How do you learn and update your skills on project management tools?

When looking at a project management tool don’t just look at what the size of the team is now, what happens when the team grows. Looking at all pricing features to see what happens when you jump a tier can make all the difference. Airtable is a brilliant piece of software that can be used for project management and customisable to suit your needs and teams needs. It has a great Free offering with built in automation. Airtable does miss some features that Asana delivers - Asana offers a summary of what is going on in all your projects and what is due for completion on one screen.

Asana is awesome but another one I have heard a lot of good news about is Notion. Making the most of free trials or versions means you can test out what works best for you

Choosing the right project management tools is crucial for virtual assistants to streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Tools like Asana, Trello, Basecamp, and ClickUp offer varying features tailored to different needs. It’s essential to evaluate the size and complexity of your projects, collaboration requirements, and budget constraints. Pay attention to security aspects to protect client information, and assess the user-friendliness and integration capabilities of each option. Utilizing online reviews and taking advantage of free trials can provide valuable insights, ensuring you make an informed decision that optimally supports your virtual assistance practice and client satisfaction.

Not only are there countless YouTube videos you can watch to learn make sure to follow the software social media accounts. There is a huge community behind brilliant software that openly share their knowledge and usage online.

I’ll usually research the project management tools that are mostly being used then sign up for that tool. In familiarizing myself with that tool, I try to read various articles and watch YouTube videos that would teach me how to use that tool. By the time, I am to land a client, I am verse with that tool.

Most Project management tools are complex which can be frightening. I focus on key features and master them. With project management tools, It is important to start small, then build your knowledge by application and practice.

Learning the basics of your chosen project management tools is fundamental to maximizing their potential in your virtual assistance practice. Start by familiarizing yourself with the interface, menus, and settings to navigate seamlessly. Utilize tutorials, guides, and webinars to gain deeper insights and best practices from experts. Engaging with other users and seeking feedback can also enhance your understanding and foster community connections. Hands-on practice creating and managing tasks, customizing views, and using features like filters, templates, and tags will solidify your skills. Mastering these fundamentals not only boosts your productivity but also elevates the support you offer to your clients.

Delve deeper into the advanced features and functionalities offered by the tools. This could involve attending advanced training sessions, reading in-depth guides and documentation, or even seeking mentorship from experienced users. By continuously challenging yourself to learn more, you'll expand your capabilities and become more proficient in leveraging the tools effectively.

Once you have found a software that you like and works for you stick with it. It is easy to get distracted by new software and to learn many tools. If you learn the fundamentals and advanced usage of one tool you do find that the majority of the time your learning can be transferred to other software - it may just be called something different but have the same function.

To advance your skills on a tool you'll need extra resources. There are tons available on Youtube and I often run there for expert guidance and support.

Advancing your skills in project management tools is essential for staying competitive as a virtual assistant. Once you’ve mastered the basics, dive into more advanced features like workflow automation, report generation, and tool integration to streamline your processes. Familiarity with methodologies like Agile, Scrum, or Kanban can further enhance your efficiency and project delivery. Explore a wealth of online resources, including blogs, podcasts, courses, and books, to continuously expand your knowledge. By investing in these skills, you not only elevate your professional capabilities but also provide greater value to your clients, positioning yourself as an invaluable partner in their success.

A Virtual Assistant is a business owner, so whatever need you require to run your business can also be applied to your clients. Up-skilling and applying your knowledge to your business can enable you to offer the setup service to your clients. A lot of No-Code and LowCode software now offer webinars walk through and events to show and demo new features. Block time in your diary to watch these launches live or on the replay.

Don't feel like you have to use every single feature. It is important that you make the most of the tools so you can be more efficient but sometimes basic is best

As a Virtual Assistant, consider yourself a business owner. Be proud to show off your skills and let your network and clients know you can use these tools.

Personal development is a must in any industry and tech is now more than ever a required area for VA to focus on. Ensuring the right tools for your clients needs is a must. I have a client still using Trello as for them they find it easy to understand, others are on more complex Project Management software like Airtable and Asana.

The only way to master a skill is if you apply it. Look for ways to use these skills you have in solving challenges either faced by your clients or in your business.

A final note to this, before diving head-first into a sea of tutorials, webinars, and certifications, consider the ROI—Return On Investment—of your time and money spent on the skills. A wise approach begins with a thorough self-assessment and a clear understanding of your clients' needs. Are you versed in the software and tools that would truly make a difference to them? Prioritise your learning to align closely with both current demands and future opportunities. That way, every hour and penny spent becomes a strategic investment, not just an item checked off a to-do list.

Keep up with industry trends and best practices in project management while improving your technical skills. Keep abreast of emerging technologies, methodologies, and tools that can further enhance your project management capabilities. Engage with professional networks, attend industry events, and participate in online communities to exchange insights and learn from others' experiences. By actively seeking out learning opportunities and staying connected with industry peers, you'll position yourself as a forward-thinking and adaptable project manager.

Stay ahead on project management tools by diving into online tutorials and webinars. Engage with user communities—Reddit and LinkedIn groups offer valuable insights. Set aside dedicated time for hands-on practice, experimenting with new features. Don't forget to explore vendor-provided resources like blogs and knowledge bases. Embrace continuous learning—it's the secret sauce to mastering these tools!