People skills are a necessity in all areas of life but can be particularly effective when working as a virtual assistant. These often neglected characteristics can make all the difference in whether or not you are hired by a potential client. Below are 10 people skills that will make you a competent, capable, and most impressive business partner.
Interpersonal Communication
This is perhaps one of the most fundamental people skills of all. Express yourself simply and clearly so that both you and your client understand each other. Strong communication can build a firm foundation for your business relationship.
Consistent Reliability
A business owner needs to know they can count on you. Their career and reputation may be on the line. When you commit to completing a project, be sure you finish it on time and in the manner expected.
Effective Time-Management
Knowing how to manage your time can be tricky but it can be done. Rule of thumb is to always give yourself more time than you think you need. For example, if you think a project may take 8 hours to accomplish, plan on at least 10 – 12. The more you practice effective time-management, the easier it will become.
Calming Patience
It can be difficult to work with people at times. Having the necessary patience to work with a high-maintenance client or explain a simple project effectively will require understanding and kindness.
Active Listening
The ability to truly listen to someone without interrupting or forming a response in your head while the other person is talking is a lost art form these days. Practice listening to your clients. Then repeat back what they said so they know you heard them and understood what they were trying to communicate.
Next week we’ll discuss 5 more highly valuable people skills you need to practice in order to be an effective and sought-after virtual assistant.