Hiring a virtual assistant is more than checking off a to-do list—it’s about building a working relationship that supports your business long term. Whether you’re an overwhelmed entrepreneur or a growing team, knowing the right questions to ask before hiring a virtual assistant can make or break the success of your partnership. While rates and availability matter, the most valuable insights come from asking questions that reveal communication style, problem-solving skills, and alignment with your business values.
Why These Questions Matter
It’s tempting to rush into hiring based on a glowing resume or referral. But smart business owners know the real gold lies in deeper conversations. Asking the right questions before hiring a virtual assistant can uncover how a VA will actually function within your systems and support your specific goals. Better questions lead to better matches—and that’s something both clients and high-performing VAs want.
Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Virtual Assistant
-
What’s your approach to managing competing priorities?
VAs often juggle multiple clients or projects. Understanding how they handle pressure shows whether they’ll keep you organized or add to your chaos. -
Can you share an example of a creative solution you provided to a client?
This gives you a glimpse into their critical thinking—not just task execution. -
Which tools do you use most often and why?
You want someone who can jump into your current systems or offer better ones that save time and improve workflows. -
How do you prefer to communicate, and how frequently?
Misaligned communication is one of the biggest reasons partnerships fail. Set the tone early for expectations on calls, updates, and boundaries. -
How do you protect client information and maintain confidentiality?
Trust is key in any VA-client relationship, and the right candidate will have a system in place.
What Smart VAs Hope You’ll Ask
Believe it or not, experienced virtual assistants appreciate clients who ask thoughtful, strategic questions. It means you’re looking to build something collaborative and sustainable. Questions like “What kind of clients do you do your best work with?” or “What helps you thrive in a partnership?” invite open dialogue—and lay the foundation for mutual success.
Want a deeper look at what VAs actually do day-to-day? Check out What Does a Virtual Assistant Really Do? to understand the full range of services you can expect.