Most business owners believe they’re easy to work with—but good clients are more than friendly. They respect collaboration, value expertise, and foster partnerships. If you’ve read other blogs on how to be a good client and thought, my VA loves me, it might be time to take a closer look.

VAs Are Not Employees

When you hire a virtual assistant, you’re not bringing on a traditional employee—you’re hiring a business. VAs walk the line between service provider and teammate. Treating them like employees who just take orders will limit the value they bring. Good clients understand that their VA isn’t just executing tasks but thinking critically to support business growth.

Micromanaging a VA not only wastes your time but stifles their creativity. Let go of the daily oversight. Give clear instructions, yes—but also offer space to contribute ideas. Remember, many virtual assistants only work 20 to 60 hours a month for you. That’s not much time to learn your tone, vision, and brand. Be patient.

Partnership Starts With Trust

Being a good client means listening to feedback. Your VA might suggest a more efficient workflow or recommend a platform you hadn’t considered. Don’t dismiss those suggestions too quickly—this is their area of expertise. Strong partnerships grow from mutual respect, open communication, and a willingness to trust.

Treat your VA the way you would want to be treated. Be responsive. Be respectful. And don’t forget—they’re in this work because they care. They want to make a difference in your business. That relationship only thrives when both sides feel heard and valued.

Final Thought

Virtual assistants don’t just want a contract—they want a connection. Good clients know the difference and invest in it. The result? Better output, smoother workflows, and a team that actually enjoys showing up for you.