Types of VA Contracts | The VA World | Module 3 | Jam Blauta

Summary

In this training module for aspiring virtual assistants, Jam covers the three main types of contracts: full-time (40+ hours per week), part-time (under 40 hours), and project-based contracts (short-term, specific tasks). He shares valuable tips for managing multiple contracts, including checking contract terms, balancing workloads, considering time zones, and carefully planning deliverables. Emphasizing the importance of scheduling and quality, Jam advises virtual assistants to avoid overloading themselves and maintain open communication with clients to ensure productivity and well-being. The key takeaway is to work smart, stay organized, and manage time effectively to thrive as a freelancer.

Takeaways

• 😀 Full-time virtual assistants work 40+ hours per week for a single client.
• 😀 Part-time virtual assistants work less than 40 hours per week for a client (e.g., 10, 20, or 30 hours).
• 😀 Project-based contracts involve working on specific tasks for a fixed duration (e.g., a month).
• 😀 Always check your current contracts to ensure you are allowed to take on additional clients.
• 😀 Avoid over-committing by balancing the number of contracts you accept based on your capacity and time zones.
• 😀 Make sure the deliverables for each contract are manageable to avoid burnout and ensure quality work.
• 😀 Schedule tasks for each client in separate time slots to avoid conflicts and maintain focus.
• 😀 Stick to your planned schedule strictly to ensure that work quality does not decline.
• 😀 Balancing your workload properly prevents fatigue and enhances productivity as a virtual assistant.
• 😀 It’s important to communicate with clients if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unable to take on additional tasks.

Q & A

What are the three types of contracts a virtual assistant can have?

The three types of contracts for virtual assistants are full-time, part-time, and project-based. A full-time contract involves working 40+ hours per week, part-time is less than 40 hours, and project-based is for a specific task or project with a defined timeline.

What is the main difference between full-time and part-time contracts?

The main difference is the number of hours worked. Full-time contracts require 40 or more hours per week per client, while part-time contracts involve fewer than 40 hours, such as 10, 20, or 30 hours per week.

How does a project-based contract differ from full-time and part-time contracts?

A project-based contract is for a specific task or project with a clear duration, such as completing branding for a client over a month. Unlike full-time or part-time contracts, there is no ongoing commitment after the project is completed unless rehired for future work.

What should a virtual assistant consider before accepting multiple contracts?

Before accepting multiple contracts, a virtual assistant should review their current contracts for any exclusivity clauses, balance the number of contracts with their workload capacity, and consider time zone differences to avoid scheduling conflicts.

What are the risks of taking on multiple full-time contracts?

Taking on multiple full-time contracts can lead to burnout, as it may result in working excessive hours without proper rest. This can negatively affect productivity and health, so it’s important to balance contract types and maintain a sustainable workload.

How can a virtual assistant ensure a balanced workload when handling multiple contracts?

A virtual assistant can balance their workload by mixing different contract types (e.g., one full-time contract, multiple part-time or project-based contracts) and ensuring that they don't take on more work than they can realistically handle. They should also pay attention to time zone differences and avoid overcommitting.

Why is it important to check your contract before accepting new clients?

It’s crucial to check your current contracts to ensure you are not violating any exclusivity clauses or restrictions, such as being prohibited from working with clients in the same industry or providing similar services.

What role does scheduling play in managing multiple contracts?

Proper scheduling is key to managing multiple contracts effectively. A virtual assistant should assign specific time slots for each client to avoid overlapping and ensure that all tasks are completed on time. Consistent scheduling helps maintain productivity and prevents errors.

What can happen if a virtual assistant does not stick to their planned schedule?

If a virtual assistant doesn’t follow their planned schedule, the quality of their work may decline, which can lead to client dissatisfaction. This could result in clients leaving and negatively affect the virtual assistant’s reputation.

What are the key tips for handling multiple contracts without overworking yourself?

The key tips include reviewing your current contracts for restrictions, balancing the types of contracts you take on, assessing your deliverables to ensure they’re manageable, and sticking to a proper and strict schedule. Communication with clients is also essential to manage expectations.