Managing remote employees, particularly virtual assistants (VAs), can be a challenge for e-commerce businesses. In this article, we will discuss the key strategies for effectively managing remote teams and using VAs to support your business. From establishing clear communication channels to setting clear expectations and goals, we will provide practical tips on how to make the most of your remote workforce.

As the world becomes increasingly digital and interconnected, many businesses are turning to remote work as a way to cut costs, increase efficiency, and attract top talent. While remote work has many benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to managing remote employees. In this article, we will discuss some common mistakes that e-commerce businesses make when using virtual assistants (VAs) and how to avoid them.

As the founder and assistant of virtual assistant academy, VAA Philippines, Gilad knows firsthand the challenges of managing remote employees, particularly virtual assistants (VAs) in the e-commerce industry. When he started his Amazon business in 2015, he grew quickly and recruited his first two VAs in the Philippines. However, things did not go as smoothly as he had hoped.
Time Stamps
[02:50:98] Introduction
[04:36:29] Thinking What people Say About Themselves in CV/Resume is Important
[07:39:48] How To Find Motivated People?
[11:02:22] The Next Stop of the Process
[18:59:60] The Interview Process
[24:21:40] Wrap Up






Mistakes When Handling Your Virtual Assistants
One of the main mistakes Gilad made was assuming that what people wrote about themselves in their CVs or resumes was important. He overweighted resumes that listed a lot of experience, without taking into consideration how good the person could potentially become. When he put out his first recruitment ad, he received 300 applications, all from people who claimed to have many years of experience and the ability to scale companies.

However, Gilad learned the hard way that this was not always the case. He found one VA who seemed like the perfect fit and spent a month training them, only for them to stop replying to his messages. This experience taught Gilad the importance of testing for commitment, motivation, and speed of learning before hiring VAs. He also learned the value of properly evaluating English skills.
Recruiting Virtual Assistants at VAA
Now, at VAA, Gilad takes the time to properly filter candidates through a recruitment funnel. He tests their ability to analyze data, their commitment, and their motivation by giving them tasks that take time and effort to complete. This includes asking them to review an Amazon listing and recommend improvements based on negative customer reviews.

In addition to these mistakes, Gilad also learned the importance of understanding Filipino culture when managing remote employees in the Philippines. Filipinos are generally quieter and more loyal than Westerners, and they do not appreciate being pushed or told they have made mistakes. This can be catastrophic for the employer-employee relationship. Instead, Gilad recommends showing VAs that it is okay to make mistakes and encouraging them to make suggestions.
Handling Virtual Assistants at VAA
At VAA, Gilad connects sellers with a Filipino manager in addition to their VA to facilitate better communication and avoid misunderstandings. He also emphasizes the importance of being open about the business, its growth expectations, and the VA's role in the company. This helps to build a strong sense of belonging and connection, which can increase engagement and productivity.

Another important aspect of managing remote employees is understanding their work environment. Gilad recommends conducting live video interviews to check the connection and physical background, as well as being clear about expectations and tasks. He advises setting specific hours and procedures for communication,