What are the Steps to Finding an Exceptional Personal Assistant?
People in high-pressure positions, such as CEOs and business managers, often need help with completing daily tasks more quickly. A personal assistant can help lighten the load and make life easier. However, not all personal assistants are created equal. It is important to take the necessary steps to find an exceptional personal assistant from the start.
Finding a Qualified Personal Assistant
Before you start the search for the perfect personal assistant, it is important to understand what you are looking for so that you can adequately search for a qualified candidate. Here are a few items to consider requesting when seeking a personal assistant:
• Experience as a personal assistant
• Availability to do the job
• Understanding of professional office duties
• Flexibility with time
• Technical skills
• Organizational skills
• Team-player attitude
• Problem-solving skills
It is helpful to create a clear job description when advertising the position. This will help candidates to know exactly what is expected if they decide to apply. To reach the best possible candidates, consider posting the job in multiple locations, such as job boards, employer websites, local newspapers, or anywhere you can get your message out.
Begin the Interview Process
When attempting to find an exceptional personal assistant, the interview process should be taken seriously. First, set up phone and video interviews to get a better understanding of each candidate’s knowledge, skills, and experience. Remember to look for a great attitude, technical and organizational skills, as well as their ability to think outside of the box.
After the initial round of interviews, you can then invite the most promising candidates in for personal interviews to discuss the job further. During the in-person interview, ask various questions to get an understanding of the individual’s qualifications and experience. The more information you can gain in the interview, the better.
Take the Necessary Tests
It is essential that any potential candidates are given a personality test or skills test to make sure they are a good fit for the job. These tests should allow you to assess many characteristics of each person such as:
• Communication skills
• Ability to multitask
• Organization and attention to detail
• Problem-solving skills
• Adaptability to difficult situations
• Initiative-taking
• Time management
These tests should help you to understand if the individual has the skills necessary to be an exceptional personal assistant.
Check Their References
It is important to contact references to ensure that the potential candidate is qualified and trustworthy. These references should include a reference from a previous employer or colleague who can attest to the individual’s capability of handling the position. Additionally, it is imperative to run background checks on all potential employees, including any personal assistants you are considering.
Preparing a Contract
Now that you’ve done the research, identified the best candidate, and conducted the necessary tests, it is time to create a contract. The contract should clearly outline the duties of the job, such as working hours, salary, etc., as well as their rights and expectations. This will help all parties feel secure in their dealings.
It is important to take the necessary steps to find an exceptional personal assistant, who will be able to provide efficient and skilled help to any individual who needs it. By thoroughly researching, interviewing, and testing potential candidates, you can ensure that you make the best hire for your needs. Additionally, clearly outlining job duties, responsibilities, and expectations in a contract provides peace of mind for both employer and employee.
