# Tools for Tracking Productivity with Virtual Assistants
In today’s fast-paced business world, it’s easy to wind up buried under a seemingly insurmountable pile of tasks. For the independent insurance agents out there, this feeling is all too familiar. From client meetings, policy updates, claim settlements, the list goes on and on. These constant demands can make one’s work-life balance teeter on a thin edge. Enter the game-changer: **Virtual Assistants** (VAs). These global workforce stars offer an affordable, flexible, and highly effective approach to managing your burgeoning task list. But how does one track the productivity of these remote helpers? Good question! This blog brings you on a journey through the key tools for tracking productivity with Virtual Assistants. Interested to know more? Keep reading!
## The Importance of Tracking VA Productivity
Why should we bother tracking the productivity of our VAs, especially when we’ve entrusted them with certain responsibilities? The answer can be seen in two key areas. First, it helps in benchmarking the performance of the VA against the expected output. Secondly, it aids you, the employer, in understanding where training or additional resources may be necessary. According to research conducted by Stanford University, remote workers are proven to be more productive than office workers. However, to keep this productivity consistently high, regular tracking and feedback are critical.
## Essential Tools for Tracking Productivity
When it comes to managing VAs, manual tracking won’t cut the mustard. In our highly digitalized era, leveraging technology to manage remote employees effectively is a need, not a choice. Here are our top picks for remote worker management software to track productivity with precision.
### AVA
Developed by Agency VA, **AVA** is built with the needs of independent insurance agents in mind. AVA offers users a clear, real-time view of their workforce’s productivity, regardless of their location. AVA blends the precision of project management software with the ease of communication tools. This two pronged approach ensures remote teams remain consistently integrated and driven towards their goals.
AVA also provides objective metrics such as task completion times, number of tasks, and quantifiable output, allowing you to measure productivity precisely. Having detailed analytics at your fingertips puts you in control, making you proactive rather than just reactive.
### Time Doctor
Next up is **Time Doctor**. Equipped with features like work time tracking, screen monitoring, and payroll integration it is a comprehensive productivity tracking tool. Perfectly suited for remote teams, Time Doctor not only measures productivity, it even provides data on potential distractions.
## Tips for Effective Remote Worker Management
Aside from the robust tools we’ve covered, implementing effective remote worker management strategies are a necessity. Effective communication, regular check-ins, and clarity on task requirements contribute to fostering a successful remote work environment.
For an effective communication, Harvard Business Review suggests that managers should not wait for responses from remote employees, but should rather be proactive and reach out to them frequently.
Moreover, providing timely feedback and appreciation can go a long way in keeping VA engaged and motivated. Remember, your VA is not a mind reader, setting clear expectations regarding work output and working hours can do wonders for productivity.
## Leverage Global Workforce Staffing
A prime example is **Agency VA**, offering expert virtual assistant staffing services. Agency VA takes off the burden of recruiting, training, and managing VAs. Their team of professional VAs dedication is primarily towards supporting independent insurance agents globally. With a tailored approach to every client, Agency VA thrives on making businesses more productive and efficient.
## Conclusion
In conclusion, embracing technology and proper management strategies can make tracking VA productivity seamless and accurate. Tools like AVA and Time Doctor, coupled with effective remote worker management techniques, can help you get the best from your VA team. To learn more about how to incorporate these practices into your business, or to understand the benefits of employing VAs, don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting with our team. We’ll be thrilled to help you navigate through it.
## References
1. Bloom, N., Liang, J., Roberts, J., & Ying, Z. J. (2014). Does Working from Home Work? Evidence from a Chinese Experiment. Stanford University: https://nbloom.people.stanford.edu/sites/g/files/sbiybj4746/f/wfh.pdf
2. Ferrazzi, K. (2014). Managing Remote Workers: How One Company Made It Work. Harvard Business Review: https://hbr.org/2014/01/managing-remote-workers-how-one-company-made-it-work
*Author’s Note: The above article is intended for informational purposes. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reliability, Agency VA encourages readers to consult directly with a qualified professional for any specific questions or issues*.