Skills and Expertise
Consider the required skills.  Identifying the essential skills tailored to your business is paramount.  Assess your business needs and look for a virtual assistant with the specific skills required for the tasks at hand, whether it's administrative support, social media management, or specialised technical skills.  Specialised technical skills, if needed, warrant a candidate proficient in the relevant tools, ensuring task precision and efficiency.

Clarity and Responsiveness
Effective communication is crucial.  Ensure the virtual assistant is proficient in the language you operate in to avoid misunderstandings and errors.  Look for clear communication and responsiveness during the hiring process.  A virtual assistant who communicates well from the start is likely to maintain this throughout your working relationship. 

Technology Proficiency
Check if the virtual assistant is proficient in the tools and software relevant to your business. This includes project management tools, communication platforms, and any industry-specific software.  Adaptability to New Technology: Assess the virtual assistant's ability to adapt to new technologies.  A tech-savvy assistant can quickly learn and integrate new tools, contributing to increased efficiency. 

Budgeting for a Virtual Assistant
What tasks do you need help with? How much are you willing to spend?  Virtual assistants offer a wide range of services, so it's important to find one that fits your specific needs and budget.  Find the right fit for your business needs and work culture.  Take the time to speak to your VA to ensure a successful and productive working relationship.

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First, starting out in learning and understanding etiquette, I mistakenly gave a gift of a beautiful glass crystal clock to my Asian coach.  In horror, after reading her extremely kind email of thanks, she explained to me the cultural differences between what the Chinese thought of clocks and the superstition behind them.  What a cultural etiquette faux pas to make!

Cultural differences significantly impact communication and etiquette by values, and expectations in social interactions.  These variations can be subtle or more pronounced, influencing various aspects of communication, including verbal and nonverbal language, directness, and politeness norms.   So you are probably now asking what is cultural etiquette? or what is cultural protocol? or even this....what are the rules of cultural etiquette? and how do you follow cultural protocol?  Here are several pointers that can help when speaking to international counterparts at work or travelling on a holiday:

Communication Styles: Different cultures may have varying preferences for communication styles, such as directness versus indirectness.  Some cultures value explicit and straightforward communication, while others prioritise implicit or indirect expression.  

• Language Barriers: Language differences can hinder effective communication, requiring translation or relying on common languages like English. This can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations.
• Word Choice and Expressions: The meaning of words and phrases can vary across cultures. For instance, a phrase like "good job" might be considered encouraging in one culture but condescending in another.

Non-Verbal Cues: Body language, gestures, and facial expressions can convey different meanings in various cultures. What is considered acceptable or respectful in one culture may be interpreted differently in another, leading to potential misunderstandings. 

• Gestures and Body Language: Gestures, facial expressions, and body postures can convey different meanings in different cultures. For example, a thumbs-up gesture might signal approval in one culture but be offensive in another.
• Eye Contact: Eye contact practices vary widely. In some cultures, direct eye contact is considered respectful, while in others, it is seen as impolite or challenging
• Personal Space: The acceptable distance between individuals in conversations differs across cultures. In some cultures, people stand closer when interacting, while in others, they maintain a wider personal space.

Hierarchy and Authority: The perception of hierarchy and authority varies across cultures. In some cultures, there is a strict adherence to hierarchical structures, while others may adopt a more egalitarian approach. This influences how individuals express themselves and respond to authority figures.

• In the Arab peninsula, Southeast Asia, and China, the influence of hierarchy and authority is deeply ingrained, shaping social dynamics and interpersonal relationships. Respect for authority and hierarchical structures prevails in these regions.
• In Australia, New Zealand, and UK and the US, there is a notable emphasis on an egalitarian approach to hierarchy and authority. These cultures generally prioritise equality, diminishing rigid hierarchical structures in social and professional interactions.

​​Indian women traditionally shake hands with foreign women but not with men, although this practice may vary among educated and contemporary Indian women.  Western women can feel comfortable shaking hands with Indian women or Western-oriented Indian men, but they may want to avoid this gesture with traditional Indian men.  English is widely spoken in India, especially in urban areas and among the younger and educated populations. So, "Hello," "Hi, How Are You?" are also commonly used.
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Always consider the cultural context and the person you're speaking to when choosing a greeting. A sincere and respectful approach is usually well received.

Etiquette classes are instructional sessions designed to teach 'the how's" of protocol and manners in various settings. These classes cover a range of topics, including dining etiquette, table manners, communication skills, digital etiquette, professional conduct, business etiquette, and cultural awareness and special occasions etiquette

Participants learn how to navigate social situations with grace, demonstrate politeness, and present themselves confidently. Etiquette classes are often sought by individuals who wish to enhance their social skills, boost professionalism, or adapt to specific social norms in different contexts, such as business, formal events, or international interactions.

​Etiquette classes are typically taught by certified etiquette instructors who have extensive experience in the field.  The instructors use a variety of teaching methods, including presentations, discussions, role-playing, and hands-on activities.  Etiquette classes can be found online, in person, or through private instruction.  Trained instructors typically conduct these classes, providing practical guidance and insights to help individuals navigate real-life scenarios with poise and confidence...

​Embark on a journey and learn the how's and why of etiquette and enrol in our etiquette classes today!  Limited bookings available.  Register now!  Contact us today and book in a 15-minute concierge phone or zoom call.  Embrace etiquette, elevate your life.