How to Delegate Your First Task to a Virtual Assistant (In 5 Simple Steps)

Libby Roesner
Apr 28
3 min read

Delegating your first task might feel a little scary — but it’s one of the most powerful moves you can make to free up your time, your energy, and your creativity. It starts with one small step.

Feeling overwhelmed in your business?

If you're a rural or regional woman running a business, juggling family, land, and clients, you know that time is your most precious resource. Delegating just one task can free up hours and create the breathing room you need to focus on what you love most.

But where do you start?

Here at The Virtual Cooee, we believe delegating shouldn't feel overwhelming. In fact, it can be simple, empowering, and transformational. Here's exactly how to delegate your first task to a Virtual Assistant (VA) in 5 straightforward steps:

Step 1: Start Small 🌱

The first step is to pick just one task. You don't have to hand over your entire business overnight. Start with something that feels manageable but still gives you valuable time.

Examples:

Inbox clean-up
Booking client appointments
Formatting social media posts
Organising digital files

Cooee Tip: Choose a task that drains your energy but is easy for someone else to step into.

Step 2: Write a Quick How-To ✍️

Imagine explaining the task to a friend over coffee. Keep it light and simple.

Example of a mini-process:

Log into the inbox every morning.
Flag important emails.
Reply to appointment requests with available times.

Cooee Tip: If you prefer speaking to writing, record a quick video (using Loom or your phone) explaining the steps. (Have a look at creating a simple Standard Operating Procedure or SOP) if you'd like to create something more permanent and repeatable).

Step 3: Choose the Right VA 🤝

Not every VA is the right fit for every task. Choose someone who matches the nature of your work and your personal style.

Look for:

Strong organisational skills
Proactivity (someone who thinks one step ahead)
Friendly, clear communication

At The Virtual Cooee, our VAs are selected for their understanding of rural and regional business life, so you're already off to a great start!

Step 4: Start with a Test Project 🚀

Assign a small, low-risk task first. This builds trust and gives you both a chance to find your rhythm before diving into larger projects.

Example Test Project:

"Reply to five customer enquiries by Thursday and confirm bookings."

Small wins lead to bigger wins.

Step 5: Communicate & Celebrate 📢🎉

Successful delegation doesn't end once you hand over the task. Make sure you:

Check in early: See if your VA has questions.
Give feedback: Celebrate what was done well and guide improvements gently.
Celebrate the win: Acknowledge that you've officially started delegating — that's huge!

Delegating is a skill you build with practice. Every task you hand over gives you more space to grow, innovate, and enjoy your business.

Final Thoughts

Delegating doesn't just lighten your load — it transforms your business from the inside out.

At The Virtual Cooee, we make it easy for rural and regional women to find Virtual Assistants who "get it" — the lifestyle, the pace, the unique needs of living and working on the land.

Ready to reclaim your time and sanity? Start small. Start today. And remember: you don't have to do it all alone. 💜

Interested in finding your perfect VA match? [Visit The Virtual Cooee Hub here!]

Or download our free "Delegation Starter Checklist" here to make your first steps even easier!

— Libby and The Virtual Cooee Team

by Libby Roesner*

Dr Libby Roesner is a founder of The Virtual Cooee, an innovative platform designed to empower rural and regional women by connecting them with diverse business opportunities. Originally from Sydney, Libby's career path led her to Condobolin, a small town in the heart of rural NSW, where she embraced roles as diverse as an Agronomist, Soil Scientist, Landcare Coordinator, TAFE Teacher, and Farmer.

During a transformative sea change to Hervey Bay during the COVID pandemic, Libby discovered a way to use her diverse skills while travelling in a caravan as a Virtual Assistant, a role through which she supports rural businesses navigating modern challenges. Her journey, marked by courage, dedication, and a deep commitment to rural communities, fuels her vision for The Virtual Cooee. Libby is passionate about leveraging her rich background to foster opportunities that allow women to excel professionally, irrespective of their geographic constraints. Outside her professional life, Libby finds joy in her family and nature, as well as dancing, martial arts, gardening and drawing, reflecting her multifaceted life and commitment to her community.