10 Red Flags to Look Out for When Choosing a Virtual Executive Assistant Service Provider
There are lots of options for companies that offer Virtual Executive Assistant (VEA) services, but not all are going to give you what you’re looking for. Choosing the right service provider can make a big difference in your productivity and overall satisfaction. Here are some key things to look out for when making your decision.
1. Beware of Super Low Pricing
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Super low pricing often means you’re not getting a true Executive Assistant. Instead of a highly skilled professional who can provide strategic support, you might be getting someone with limited experience or capabilities.
Additionally, with rock-bottom prices, you’re likely just another number on their customer list. This means minimal and generic customer support rather than the personalized assistance that can truly enhance your experience. Be wary of bargain-basement prices that sacrifice quality for cost.
2. The Risks of Offshore Executive Assistants
Offshore Executive Assistants can sometimes be a gamble. Job descriptions and expectations for Executive Assistants can vary greatly between countries, so you might not be getting the support you need. Additionally, communication challenges can arise due to cultural differences, such as the use of sarcasm, which might not translate well.
Time-zone differences can also be a significant hurdle. If your Executive Assistant is on the other side of the world, coordinating schedules and getting timely responses can become problematic. Lastly, lower rates often mean high turnover. Without a commitment to long-term employment, you might find yourself constantly dealing with new Executive Assistants who need to be brought up to speed.
3. Skills Alone Aren't Enough
Skills are crucial, but they’re not everything. An Executive Assistant who doesn't align with your work style or personality can turn a potentially great partnership into a chore. If you dread talking to your Executive Assistant and working together feels like another task rather than a relief, it’s a sign that the match isn’t right.
That’s why it’s important to find a service provider, like Worxbee, that matches you with Executive Assistants not just based on skills, but also on personality, work style, and values. A well-rounded match ensures that your Executive Assistant feels like a true partner, making your work life easier and more enjoyable.
4. Get a Say in Your Pairing
Service providers are experts in finding ideal matches, but there’s still a human aspect that can’t be calculated on paper. Meeting face-to-face and seeing if you truly vibe with the person is crucial. If you don’t get a say in who you’re paired with, you might end up with an Executive Assistant who doesn’t quite fit your needs.
That’s why it’s important to choose a provider that allows you to have a say in the selection process. At Worxbee, we hand-select matches that are a perfect fit for you, and then you get to interview multiple candidates to select your perfect match. This ensures that your Executive Assistant isn’t just skilled but also someone you genuinely enjoy working with.
5. No Customer Service? No Thanks!
Ever signed up for a service and then had a question or needed support but couldn’t get ahold of anyone? It’s frustrating and can be a major setback. Some Executive Assistant service providers might find you a great match at a great price point, but then they don’t offer any ongoing support.
If you want to ensure you’re always supported, be sure to inquire about customer service during your initial consultations. At Worxbee, we provide ongoing support from a dedicated Customer Success Manager to ensure that you and your Executive Assistant have everything you need to succeed. Whether it’s a quick question or a major issue, we’re here to help every step of the way.
6. Free Re-Matching is Essential
Things change. You might find that you don’t get along as well as you hoped with your Executive Assistant, or your business needs could evolve, requiring a different type of support. Your initial Executive Assistant might not be the best fit for these new tasks, and that’s okay.
Make sure you select a provider that offers free re-matching so you aren’t hit with unexpected expenses down the road. With Worxbee, your happiness is guaranteed. We provide free re-matching to ensure you always have the right support, no matter how your needs change.
7. Beware of Mixed Messaging
Does their website say “Executive Assistant” in some places and “Virtual Assistant” in others? These are two completely different roles, so be wary if they are using the terms interchangeably. This could indicate confusion or a lack of clarity about the level of support they provide.
Make sure to ask questions to uncover what level of support you will really be getting. Clarity is key to ensuring you get the professional assistance you need. At Worxbee, we specialize in and only offer top-tier Executive Assistant support. Our focus is exclusively on providing the highest quality Executive Assistant services.
RELATED: Do You Need a Virtual Assistant or a Virtual Executive Assistant?
8. Watch Out for Hidden Fees
The base fee might look great at first, but then they start adding on charges for onboarding, re-matching, specific tasks, and more. These hidden fees can really start to add up, leaving you with a much larger bill than you expected.
Make sure you understand all potential costs before signing up so you aren’t surprised down the road. With Worxbee, we offer a monthly flat-fee with no onboarding costs, no fees for re-matching, and no hourly fees for special tasks. Just seamless support with no surprises.
9. Inadequate Vetting Process
Not all service providers have a thorough vetting process for their Executive Assistants. This can lead to inconsistent quality and skills among the assistants they offer. Ensuring that your Executive Assistant is highly qualified and reliable is crucial for your success.
At Worxbee, we have a rigorous pre-vetting and testing process to bring in only the best Executive Assistants. Our thorough selection process guarantees that you are matched with top-tier professionals who are ready to provide exceptional support.
10. Avoid One-Size-Fits-All Solutions
A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works in the world of Executive Assistance. Some providers might offer standard packages without considering your unique needs and preferences. Look for a service provider that offers customized solutions tailored to your specific requirements. At Worxbee, we pride ourselves on offering personalized support that fits your individual needs perfectly.
Make the Right Choice for Your Success
Choosing the right Virtual Executive Assistant service provider can make all the difference in your productivity and overall satisfaction. By keeping an eye out for these key factors, you can ensure you’re selecting a provider that truly understands and meets your needs. From avoiding hidden fees and ensuring proper vetting to seeking personalized matches and reliable customer support, these considerations will help you find the perfect fit for your business.
Take the Next Step with Worxbee
Ready to experience top-tier Virtual Executive Assistant support tailored to your unique needs? Get started with Worxbee today! Our rigorous vetting process, personalized matching, and ongoing support ensure you get the best Executive Assistant experience possible. Don’t settle for less—choose Worxbee for seamless and professional Executive Assistant services that elevate your productivity and success.
Schedule a complimentary consultation to get started and find your perfect Executive Assistant match!
