I have always loved reading and watching stories that revolve around solving mysteries—whether it’s The Hardy Boys, Hercule Poirot, The Nancy Drew Mysteries, or pretty much any version of Sherlock Holmes ever created.
Why do I love them so much? Honestly, I have no idea because, in real life, I’m a total chicken. I’m the one running away from danger, not toward it!
And true crime stories? Forget it—they’re way too scary! Although, when I do get brave enough to watch one, I can’t help but become obsessed with figuring out “whodunit.” Of course, this often results in me having nightmares, so I usually just avoid them.
Lately, I’ve been watching a version of Sherlock Holmes called Elementary, and it’s probably why “detective work” has been on my mind.
Something about the way Sherlock and Watson work together to solve a mystery reminded me a teeny-weeny bit about what I do as a virtual assistant.
Granted, my virtual assistant work is on a much safer (and less thrilling) scale, but I couldn’t help noticing the parallels:
- Solve Mysteries: Detectives uncover hidden clues to solve cases. Similarly, virtual assistants piece together scattered information such as finding the perfect tool for a client or organizing complex data.
- Attention to Detail: Detectives rely on small, seemingly insignificant details to crack a case. Virtual assistants also need a sharp eye to spot issues in schedules, emails, or contracts to enhance efficiency and avoid errors.
- Research and Investigation: Detectives follow leads. Virtual assistants dive deep into software options, industry trends, or strategies to help clients achieve their goals.
- Problem-Solving: While detectives solve crimes, virtual assistants tackle administrative puzzles, like managing conflicting deadlines or troubleshooting tech issues.
- Adaptability: Detectives are masters at adapting to unexpected twists. Virtual assistants must also stay flexible as clients’ needs, industries, and challenges evolve.
- Trust and Confidentiality: Detectives handle sensitive information, and so do virtual assistants, who earn trust by maintaining strict confidentiality.
Now, some of you might be thinking, “Come on, being a virtual assistant is nothing like being a detective!”
Maybe not.
Maybe I’m just living vicariously through Elementary. Or maybe there’s something to be said for how virtual assistants help their clients solve problems and find solutions, just like detectives crack their cases.
Whatever the reason, I feel grateful to serve my clients and help them succeed.
If you’re in need of a PI (private investigator) — oops, I mean a VA (virtual assistant), please don’t hesitate to reach out!
I’d love to help you solve your next business mystery.