Managing someone you never see in person takes a slightly different approach than managing in an office. This article covers how to keep a remote working relationship running smoothly long after onboarding.
How often should I check in with my VA?
A short regular check-in — weekly for most roles, more often in the first month — keeps both sides aligned without becoming a burden. Async updates (a quick daily message on what got done) work well between calls and don't require both of you to be online at once.
What's the best way to give feedback remotely?
Give feedback specifically and promptly rather than saving it up. Written feedback is easy to misread as harsher than intended, so lead with what's working before addressing what needs to change, and be clear about the specific task or behavior, not general impressions.
How do I avoid micromanaging?
Set clear expectations and deadlines up front, then judge by outcomes rather than watching every step. If you find yourself checking in multiple times a day on routine tasks, that's usually a sign the initial instructions weren't clear enough — fix the instructions, not the check-in frequency.
Where should ongoing hiring conversations happen?
Keep hiring and work conversations inside your VA International messaging area so everything about the role stays in one place rather than scattered across email and chat apps. Messages are easiest to manage when you keep them focused on the task, next steps, and timelines.
What if communication with my VA breaks down?
Address it directly and early — most breakdowns come from unclear expectations, not lack of effort. If a working relationship genuinely isn't working out despite clear communication, it's better to end it cleanly (see the contracts article) than let a mismatched fit drag on for both sides.