Hiring a virtual assistant (VA) can save you time, reduce costs, and help grow your business. Here’s what you need to know:
Steps to Hire a VA:
Key Stats:
Hiring a VA isn’t just about saving money - it’s about freeing up time to focus on growth and achieving better work-life balance.
Before bringing a virtual assistant (VA) on board, it’s important to figure out exactly what you want them to handle. This step helps you identify the tasks that are eating up your time and pulling your attention away from growing your business.
One practical way to do this is by dividing your tasks into three categories: things only you can do, things others can do better, and things that don’t need to be done at all [2]. This exercise makes it easier to spot tasks that are perfect for delegation.
Spend a week tracking how you use your time. This will help you uncover repetitive tasks that eat into your day. For instance, the average worker spends 28% of their week reading and replying to emails [3]. Add tasks like scheduling meetings, data entry, and answering customer service queries, and it’s clear there’s plenty of room to hand off some of this work.
Here are some common tasks that are great candidates for delegation:
Business owners often underestimate how much time they spend working. On average, they work 18% more than they think they should [3], with 66% clocking in between 40–60 hours per week [3]. Delegating these tasks can free up a significant chunk of that time.
Some tasks are better left to experts who can handle them faster and more effectively. Hiring a specialist VA for these jobs can boost efficiency by 37% and cut operating costs by up to 25% [5], largely because specialists need less training and oversight.
Consider delegating tasks such as:
For example, in Q2 2023, "GreenThumb Gardening", a small e-commerce business, saw a 40% increase in website traffic and a 25% rise in online sales after hiring a VA specializing in SEO and content marketing. The VA handled keyword research, optimized product descriptions, and created gardening-related blog posts, which improved the company’s search rankings and attracted more organic traffic [4].
Time zones can play a big role in how well your partnership with a VA works. If you need real-time collaboration, look for someone in a similar time zone. On the other hand, if the tasks don’t require immediate responses, hiring a VA in a different time zone can help you extend your business hours.
Strong communication is key. Make sure your VA has excellent English skills, especially for tasks involving customer interactions or detailed instructions. Familiarity with U.S. business practices, including common work hours and social norms, can also make collaboration smoother.
Once you’ve identified the tasks to delegate, you can create a clear and detailed job description to find the right VA for your needs.
Once you've identified the tasks you want to delegate, the next step is crafting a detailed job description. A well-written job description does more than just attract candidates - it ensures you're reaching the right people. By being specific, you’ll not only draw in qualified applicants but also discourage those who might not be a good match.
Your job description should cover key elements like the job title, a brief summary, detailed responsibilities, required skills, preferred experience, salary range, work schedule, and application instructions. Each of these components plays a role in helping you find the ideal virtual assistant.
Start with an accurate and specific job title. Instead of something broad like "Virtual Assistant", opt for titles such as "Social Media Virtual Assistant" or "Executive Administrative Assistant." This helps your posting stand out in searches and makes your needs clear from the start.
Follow up with a concise job summary and a clear list of daily tasks. Be direct about what the role entails. For example, you might include responsibilities like organizing schedules, setting reminders, coordinating meetings, managing emails, responding to customer inquiries, or maintaining correspondence. If applicable, tasks like handling customer service issues or creating reports should also be included.
Define whether the role involves ongoing projects or daily tasks. Be specific about goals, such as processing a certain number of documents per day, maintaining accuracy in expense reports, or responding to messages within a set timeframe. Additionally, outline expectations for communication frequency, preferred tools (e.g., email, Slack), and reporting formats.
Clearly list the skills and qualifications needed for the job. Match these to the tasks you’ve outlined. For instance, if the role involves social media management, specify experience with platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook. For customer-facing roles, highlight the importance of strong written communication skills.
Mention any tools or software the candidate should be familiar with, such as project management systems or CRM platforms. If language proficiency is crucial, define whether native-level English or business-level fluency is required.
To make your posting more effective, include preferred qualifications. This could mean prior experience in similar jobs, industry-specific knowledge, or certifications that would enhance their ability to meet your needs. Also, include a salary range to set clear expectations and attract candidates who fit within your budget. Research market rates to ensure your offer is competitive.
Simplify the application process to quickly identify the best candidates. Provide clear instructions on what applicants need to submit, such as a resume, cover letter, or work samples. You might also include a few specific questions or a short test task to evaluate their skills.
Set clear guidelines about work schedules, especially if you need support during specific hours, like U.S. business hours. If location or time zone compatibility is important, make this explicit.
Lastly, highlight any perks or benefits you offer, like flexible hours, learning opportunities, or performance bonuses. These details can make your position more appealing to top talent.
Wrap up with clear instructions on how to apply, contact details, and an application deadline. Let candidates know when they can expect a response, which helps set the tone for a professional and organized hiring process.
Now that you’ve crafted a clear job description, it’s time to identify the right candidates. This step involves knowing where to search for talent and developing a solid process for reviewing applications and conducting interviews.
Choosing the right platform can simplify your hiring process. Each option comes with its own benefits, levels of support, and pricing, all of which can play a big role in your success as a first-time virtual assistant employer.
When selecting a platform, consider factors like the quality of pre-screening, communication support, pricing transparency, and whether a trial period is offered. After narrowing down your options, focus on evaluating resumes for tangible results.
When reviewing resumes, focus on measurable accomplishments that demonstrate a candidate’s ability to make an impact. Look for specific results rather than generic job descriptions.
Examples of strong achievements include:
Pay attention to presentation as well. Resumes with typos or formatting issues can signal a lack of attention to detail, a critical skill for virtual assistants.
After shortlisting candidates, use structured interviews to identify the best fit for your needs. A well-organized interview process allows you to assess their experience, skills, and ability to thrive in a remote working environment.
Start with general questions about their background. Ask about their previous virtual assistant roles, the types of organizations they’ve supported, and their reasons for choosing remote work. These questions can help you gauge their experience and dedication.
Next, dive into specifics. Test their software skills, task management abilities, and adaptability. Ask for examples of challenging projects they’ve handled and how they navigated unexpected problems. This will give you insight into their problem-solving abilities and initiative.
Communication skills are essential for remote work, so pay close attention to how clearly they explain their ideas, ask clarifying questions, and respond to yours. Strong candidates will show genuine interest in your business and relate their past experiences to your needs.
Scenario-based questions are also useful for evaluating problem-solving skills. For example, ask, “How would you prioritize tasks when everything feels urgent?” or “What would you do if you missed a deadline?” Their answers can reveal how they handle pressure and setbacks.
Finally, explore how well they might fit with your business. Discuss their work style, communication preferences, and the types of projects they enjoy most. Ask how they approach learning a client’s preferences and integrating into a team. Follow-up questions can also help uncover deeper insights. For instance, when a candidate mentions an achievement, ask them to explain the process and challenges they faced to better understand their capabilities.
After hiring your virtual assistant (VA), the next step is to ensure they have the tools, processes, and guidance needed to thrive. The first 90 days are critical for building a strong working relationship and setting the stage for long-term success. With effective onboarding, access to the right tools, and clear workflows, your VA can become an essential part of your team.
Did you know that 73% of business owners provide access to tools without setting up proper systems[6]? Avoid this pitfall by creating organized workflows that help your VA work efficiently.
Start by equipping your VA with essential tools for communication, scheduling, project management, and time tracking. Popular options include:
To keep everything secure, use password managers and centralized document storage. For example, tools like Calendly can simplify scheduling, while an organized Gmail system can reduce inbox clutter. One real estate broker shared:
"My VA manages my inbox using our triage system. Last month, I personally handled only 42 emails out of 1,400+ received. The best productivity tools for virtual assistants gave me back my mornings." – Real Estate Broker[6]
Documenting processes is equally important. Tools like Loom and templates can help you create step-by-step guides for your VA, ensuring they can handle even complex tasks accurately. Studies show that clear visual processes improve task accuracy by 91%[6]. By laying out detailed, documented procedures, you’ll make onboarding smoother and daily operations more efficient.
Next, establish clear communication rules to keep everything running smoothly.
Strong communication is the backbone of any remote working relationship[7]. Make sure you define your communication channels from the start. For instance:
Set clear expectations for response times - immediate replies for urgent matters and within 24 hours for routine tasks.
Establish a structured weekly workflow to keep everyone on the same page. This might include:
If you’re working across time zones, tools like World Time Buddy can help coordinate overlapping hours.
During the first 90 days, schedule weekly or bi-weekly meetings to review progress, address concerns, and provide feedback. Document standard operating procedures, quality benchmarks, and approval processes to ensure consistency. Use straightforward language to reduce misunderstandings and encourage open communication.
Finally, keep an eye on performance and adapt processes as needed.
Setting clear goals can increase the likelihood of success by 42%[9]. From day one, outline specific tasks, deadlines, and quality expectations, and establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your business objectives.
Focus on tracking progress rather than micromanaging. Use regular check-ins to review metrics and provide feedback. For added accountability, ask your VA to submit daily reports detailing completed tasks, time spent, and any challenges they encountered. Time-tracking tools can also give you real-time insights into their workflow.
Recognize and reward good performance. Address issues promptly, but also celebrate achievements and milestones. As your VA grows more confident, gradually expand their responsibilities. For example, if they excel at managing emails, you might assign them additional administrative tasks. Offering training and development opportunities not only helps them improve but also encourages long-term commitment.
"The key to a successful virtual assistant relationship is creating a clear, structured onboarding process that sets them both up for success from day one."[8]
Bringing a virtual assistant (VA) on board is a game-changer when it comes to reclaiming your time and driving business growth. By following four simple steps - delegating tasks, crafting a clear job description, screening candidates, and setting your VA up for success - you can streamline operations and focus on the bigger picture. These steps aren't just about immediate relief; they lay the groundwork for long-term efficiency and growth.
Think about this: American workers spend about 38% of their time on administrative tasks that don’t require their expertise[1]. Executives, on average, dedicate 16 hours a week to these same tasks[1]. That’s a lot of time that could be better spent on strategic planning, building relationships, or innovating. Handing off these responsibilities to a skilled VA not only frees up your schedule but also saves money - businesses can cut costs by over 70% when hiring VAs due to lower overhead costs[10]. Even more impressive, companies utilizing VAs have reported a 50% productivity boost[12].
Here’s a real-world example: A tattoo studio in California saw earnings jump by 61% in just one year, going from $130,000 to $210,000 after hiring a VA to manage emails, scheduling, customer tracking, and review requests[11]. That’s not just growth - it’s transformation.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Hiring a VA gives you access to specialized skills - whether it’s digital marketing or customer support - without the long-term commitment of a full-time hire. Plus, 60% of business owners report a better work-life balance after bringing a VA on board[13], which can lead to sharper decision-making and sustained success.
The key to making this work? Be strategic. The main reasons business owners turn to VAs are to save time (67%), offload daily operations (53%), and boost productivity (44%)[10]. By clearly identifying your needs, establishing strong communication, and providing the right support, you can create a partnership that evolves with your business.
It’s time to take action. Pinpoint those repetitive, time-draining tasks holding you back. By investing in efficiency now, you’re setting the stage for growth that lasts.
To begin, pinpoint tasks that eat up your time but don't necessarily need your unique skills. These could include things like managing your inbox, scheduling meetings, entering data, or handling social media posts. The goal is to delegate these repetitive or administrative duties, giving you more room to focus on work that truly demands your expertise.
To hire a dependable virtual assistant in the US, start by exploring platforms that connect businesses with skilled professionals. Some popular choices include Upwork, Fiverr, and specialized services like Zirtual and Boldly, which focus on providing experienced virtual assistants.
Before selecting a platform or service, think about your specific needs. What tasks do you want to delegate? What’s your budget? Do you need someone with a particular skill set? Once you have clarity, craft a detailed job description to attract candidates who fit your requirements. Take time to evaluate applicants through interviews and test tasks to ensure they meet your expectations and work style.
With a well-thought-out process, you can find a virtual assistant who will help lighten your workload and improve your efficiency.
To ensure smooth communication and maintain productivity with a virtual assistant working in a different time zone, start by establishing overlapping work hours whenever possible. Tools like time zone converters can make scheduling easier, and setting specific times for check-ins or updates helps keep everyone on the same page. Clearly define expectations for availability and response times to avoid confusion.
When real-time interaction isn’t feasible, rely on asynchronous communication methods like email or project management platforms to keep tasks moving forward. Recording meetings or sharing detailed notes can also help your assistant stay informed. A shared calendar is another great way to stay updated on deadlines, priorities, and ongoing progress. With careful planning, you can create an efficient and productive workflow, no matter the time zone.
Hiring a virtual assistant (VA) can save you time, reduce costs, and help grow your business. Here’s what you need to know:
Steps to Hire a VA:
Key Stats:
Hiring a VA isn’t just about saving money - it’s about freeing up time to focus on growth and achieving better work-life balance.
Before bringing a virtual assistant (VA) on board, it’s important to figure out exactly what you want them to handle. This step helps you identify the tasks that are eating up your time and pulling your attention away from growing your business.
One practical way to do this is by dividing your tasks into three categories: things only you can do, things others can do better, and things that don’t need to be done at all [2]. This exercise makes it easier to spot tasks that are perfect for delegation.
Spend a week tracking how you use your time. This will help you uncover repetitive tasks that eat into your day. For instance, the average worker spends 28% of their week reading and replying to emails [3]. Add tasks like scheduling meetings, data entry, and answering customer service queries, and it’s clear there’s plenty of room to hand off some of this work.
Here are some common tasks that are great candidates for delegation:
Business owners often underestimate how much time they spend working. On average, they work 18% more than they think they should [3], with 66% clocking in between 40–60 hours per week [3]. Delegating these tasks can free up a significant chunk of that time.
Some tasks are better left to experts who can handle them faster and more effectively. Hiring a specialist VA for these jobs can boost efficiency by 37% and cut operating costs by up to 25% [5], largely because specialists need less training and oversight.
Consider delegating tasks such as:
For example, in Q2 2023, "GreenThumb Gardening", a small e-commerce business, saw a 40% increase in website traffic and a 25% rise in online sales after hiring a VA specializing in SEO and content marketing. The VA handled keyword research, optimized product descriptions, and created gardening-related blog posts, which improved the company’s search rankings and attracted more organic traffic [4].
Time zones can play a big role in how well your partnership with a VA works. If you need real-time collaboration, look for someone in a similar time zone. On the other hand, if the tasks don’t require immediate responses, hiring a VA in a different time zone can help you extend your business hours.
Strong communication is key. Make sure your VA has excellent English skills, especially for tasks involving customer interactions or detailed instructions. Familiarity with U.S. business practices, including common work hours and social norms, can also make collaboration smoother.
Once you’ve identified the tasks to delegate, you can create a clear and detailed job description to find the right VA for your needs.
Once you've identified the tasks you want to delegate, the next step is crafting a detailed job description. A well-written job description does more than just attract candidates - it ensures you're reaching the right people. By being specific, you’ll not only draw in qualified applicants but also discourage those who might not be a good match.
Your job description should cover key elements like the job title, a brief summary, detailed responsibilities, required skills, preferred experience, salary range, work schedule, and application instructions. Each of these components plays a role in helping you find the ideal virtual assistant.
Start with an accurate and specific job title. Instead of something broad like "Virtual Assistant", opt for titles such as "Social Media Virtual Assistant" or "Executive Administrative Assistant." This helps your posting stand out in searches and makes your needs clear from the start.
Follow up with a concise job summary and a clear list of daily tasks. Be direct about what the role entails. For example, you might include responsibilities like organizing schedules, setting reminders, coordinating meetings, managing emails, responding to customer inquiries, or maintaining correspondence. If applicable, tasks like handling customer service issues or creating reports should also be included.
Define whether the role involves ongoing projects or daily tasks. Be specific about goals, such as processing a certain number of documents per day, maintaining accuracy in expense reports, or responding to messages within a set timeframe. Additionally, outline expectations for communication frequency, preferred tools (e.g., email, Slack), and reporting formats.
Clearly list the skills and qualifications needed for the job. Match these to the tasks you’ve outlined. For instance, if the role involves social media management, specify experience with platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook. For customer-facing roles, highlight the importance of strong written communication skills.
Mention any tools or software the candidate should be familiar with, such as project management systems or CRM platforms. If language proficiency is crucial, define whether native-level English or business-level fluency is required.
To make your posting more effective, include preferred qualifications. This could mean prior experience in similar jobs, industry-specific knowledge, or certifications that would enhance their ability to meet your needs. Also, include a salary range to set clear expectations and attract candidates who fit within your budget. Research market rates to ensure your offer is competitive.
Simplify the application process to quickly identify the best candidates. Provide clear instructions on what applicants need to submit, such as a resume, cover letter, or work samples. You might also include a few specific questions or a short test task to evaluate their skills.
Set clear guidelines about work schedules, especially if you need support during specific hours, like U.S. business hours. If location or time zone compatibility is important, make this explicit.
Lastly, highlight any perks or benefits you offer, like flexible hours, learning opportunities, or performance bonuses. These details can make your position more appealing to top talent.
Wrap up with clear instructions on how to apply, contact details, and an application deadline. Let candidates know when they can expect a response, which helps set the tone for a professional and organized hiring process.
Now that you’ve crafted a clear job description, it’s time to identify the right candidates. This step involves knowing where to search for talent and developing a solid process for reviewing applications and conducting interviews.
Choosing the right platform can simplify your hiring process. Each option comes with its own benefits, levels of support, and pricing, all of which can play a big role in your success as a first-time virtual assistant employer.
When selecting a platform, consider factors like the quality of pre-screening, communication support, pricing transparency, and whether a trial period is offered. After narrowing down your options, focus on evaluating resumes for tangible results.
When reviewing resumes, focus on measurable accomplishments that demonstrate a candidate’s ability to make an impact. Look for specific results rather than generic job descriptions.
Examples of strong achievements include:
Pay attention to presentation as well. Resumes with typos or formatting issues can signal a lack of attention to detail, a critical skill for virtual assistants.
After shortlisting candidates, use structured interviews to identify the best fit for your needs. A well-organized interview process allows you to assess their experience, skills, and ability to thrive in a remote working environment.
Start with general questions about their background. Ask about their previous virtual assistant roles, the types of organizations they’ve supported, and their reasons for choosing remote work. These questions can help you gauge their experience and dedication.
Next, dive into specifics. Test their software skills, task management abilities, and adaptability. Ask for examples of challenging projects they’ve handled and how they navigated unexpected problems. This will give you insight into their problem-solving abilities and initiative.
Communication skills are essential for remote work, so pay close attention to how clearly they explain their ideas, ask clarifying questions, and respond to yours. Strong candidates will show genuine interest in your business and relate their past experiences to your needs.
Scenario-based questions are also useful for evaluating problem-solving skills. For example, ask, “How would you prioritize tasks when everything feels urgent?” or “What would you do if you missed a deadline?” Their answers can reveal how they handle pressure and setbacks.
Finally, explore how well they might fit with your business. Discuss their work style, communication preferences, and the types of projects they enjoy most. Ask how they approach learning a client’s preferences and integrating into a team. Follow-up questions can also help uncover deeper insights. For instance, when a candidate mentions an achievement, ask them to explain the process and challenges they faced to better understand their capabilities.
After hiring your virtual assistant (VA), the next step is to ensure they have the tools, processes, and guidance needed to thrive. The first 90 days are critical for building a strong working relationship and setting the stage for long-term success. With effective onboarding, access to the right tools, and clear workflows, your VA can become an essential part of your team.
Did you know that 73% of business owners provide access to tools without setting up proper systems[6]? Avoid this pitfall by creating organized workflows that help your VA work efficiently.
Start by equipping your VA with essential tools for communication, scheduling, project management, and time tracking. Popular options include:
To keep everything secure, use password managers and centralized document storage. For example, tools like Calendly can simplify scheduling, while an organized Gmail system can reduce inbox clutter. One real estate broker shared:
"My VA manages my inbox using our triage system. Last month, I personally handled only 42 emails out of 1,400+ received. The best productivity tools for virtual assistants gave me back my mornings." – Real Estate Broker[6]
Documenting processes is equally important. Tools like Loom and templates can help you create step-by-step guides for your VA, ensuring they can handle even complex tasks accurately. Studies show that clear visual processes improve task accuracy by 91%[6]. By laying out detailed, documented procedures, you’ll make onboarding smoother and daily operations more efficient.
Next, establish clear communication rules to keep everything running smoothly.
Strong communication is the backbone of any remote working relationship[7]. Make sure you define your communication channels from the start. For instance:
Set clear expectations for response times - immediate replies for urgent matters and within 24 hours for routine tasks.
Establish a structured weekly workflow to keep everyone on the same page. This might include:
If you’re working across time zones, tools like World Time Buddy can help coordinate overlapping hours.
During the first 90 days, schedule weekly or bi-weekly meetings to review progress, address concerns, and provide feedback. Document standard operating procedures, quality benchmarks, and approval processes to ensure consistency. Use straightforward language to reduce misunderstandings and encourage open communication.
Finally, keep an eye on performance and adapt processes as needed.
Setting clear goals can increase the likelihood of success by 42%[9]. From day one, outline specific tasks, deadlines, and quality expectations, and establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your business objectives.
Focus on tracking progress rather than micromanaging. Use regular check-ins to review metrics and provide feedback. For added accountability, ask your VA to submit daily reports detailing completed tasks, time spent, and any challenges they encountered. Time-tracking tools can also give you real-time insights into their workflow.
Recognize and reward good performance. Address issues promptly, but also celebrate achievements and milestones. As your VA grows more confident, gradually expand their responsibilities. For example, if they excel at managing emails, you might assign them additional administrative tasks. Offering training and development opportunities not only helps them improve but also encourages long-term commitment.
"The key to a successful virtual assistant relationship is creating a clear, structured onboarding process that sets them both up for success from day one."[8]
Bringing a virtual assistant (VA) on board is a game-changer when it comes to reclaiming your time and driving business growth. By following four simple steps - delegating tasks, crafting a clear job description, screening candidates, and setting your VA up for success - you can streamline operations and focus on the bigger picture. These steps aren't just about immediate relief; they lay the groundwork for long-term efficiency and growth.
Think about this: American workers spend about 38% of their time on administrative tasks that don’t require their expertise[1]. Executives, on average, dedicate 16 hours a week to these same tasks[1]. That’s a lot of time that could be better spent on strategic planning, building relationships, or innovating. Handing off these responsibilities to a skilled VA not only frees up your schedule but also saves money - businesses can cut costs by over 70% when hiring VAs due to lower overhead costs[10]. Even more impressive, companies utilizing VAs have reported a 50% productivity boost[12].
Here’s a real-world example: A tattoo studio in California saw earnings jump by 61% in just one year, going from $130,000 to $210,000 after hiring a VA to manage emails, scheduling, customer tracking, and review requests[11]. That’s not just growth - it’s transformation.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Hiring a VA gives you access to specialized skills - whether it’s digital marketing or customer support - without the long-term commitment of a full-time hire. Plus, 60% of business owners report a better work-life balance after bringing a VA on board[13], which can lead to sharper decision-making and sustained success.
The key to making this work? Be strategic. The main reasons business owners turn to VAs are to save time (67%), offload daily operations (53%), and boost productivity (44%)[10]. By clearly identifying your needs, establishing strong communication, and providing the right support, you can create a partnership that evolves with your business.
It’s time to take action. Pinpoint those repetitive, time-draining tasks holding you back. By investing in efficiency now, you’re setting the stage for growth that lasts.
To begin, pinpoint tasks that eat up your time but don't necessarily need your unique skills. These could include things like managing your inbox, scheduling meetings, entering data, or handling social media posts. The goal is to delegate these repetitive or administrative duties, giving you more room to focus on work that truly demands your expertise.
To hire a dependable virtual assistant in the US, start by exploring platforms that connect businesses with skilled professionals. Some popular choices include Upwork, Fiverr, and specialized services like Zirtual and Boldly, which focus on providing experienced virtual assistants.
Before selecting a platform or service, think about your specific needs. What tasks do you want to delegate? What’s your budget? Do you need someone with a particular skill set? Once you have clarity, craft a detailed job description to attract candidates who fit your requirements. Take time to evaluate applicants through interviews and test tasks to ensure they meet your expectations and work style.
With a well-thought-out process, you can find a virtual assistant who will help lighten your workload and improve your efficiency.
To ensure smooth communication and maintain productivity with a virtual assistant working in a different time zone, start by establishing overlapping work hours whenever possible. Tools like time zone converters can make scheduling easier, and setting specific times for check-ins or updates helps keep everyone on the same page. Clearly define expectations for availability and response times to avoid confusion.
When real-time interaction isn’t feasible, rely on asynchronous communication methods like email or project management platforms to keep tasks moving forward. Recording meetings or sharing detailed notes can also help your assistant stay informed. A shared calendar is another great way to stay updated on deadlines, priorities, and ongoing progress. With careful planning, you can create an efficient and productive workflow, no matter the time zone.