As you embark on a working relationship with a virtual assistant, it's important to start small. Many authors make the mistake of handing over complex or undefined tasks too early, which leads to confusion and disappointment. Instead, begin with low-risk, clearly defined tasks that help both parties get comfortable.

Why Start Small?

Building a working relationship takes time. You're learning how your VA communicates, handles responsibilities, and aligns with your workflow. Starting small allows for:

• Trust-building

• Learning communication preferences

• Discovering strengths and weaknesses

• Evaluating follow-through and accountability

Characteristics of a Good First Task

1. Low-Stakes: Mistakes shouldn’t result in major losses. 2. Clear Instructions: It should be easy to explain and measurable. 3. Process-Oriented: Ideal tasks allow you to assess how well your VA follows direction.

Sample First Tasks for Author VAs

1. Organize Your Inbox: Use filters, folders, and templates. 2. Format a Blog Post: Give them a draft and instructions to upload and optimize. 3. Schedule a Week of Social Media: Provide the content and let them use Buffer or Hootsuite. 4. Segment Your Email List: Use your email platform to sort readers by tags or interests. 5. Create a Book Metadata Spreadsheet: Collect ISBNs, formats, blurbs, categories, etc.

The "Create a Process" Assignment

A powerful early task is: “Create a process for [something].” This teaches your VA how to document and systematize your workflow.

Example: “Create a process for running a newsletter campaign.”

• They research best practices

• Draft a checklist or doc

• Ask clarifying questions

• Deliver something reusable

This helps both of you:

• Identify knowledge gaps

• Build scalable processes

• Save time on future delegation

Managing Expectations

Don’t expect your VA to excel at everything out of the gate. Provide:

• A written task list

• Clear deadlines

• A communication schedule

• Constructive feedback

Use tools like Trello, Google Docs, or Loom to provide walkthroughs.

First 30 Days Gameplan

• Week 1: 1–2 admin tasks (low-risk)

• Week 2: Add marketing task

• Week 3: Assign a process doc or repeatable workflow

• Week 4: Review progress and plan next phase

Conclusion

Your VA relationship should start with clarity and patience. Great assistants become essential team members when you set them up to succeed.