A new virtual assistant’s first week sets the tone for everything that follows. A simple onboarding checklist makes sure nothing important gets missed and your new hire feels set up to succeed.
Access and tools
List every tool they will need and how they will get access, securely. Email, task manager, communication channel, any software, and shared folders. Sorting access on day one prevents days of stop-and-go.
Context about your business
A short overview of what you do, who your customers are, and how the business works. Your VA makes far better decisions when they understand the bigger picture, not just the individual tasks.
The first tasks, documented
Start with two or three clearly documented tasks rather than a flood of vague requests. Each should have an outcome, any context, and a deadline. Early wins build momentum and confidence.
How you work together
Spell out communication norms, response-time expectations, your check-in schedule, and what they can decide on their own versus run by you. Clear expectations prevent most early friction.
A point of contact
Make sure they know exactly who to ask when they are stuck. Nothing stalls a new hire faster than not knowing where to turn. A clear answer keeps the work moving.