For Ina B., success in the virtual workplace comes down to a simple philosophy: treat everyone like a friend.

This approach earned Ina HireSmart Virtual Employees’ 2024 “Core Value Relationship Award,” recognizing her exceptional ability to build connections across digital spaces. The honor adds to an impressive list of achievements for Ina, who also received HireSmart’s prestigious “Top VE” award in 2023.

“Personally, I treat them as my friends, like my coworkers, even my bosses,” said Ina, who serves as a homeowner service representative for a U.S. property management client. “With all the bosses, all of my coworkers, I really feel like we’re just friends, enjoying the work we’re doing.”

Do Your Clients Feel Valued and Heard?

This mindset translates into consistently outstanding customer service. Ina’s client notes that she is “always on top of her game,” with Google reviews serving as testament to her dedication.

“Ina is overall one of the strongest assets to our team and company,” the client said. “She is a professional and a delight! She knows her job and does it well. She is a very positive person.”

The key to building strong relationships in a virtual environment? Communication and empathy, according to Ina.

“I always try to communicate with them, ask them how they are for the day, how they’re doing, wishing them well,” she says. “I always put myself in their shoes.”

This empathetic approach extends beyond routine interactions. Ina starts each workday with intention, saying a prayer before her shift and maintaining a focus on serving others.

Is Your Business Puzzle Missing a Key Piece?

“Be the kindest, not only to yourself but to your coworkers, to your client, to your bosses, to your customers or homeowners,” she said. “Patience is the key, because when you do not have that, everything could go wrong in just one second.”

Since joining HireSmart in May 2022, Ina has exemplified how virtual employees can become integral team members despite physical distance. She approaches her role with both professionalism and personal warmth, creating connections that transcend the digital divide.

“It’s really the support,” Ina said of what sets HireSmart apart. “They are different in terms of the support they provide whenever you need someone. I feel they appreciate every virtual assistant or virtual employee they have.”

This appreciation flows both ways. Ina values how HireSmart recognizes employee contributions through various awards and programs: “With HireSmart, it feels like they’re really giving importance to all of us.”

A mother of two young boys — Isaiah Ambert “Ice,” and Ishaan Amani “Amani,” — Ina balances her professional dedication with family life. Her virtual position allows her to be present for her children while delivering exceptional service to her clients.

“They’re more active nowadays; they want to join in everything,” she said of her sons. “They want to join in doing the household chores. They just want to be there whatever we do.”

The success of virtual employees like Ina demonstrates the value HireSmart brings to U.S. businesses seeking reliable, skilled professionals. Through careful vetting, comprehensive training, and ongoing support, HireSmart connects clients with virtual employees who become valuable team members.

HireSmart’s process includes a 40-hour certification program ensuring employees are prepared for their roles before client onboarding. The company provides virtual employees with health and dental benefits, educational scholarships for their children, and continuous professional development opportunities — all at no cost to clients.

This investment in employee well-being translates into exceptional service and high retention rates. For U.S. businesses, partnering with HireSmart means accessing talented professionals like Ina who bring both expertise and genuine relationship-building skills to their roles.

47 Tasks A Virtual Employee Can Do for Your Business

As Ina’s success shows, the future of work isn’t just about technology. It’s about building meaningful connections across continents. Through HireSmart, businesses can find virtual employees who don’t just fill positions but become integral team members committed to their clients’ success.

To learn more about bringing virtual employees onto your team, click here to schedule a free consultation.