What is a virtual assistant?

A virtual assistant is an off-site office worker who provides any of the same skills that an on-site office worker provides. A small list of those skills are covered in the Services We Offer Tab above. 

Why hire a virtual assistant when I can just hire an on-site office assistant?

Simply put, a virtual assistant can cut your expenses considerably. A VA only charges for work done; you don't pay for breaks or lunches, for employee taxes and insurance, or for benefits packages including sick leave, overtime, or vacation. You will only pay for the time spent and the material needed for your projects.

The costs associated with office space, equipment, etc are non existent, as a VA works out of their own office and with their own equipment. 

How do I communicate with My VA?

As with any other company that you do business with, you can communicate with a VA through the phone, email, or snail mail. It's really just a simple as picking up the phone and calling. And, in my case, those whom I have provided work for will testify that I am quick to pick up the phone whenever possible. If you get an answering machine, it means that I am helping someone else and will return your call as quickly as it is possible to do so. 

How do I know my virtual assistant is working if I cannot see them? 

Remember what is at stake if a virtual assistant does not perform satisfactory work - their business reputation. There are many professions where the client does not see the work of the business owner. However, they can see by the final product that the job has been done. We take pride in the services we offer and in the timely manner that they are carried out. We do offer piece work where you would pay per document, however, this is usually more expensive than by the hour. 

What are the advantages of retaining a Virtual Assistant over hiring someone from a temp agency?

This is a good question. Rather than speaking about what a temp agency does or does not provide, I would prefer to speak about what a VA will provide. When retaining a virtual assistant, you will always be doing business with the same person every time. You will never need to use your time to oversee our work. We are already computer trained and can assist with specific needs such as general office, marketing, word processing, scheduling your appointments, answering your phone, and more. And it's important to remember that we can accomplish all of this without the need to pay overtime, taxes, or insurance. 

How can we exchange files?

There are many different file sharing applications on the web. Many virtual assistants, including myself, use Dropbox. At the same time, there are many other programs that offer file sharing like Microsoft Office and YouSendIt, and we would be happy to use the program of your choice. 

Is there a retainer fee?

Yes, I require that half of my fees be paid in advance. The other half will be paid upon completion of a project. If I'm hired on a regular basis, my policy is to charge weekly for VA services supplied and upfront for supplies needed for a project. 

 

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