all records in my CRM,” try, “Update 100 records in my CRM and send me a report by the end of the week.” This clarity helps your VA understand exactly what you need.

2. Request Reports: Asking your VA to send a report at the end of each task can offer you insight into their progress. Encourage them to include screenshots of their work whenever possible. For instance, instead of just a text report, a screenshot of the updated records provides tangible proof of their efforts.

3. Feedback Loop: When they submit their reports, take the time to review them and provide constructive feedback. This not only helps your VA understand your expectations better but also reinforces the importance of accountability.

4. Adjust for Different Tasks: Not all tasks will allow for screenshots. For activities like social media management, ask for a written report detailing what they accomplished—like the number of new connections made or posts scheduled.

Embrace the Extra Work

Yes, requesting detailed reports and updates may add to your VA’s workload. However, they’re being compensated for their time, and most VAs appreciate clear guidance. This extra effort will provide you with peace of mind, knowing that tasks are being handled effectively.

Conclusion 

Feeling uncertain about your VA’s work is normal, but with structured task management and regular reporting, you can alleviate those worries. Establishing clear expectations not only boosts your confidence but also enhances your VA’s performance and accountability. By fostering open communication and providing feedback, you can create a more effective working relationship, ensuring that both you and your VA are on the same page.

Hope these tips help you navigate the challenges of remote delegation. Have a great day!