Virtual Assistants (VAs), I know it’s easy to get lost in the sea of tasks and forget what makes us human. But hey, who said professionalism can’t have a personal touch?

So, how do we bring that human element into our Virtual Assistant roles without losing the plot?

Be more than just a task robot

Remember, you're not just a task-ticking machine. While handling emails and schedules is part of our job, human interactions make your role **unique.**
Crack a joke, share a relatable story, and show empathy! These little human touches build stronger, more meaningful connections with your clients.

Listen up and get personal

Excellent communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about listening— **really** listening. Understand your client’s needs, business quirks, and pain points. This isn’t just about being a good listener; it’s about making your clients feel seen and understood. Personalise your interactions—a simple check-in about their day can make a difference.

Flexibility is your superpower

Things change a lot in digital industries like ours, and they change fast. My advice is just to embrace it. Whether it’s a last-minute request or a sudden change in plans, your ability to adapt is essential. Show your clients that no matter what’s thrown your way, you’ve got it covered with a cool head and a can-do attitude.

Honesty is still the best policy

Mistakes? They happen to the best of us but the key is how you handle them.

Be upfront and honest about slip-ups, and then offer solutions, not excuses. This builds trust and shows your clients that you’re reliable and accountable. Remember, trust is the foundation of any solid working relationship.

Keep learning and growing as a Virtual Assistant

The Virtual Assistant industry is always evolving, and so should you. Continue to learn. Keeping your skills sharp is an important part of keeping yourself up-to-date and relevant, whether it’s a new social media platform, an emerging tech tool, or an efficiency hack. This makes you a valuable asset and keeps your work exciting and challenging.

Remember, you’re not just an email address

Behind every task is a person with a story.

Share yours. Let your clients know who’s behind the keyboard. Share a bit about your hobbies, your favourite Netflix binge, or your weekend plans. These personal snippets make you relatable and turn professional relationships into friendly partnerships.

Set boundaries, stay balanced

While being personable shows people we are still human and not just a robot, remember to set healthy boundaries. It’s easy to blur the lines between personal and professional when you’re working remotely. Establish precise working hours, communicate your availability, and respect your time because if you don't, who will?

This will help you avoid burnout but also set a professional tone.

Feedback is your friend

Encourage and welcome all feedback. It’s a great way to understand what works and what doesn’t from your client's perspective. This two-way street of feedback ensures continuous improvement and client satisfaction, but remember not to take it personally but to use it to make improvements.

So there you have it.

Being a virtual assistant is about blending efficiency with empathy and professionalism with personality. It’s about being adaptable, honest, and always ready to learn.

But most importantly, it’s about being unapologetically human.

Bring your true self to your work, and watch how it transforms your professional relationships and the quality of your work.

The Human Element: Bringing Authenticity to Your Virtual Assistant Role