Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Virtual Assistant (VA)?
As a Virtual Assistant (VA), I am an independent entrepreneur assisting individuals and companies with administrative support, usually via the internet. As a VA, I have my own office and all the tools required for the services I provide, including the latest in computer hardware and countless software programs. These are provided at no expense to you.
Why should I work with a VA?
Your time is valuable. You are busy promoting your business and working with your clientele. You should not be "bogged down" working nights or weekends handling the administrative tasks for your business.
How do I know if I really need a VA?
If you are wondering if you need a VA, you may find your answer here:
10 Signs You Might Need a Virtual Assistant
Why should I use a VA instead of a Temp (or a Student)?
First, you pay ONLY for the time I work for you. You don’t have to pay for vacation, sick days, holidays or provide any other benefits. As a small business owner, I pay my own taxes. Second, my 20+ years of executive office and managerial experience means I am ready to be in action. You do not need to spend time training me or “holding my hand”.
What are your hours of operation?
I work from my home office in Southeast Florida. My phone hours are between 8am and 5pm EST Monday through Friday. I may be available for some evening work, on an as-needed basis. I check email, even on weekends, and will respond so you know I have received your request.
What is the process for me to send assignments?
You are welcome to email your project(s) whenever you wish. During business hours, you can call me or send a fax to 877-798-7701 (phone & fax #). In addition, I have a voice mailbox specifically for clients (extension 101), so you may leave messages outside of office hours. I will be alerted via email to listen to it and will acknowledge at my earliest opportunity.
What types of services do you offer?
I offer a comprehensive list of services which can be viewed here: Services Offered. If there is a service you require that is not listed, please ask.
Who are your clients?
My skill set can be applied to virtually any type of industry. My clientele consists of:
- Attorneys
- Authors
- Executive Business/ Personal Coaches
- Freelance & Technical Writers
- Motivational Speakers
- Non-Profit Organizations
- Personal Fitness Trainers
- Retail Store Owners
- Software Consultants
What happens if I go over the amount of hours and can unused hours be rolled into the next month?
Many VA’s charge a higher hourly rate for any “overage”. As long as it does not occur on a regular basis, hours worked over the retainer amount will be billed at the same rate. If you continue to go over your hours, we can discuss adding more hours to your retainer package.
Since I schedule time each month based on what each client purchases, unused retainer hours do not normally roll over and are not refunded, so please be sure to select your hours per month appropriately. However, as long as it does not occur on a regular basis and is not an excessive amount of time, I am likely to offer flexibility.
Do you have special rates or packages available?
Clients may purchase prepaid hours (Pay As You Go), which is ideal for clients who are not certain how may hours they will use on a monthly basis or require less than 5 hours per month. For a lower hourly rate, you may select a monthly retainer package of 5 hours or more. The more hours you choose for your retainer, the less the cost per hour. You may request a copy of my current rates at any time.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Payments may be made by check by phone, credit card, or through PayPal, which is preferred. Along with your first invoice, you will receive a Payment Authorization Form which will allow you to select your preferred method of payment. Project related expenses will be billed and receipts will be provided. Any expense which is more than $25 will be submitted for your pre-approval.
How is time tracked?
I have software that allows me to clock in and out on every assignment, so you are billed only for the time used to work for you and your business. Any breaks or interruptions, the clock goes off. For each period I work for you (project-based) or at the end of each retainer period (monthly), you will be provided a report which details how your time has been spent.
What is your turnaround time for a project?
Turnaround time will depend on the complexity and urgency of each project. I endeavor to submit completed work in 24 hours or less, but typically please expect a 24-48 hour turnaround. Along with the details of your project, please include your requested date for completion. I will do all I can to meet your requested timeline. Depending on other commitments, “rush” items may be billed at a higher rate and will be quoted and agreed upon before work starts.
How do you ensure confidentiality?
Unless I am compelled to testify in a court of law, none of your personal or business information will be disclosed to third parties without your written consent. I am also happy to sign any confidentiality agreements that you provide.
How do I get started?
Please email me at Jaimie@AVirtualAssistant4You.com or call toll-free 877-798-7701 and we can arrange a free 30-minute telephone consultation, in which we will discuss your business needs and the solutions my company can provide. If you decide to retain my services, I will email you a service agreement and we can get started right away.
