One important point to keep in mind when working with a VA is to keep the doors of communication open.
Understand that even though a very explicit email of instructions is written, there are times the VA will have questions or seek clarification. Be open and prepared for questions from your VA.
I have a European client who speaks very good English, but as we are used to American English there is sometimes difficulty in grasping instructions due to his wording. To his credit, our European client is a patient and open person. He would always say, “I am very sorry my instructions were not clear, let us talk so it would be easier for you to understand.” Needless to say our work for this client is usually smooth sailing as he is approachable and open to communication.
In contrast, we have another client who seems to constantly get irritated when asked questions. Nevertheless we persist in order to do the tasks correctly. But his attitude is not recommended for effective use of your VA.
It is important for a client to give the VA a brief background of the task he has assigned. Understanding the reason behind the task will give the VA more insight on what is expected and what the expected results are.
Be open to suggestions from your VA. We have one client who I advised to not use the marketing strategy he is implementing, as based on experience, it doesn’t get the expected results. He insisted we use it and as VAs we don’t have a choice but to follow his instructions. Needless to say the entire project didn’t give the expected results.
Establishing a great communication line with your VA will boost confidence with you and the job thus you will get the best out of your VA.