How to Minimize Client Mistakes

When I first began work as a Virtual Assistant, I thought I should try to work as fast as possible. Sometimes I even cut corners because I was afraid that clients would get upset if my work took too long.

What I quickly learned, however, was that the last thing clients wanted to do was point out mistakes for me to correct. Even if the work took less time, mistakes meant I was taking more of theirs (and looking bad in the process).

So I slowed down and got serious about eliminating errors from my work.

Here’s what I suggest to minimize your mistakes:

• Review the entire project first. Make sure you understand what you’re trying to accomplish and that you have everything you need. Make sure there are no discrepancies in your instructions from the client.
• Start from the top. If your project has multiple steps, start at the beginning of the flow and work your way to the end. This will help make sure your work is complete and focused on the end result.
• Take detailed notes along the way. Sometimes, as you’re working, you’ll think of something you need to share with a client. Hours (or days) later, though, these things are easy to forget. So take detailed notes along the way, writing them in complete sentences so you know what they refer to later on.
• Review Your Work. Think about the end user of your work product and be thoughtful about each step. Review what needs to happen before the step and after the step. When you’re finished, review your work again.

While it might take more time the first time, your work will be more consistent and your clients much happier!

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A business workflow and productivity expert with 25 years of experience, RocketGirl Solutions Founder Belinda Wasser is hired by small businesses on a contract basis to act as their part-time, “business manager.”

In addition, she is the Founder of the VA Connection, a professional online community with the goal of educating and connecting independent virtual assistants around the world. Join her free online classroom here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thevaconnection/