Most of the interviews I have with potential clients are brief and informal–lasting no more than a half hour on the phone. I list my qualifications and experience on my website, and I think more often than not, it’s to find out pricing, contract terms, and make sure I pass the “drool test.” I had a prospect email me last week and wanted to talk to me about working together. We scheduled an appointment to talk. I called him and exchanged pleasantries, then he proceeded to his interview questions of me. I have to admit I was taken aback. I did not have any pre-rehearsed answers in my head and answered everything candidly and off-the-cuff.
This interview lasted an hour and included everything from what my educational and work experience was to my weakest skill area, to what my computer security was, to how I handle family emergencies as they relate to my business, to “if there was a natural disaster and your office was destroyed, would you still be able to keep your business open?”
Even though this interview caught me by surprise, I really appreciated it. Why? Because this guy was serious. He knew what he was looking for in a VA-someone that could not only deliver the work, but treats her business like such. I was able to give him my philosophies at the same time, what type of clients I like to work with, what is my biggest pet peeve when it comes to dealing with clients, and I really feel like it levelled our playing field. I told him that I don’t like a “boss-secretary” type relationship with my clients, I like to feel comfortable bringing up ideas that may help them in their business and work together to make my client’s business stronger.
I don’t think I answered every question perfectly. He pointed out to me that I should be doing an additional practice to protect my business and I certainly appreciated it. I’ve already taken steps to take care of that.
So, for you fellow VAs that are out there, reading this blog…be prepared! For the potential clients out there reading this, you may not need to interview a potential VA for an hour, but you should create a list of questions you’d like answered. When you’re done, don’t forget to let the VA ask some questions of you.