Published on: 03 December 2018
Last Updated on: 16 March 2022
Every entrepreneur wants to achieve growth and success in their businesses, one aspect that is very important in every business is the people who work for it and especially their leaders. A project manager must ensure that every project that the business is working on succeeds without failure or waste of resources. In this case, a project manager is expected to have topnotch skills and be strategic in everything he does. Being a leader, they are also expected to not only direct their respective teams but also exercise collaboration with everyone involved. Learn how to identify an elite project manager by checking for the following attributes.
1. Reliable Judgment:
A project manager is like any leader and is expected to make many important decisions in the company. He must also be able to strategically prioritize tasks at work to ensure that every aspect of each project is taken care of. His judgment in every decision is very important, and this includes his ability to determine project scope, budget, job scheduling, resource allocation and job assigning to every person in the team among other responsibilities. Brian Setencich warns that if a project manager makes a poor judgment in any of these responsibilities, the entire project is affected.
2. Communication Skills:
The project manager is expected to direct other people involved in the project and therefore must communicate all of his directives effectively. Also, a project is usually carried out by different people and everyone involved including the leaders is expected to work on building a positive relationship with other members of the team. The project manager should be able to communicate his directives and instructions in a result-oriented manner. An elite project manager should be able to ask the right questions, address everyone respectively and also listen to his team members because when they are free with their leader, it becomes easy to express their opinions and creativity.
3. Enhance Other People’s Skills:
An effective manager is one who can spot a strong opinion from his subordinates and is willing to listen and implement it in the organization if considered viable for the project. People feel more motivated to do more when their opinions and creativity is valued. A project manager should, therefore, give these people the freedom to showcase their skills and talents without limitation. If possible, he should also push for training and development of his team members for better results with the project and the overall performance of the organization.
4. Ability To Think And Act Strategically:
A project manager holds a very strategic position in an organization and therefore must be very tactical in every decision he makes. Brian Setencich insists that a project manager should be able to see the big picture in every aspect of the project he is managing and then direct others towards that vision. He is supposed to be very strategic when making every administrative and financial consideration. Another important consideration an elite manager is supposed to make is on how to assign jobs in the project whereby he matches skills and tasks in question without being biased.
5. Ability To Manage Risks:
The world today is changing at a high rate, and it is only those who are prepared for change who will be able to survive and thrive in such times. For instance technology advancement is very rapid and the internet keeps on introducing new aspects to people’s personal lives and businesses. Some of these changes might come as risk factors for a specific project, and a good project manager should be prepared before damage happens. An elite manager should remain active and agile in their mindset so as to effectively manage risks as soon as they are anticipated.
Recruiting leaders in a business can be more overwhelming than when acquiring any other employee because of the solidity of skills required. If you are hiring a project manager and you are not sure how to acquire an elite one, then consider working with an experienced employment agency.
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Virtual assistant jobs are becoming common among professionals who want flexibility and independence.
If you want job flexibility but want to showcase your organizational skills, you can apply for a virtual assistant role. Generally, most virtual assistant positions give you the chance to have an excellent work-life balance.
In this article, you will learn general details about the virtual assistant job role. Apart from that, this article also consists of some popular virtual assistant jobs in the market.
Additionally, you will learn about the eligibility and qualifications for virtual assistant jobs. Finally, you will learn how to apply for such a job role.
Virtual Assistant Jobs: A General Overview
A virtual assistant provides administrative services to companies or clients. Basically, they operate away from the company’s office premises.
Generally, a virtual assistant can be a professional or an independent contractor. They operate from their home office. However, they can access all the important aspects of the company.
In general, people who work as virtual assistants have several years of experience as an administrative assistant or office manager.
Moreover, new opportunities for virtual assistants with social media and content management skills are coming up. Furthermore, companies seek virtual assistants with skills like blog writing, graphic designing, and internet marketing.
Nowadays, working from home has become a norm for employers and workers. Hence, the demand for virtual assistants is increasing day by day.
Top Virtual Assistant Jobs To Look Out For
Many companies are offering virtual executive assistant jobs and online assistant jobs to experienced individuals who can work remotely.
The following are some virtual assistant jobs you can apply for:
Virtual Assistant - Social Media Company: Live It UpJob Type: Part Time (25 hours per week) Salary: $5/hour USD Finance Assistant - Virtual R&P OfficeCompany: World ReliefJob Type: Full-Time Salary: $45T - $50T (Employer Est.) Virtual AssistantCompany: Travel To Freedom Job Type: Part Time (20 hours per week) Salary: Up to $17.28-$25 per hour Virtual Assistant Company: SF Global Consultancy Ltd. Job Type: Full-time Salary: $29,000.00 - $32,000.00 per year Mandarin Interpreter/ Virtual Assistant Company: Charter Group of Companies Job Type: Part Time (1-10 hours per week) Salary: $12.00 - $17.00 per hour Virtual Banking Assistant III - Plano, TX Company: JPMorganChase Job Type: Full Time Salary: Not Available Virtual Administrative Assistant - PT Flex ScheduleCompany: Melville Management Corp Job Type: Part Time Salary: $40/hour USD Purchasing Assistant (Remote - MI) Company: Otto Bock Patient Care, LLC Job Type: Full Time (at least 40 hours per week) Salary: $18.00 per hour
How Do Virtual Assistants Work?
Generally, nowadays, startups rely more on virtual offices to keep the costs down for their businesses. However, the use of the internet increases in such cases. Hence, there has been an increase in the rise of virtual assistants for businesses.
Basically, a virtual assistant is an independent contractor. Hence, when a business hires a virtual assistant, it does not have to provide the same benefits or pay the same taxes that they do for a full-time employee.
On the other hand, a virtual assistant is also different from a normal administrator who works from home. The latter is just another employee with the same compensation and tax structure for the company.
Moreover, a virtual assistant does not work onsite. Hence, the company does not need a desk or a workspace. Rather, the virtual assistant has their own computer equipment, workspace, software programs, and high-speed internet.
Essential Requirements Of Virtual Assistant Jobs
Generally, the duties of a virtual assistant vary according to the needs and demands of the company or the client. Apart from that, it can change as per the contract terms.
The following are some of the major requirements of virtual assistant jobs:
👨🏻💻Duties Of A Virtual Assistant
If you want to be a virtual assistant, you must learn about the duties of the job role. However, you must understand that a virtual assistant has no common duties. Generally, your duties can change depending on the needs and requirements of your client and the terms of the contract.
In terms of tasks, some virtual assistants handle clerical or bookkeeping tasks. On the other hand, other virtual assistants post updates on social media or write blogs for the company.
Apart from that, the company can also hire an individual who is well-rounded and can handle other tasks like travel arrangements, data entry, scheduling, file storage, etc.
👨🏻💻Qualification Of Virtual Assistants
To become a virtual assistant, there are no proper educational requirements. However, most companies prefer those individuals who have a higher level of education. Moreover, getting special administration and virtual assistance training helps a lot in this regard.
Apart from that, some online companies and community colleges offer certifications and courses on virtual assistance. Hence, if you are unsure where to start, you can look for various virtual assistant courses on top platforms offering professional skills.
Generally, a virtual assistant must be tech-savvy and have enough skills to understand various computer software and business platforms.
For instance, if you are good at bookkeeping as a virtual assistant, you must also be able to perform basic accounting tasks. These include account reconciliations and double-entry bookkeeping.
Virtual Assistant Jobs: How To Get One?
The following are the major steps you must take if you want to get a virtual assistant job for yourself:
1. Develop The Skills
Before searching for virtual assistant jobs, you must assess your current skills. For instance, it is really important to have skills like communication and time management. However, you also need technical skills like MS Excel, Content Management System, HR systems, and more.
Moreover, you must be willing to conduct research and know how to deal with clients. Also, check job descriptions to learn about specific software or processes you need to learn. If possible, get the necessary training for the skill you need to learn.
2. Create A Business Plan
If you want to work as a freelance virtual assistant, you first need to create a business plan. Once you write a business plan, it will help bring structure to your career plans. Hence, you can define your target market, services, financial goals, and more.
Also, you can include information about how to handle your clients. Moreover, you can focus on the pricing structure of your business. Apart from that, you also need to handle invoices and payments for your virtual assistance business.
3. Create A Home Office Space
You need a dedicated home office space to work as a virtual assistant for your business. However, you do not need an entire room for it. All you need is an organized and quiet space to work from.
Apart from that, you must also set up a phone line using a virtual phone system. This will help you take business calls.
4. Create A Professional Portfolio
As you grow as a virtual assistant, you must consider showcasing your skills and experience to potential clients. Also, make sure to get resume tips to build a professional resume for your job role.
Additionally, you can include client testimonials, past projects, and relevant certifications. Moreover, you can create work samples if you want to get client work at the start.
5. Develop A Strong Online Presence
Apart from having a portfolio of your projects and achievements, you must also have a strong online presence. This will increase your credibility as a virtual assistant. Apart from that, you also need to have active social media accounts and listings in business directories.
Moreover, you can build your online presence faster if you respond to potential clients. Furthermore, you can use online platforms like LinkedIn to network with other professionals.
6. Start Networking On Various Platforms
One of the most effective growth strategies is word-of-mouth advertising. This can help you grow your virtual assistance business faster. Here, you can contact your friends, alumni, and family and tell them about your services.
Apart from that, you must develop new connections. To do this, you can attend networking events, conferences, and seminars to help you network with other virtual assistants.
7. Start Looking For Jobs And Client
As you continue your interview prep, you must research quality clients. One of the best ways to get quality clients is to stick to top platforms. However, you must be proactive with your follow-ups and communicate professionally.
How To Get A Virtual Assistant Job Without Any Experience?
To get a virtual assistant job without any experience, you will need to do the following:
Start developing your software skills by learning about different software systems that virtual assistants use.
Learn how to create a business plan.
Create your own portfolio by working on internships and projects.
Build your network on top professional platforms like LinkedIn.
Basically, you must understand that most employers look for experienced managers when they want virtual assistants. Hence, it is better for a beginner (with no experience) to start as an intern.
Getting Your Virtual Assistant Job
If you are looking for a virtual assistant job, you do not need previous experience. However, it always helps if someone knows how to work remotely. Moreover, you can take courses to learn communication and administrative software to enhance your virtual assistance skills.
Do you have more suggestions on how to get a virtual assistant job? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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If you’re still in the phase of life where you’re figuring out the best job for you, there’s probably a lot on your mind. It takes a lot of “soul searching” and research to decide on a career that you’ll love.
Contrary to some people’s beliefs, loving your career can be important. So here are some tips on how to choose a career.
Explore Your Interests
As you’re thinking about what to do for a career, think about the kinds of things that pique your interest. For example, you might be really into dentistry and want to find out what a career would be like.
Explore what kind of jobs are available in that field. Whether you decide to become a dentist or study a dental assistant program. Knowing that you’re interested in a specific industry can help you narrow down your options.
Ponder On Your Passions
When it comes to your passions, there could be clues in there.
You could find that there are career choices that align with your passions and that could actually be ideal for your future.
Perhaps you love a good debate, and you’re always found debating some topic or another.
In this type of scenario, you could always consider getting into law or something similar. The kind that puts you in touch with the kind of experiences that you already enjoy having. It doesn’t hurt to be passionate about what you do to make money.
Think About Your Skills
Your passions and interests are clues to the type of career that could interest you. If you’re looking to narrow it down even more, you may want to think about your talents.
If you know you have a knack for words, something that aligns with that skill could be an ideal fit. Maybe you’re a musical person? Getting into a career where your skills allow you to be naturally good. It is also something that makes your future career a lot easier.
It helps to use your talent in your work because even if you have to study for a degree to succeed at it. Therefore, you’ll have an easier time at it than someone who may not have the natural skills that you do.
Talk To Experienced Mentors
As you try to decide what work would be best for you, talk to experienced mentors. They can help you know which way to go by providing a road map of what has worked best for them.
This could be someone you know who has had a long career in the field you like. Or it could be a mentor from your school’s mentorship program.
Either way, speaking to a person who has experience in a career you’re considering can be beneficial to you and your decision-making.
Try Interning
Before understanding how to choose a career, you can always dip your toes into different career options.
Internships are one of them!
While most people will do an internship as they are close to graduating from school, you could always try for an internship just to try out certain jobs. As long as you already have some natural skill or know-how in it.
You may not receive a lot of pay, but at least you gain the insight to know whether or not it's the job that you want in your future. It doesn’t hurt to explore options before deciding on the ultimate career path for you. It’s a big decision, don’t be afraid of not taking it lightly.
From internships to mentors, exploring your passions, skills, and interests, and making a decision on your career. However, it can be simplified by pondering the concepts mentioned above.
Life is long, and so is a career, so take your time making a decision like this one.
How Professional Career Counseling Can Help
Deciding what you want to do with your life can be tough, even in the best of circumstances.
Fortunately, there are experts who are ready to help you make sense of it all. If you’re wondering how to figure out what career is right for you, a career counselor can steer you in the right direction. Here’s why.
Understanding Your Aptitude
Career counselors know how to help people tap into their own wants and needs when it comes to understanding what kind of work will spark joy.
They’ll ask questions designed to uncover the activities that energize and excite you most in life. Then, show you how those things connect with potential careers that could be incredibly fulfilling.
It Will Be Personal To Your Needs
Another good thing about career counseling is that it’s individualized. Career counselors won’t give you a general answer to a generalized problem.
They’ll focus on your specific character, strengths and weaknesses, desires, and problems. From there, they can assist you in figuring out what careers would work best for someone with your qualities and abilities.
Regardless of whether you need to pick a vocation interestingly or are pondering about an alternate one. This is when customized guidance can represent the critical moment in your prosperity.
Direct Assistance (Whenever You Are Lost)
Career advisors are additionally incredible for offering direct assistance.
They also help you improve your resume, act in interviews, and even fruitful organizing aptitudes, all of which can be significant when hoping to get a new position or to find employment elsewhere.
Plus, if you’re not even sure what kind of qualifications you need, or education, for that matter, career counseling can help with that, too.
They will basically map out exactly what you need to do, from checking out different degree options to see what is best for you at the time to figuring out where the market is headed.
It’s all in their master plan for you!
Ultimately, career counseling exists because people need help making educated decisions about their careers.
If this looks like it’s impossible to navigate your way without some sort of guidance (let’s face it, some of us really don’t have a clue), then a career counselor could be your key.
Why try to figure it out on your own and get overwhelmed when there are professionals who can make that twisted path straight?
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Working out of necessity is what mostly everyone can relate to; working because you love your job is rare. If you are looking for a change, a different job, something that makes you feel useful and joyful, you need to research the company before you apply.
If you research a company through an online site like Hush, you will get to know many things about that business. You will learn about the salaries as well as the office hours and what is expected of you as an employee. Best of all, research will give you an idea of whether you will fit in and like the position or not.
Below are 5 useful tips to help you research a company before you apply there. This could help you find your dream career.
1. Go to The Source
When researching a company, always go to their website. This is where you will find the "About" section. Read this part carefully as it will tell you how the company came into form and why.
You will want to read the "Who-is-Who" section of the website as well. You don't have to commit any of this to memory, but you should know who the top people are in the company you want to work for.
Also, read over the “Mission - Vision Statement” because this is where you will find out what the company stands for and why.
2. The Company's Competitors
When looking at a company you are considering applying for, look at their competitors as well. Unless the business is so unique it has no competition, there is always another company who is doing the same thing.
You would want to know the reason behind the opposition so you can discuss possible ways to improve the business if you get the job. Knowing what others are doing and either doing the same or better, is always a plus to the bosses.
3. Network
Find an employee list and see if you know any of them. If you do, great, you can talk to them and ask how they like the job and the company. If you don't know any of the employees, ask your friends and family if they know anyone who is working there or had worked at some point.
Talking to former and current employees will give you an "insider’s" look at how the company treats their employees. If you live in a smaller town, you could find an employee much easily. Getting a firsthand account of the working conditions allows you to make more informed decision on whether or not you want to work at this company.
4. Business Reports
Not every company is featured in a nationwide magazine, but a lot of cities have local business magazines. Check at the public library, or online, and find out if the company you are researching has ever had an article written about them.
Even the local newspaper could have a write-up or two about the company you are considering. Try to find any and all media, both good and bad, about the company to help you make a better decision about working for them.
5. Charity
Through the company's website, you may be able to discover if they support a certain charity. A company that shares its wealth is worth taking a second look at as a possible employee.
Armed with information, you can wow the interviewer and hope to become the next employee of the month.
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