Anthony “Tony” G. keeps three priorities in mind each day: his family, his client’s needs, and excellence in his work. This mindful approach to life and career earned the HireSmart virtual employee (VE) the company’s 2024 “Core Value Mindfulness Award,” his second consecutive year receiving core value recognition.

“Tony took on every new job with a smile on his face!” his client said. “He has not only done his job this year, but he has improved upon almost all of the processes that we had in place. He works hard and takes ownership of everything that he does.”

The award follows Tony’s 2023 “Core Value Availability Award,” making him a back-to-back honoree at HireSmart’s annual Christmas celebration. The recognition comes after a year of significant growth for Tony, both professionally and personally.

A Mindful Approach to New Challenges

In January 2024, Tony’s client recognized his potential and promoted him from Administrative Assistant to Operations Assistant, a role requiring direct reporting to the Operations Director.

Anne Lackey’s Company Offers a Unique Virtual Solution for Staffing Issues

“His email communication to the management companies and the board members is always spot on,” his client said. “We have had board members worried about how we would handle a Transition In. Tony has had to join phone and teams calls with board members – something never done with our VEs before. Tony answered questions correctly and confidently. If there was something he didn’t know, he ensured them he would get the answer and follow up.”

Tony carefully considers each task, whether communicating with board members or improving existing processes. His mindful attention to detail helps establish trust and reliability with clients from their first interaction.

“If there is ever a board or another management company that isn’t wanting to go by the rules, he will come to me on how we can put them on the correct path of what they are trying to accomplish,” his supervisor noted.

Family First, Always Present

Tony’s mindfulness extends beyond his professional life to his role as a father to his now 2-year-old son, Noah. Tony treasures the opportunity his virtual position provides to be present for his family while advancing his career.

This past year, Tony’s dedication to his work allowed him to achieve a significant personal milestone – moving his family into their own home after previously living with in-laws. The stability provided by his position with HireSmart helped make this dream possible.

Are You Prepared to Handle a Staffing Crisis?

“It really means a lot,” Tony said of being home with his family. “I have been in the corporate world before, around 11 years, and it feels sad during celebrations, birthdays – the special occasions that I’m expected to be with my family, but I was not around. I’m really happy now, especially now that I have a son. He’s growing up. I want to witness all his milestones.”

The Value of Agency Support

Tony’s success story exemplifies the mutual benefits created when companies partner with HireSmart Virtual Employees. The agency’s commitment to excellence and support of its VEs translates directly into value for clients.

“The main reason why I loved this agency specifically is because of the security,” Tony said. He appreciates knowing HireSmart will work to place him with another client if needed, though his excellent performance makes that unlikely.

47 Tasks a Virtual Employee Can Do for Your Business

For U.S. businesses, HireSmart’s approach means access to dedicated professionals like Tony who bring stability, accountability, and innovation to their roles. The agency’s careful vetting process – accepting only one percent of applicants – and comprehensive training program ensure clients receive top-tier talent ready to contribute from day one.

Advice for Fellow VEs

Tony encourages other virtual employees to embrace challenges: “Do not be scared. I would always encourage them to just give it a try. As far as taking a new role, just be open. Take whatever challenge that comes your way because opportunity won’t always come. Just be willing to expand your horizon and grow.”

His success demonstrates how HireSmart’s support enables virtual employees to focus on excellence in their work while maintaining work-life balance. The agency provides health and dental benefits, educational scholarships for VEs’ children, and ongoing professional development opportunities — creating an environment where employees like Tony can thrive.

Building Stronger Teams: The Importance of a Staff Maintenance Strategy

Through mindful attention to both personal and professional growth, Tony continues to exemplify the qualities that make HireSmart’s virtual employees valuable assets to U.S. businesses. His back-to-back core value awards reflect not just individual achievement, but the success of HireSmart’s mission to create meaningful, sustainable careers for its virtual employees while providing exceptional service to clients.

Want to know how a mindful virtual employee like Tony could benefit your team? Click here to schedule a free consultation.