Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Virtual Assistant?
One of the best resources a business can have! A VA is a highly trained, independent entrepreneur working from his or her own fully equipped office. A VA provides a variety of administrative and clerical support services and is available on an as-needed basis, charging only for time on task. Committed to your success, a VA is a strategic alliance that allows business owners and individuals to concentrate on what they need to grow and succeed.
HOW much per hour? How can that be cheaper than an employee or a temp?
The actual hourly wage paid to a traditional or temporary employee is only a small part of the total compensation cost of that employee. See my cost comparison page to see how much that employee truly costs you. Add in the fact you pay that employee for a set amount of hours, whether they are productively engaged or not. I only charge for the time I am actually working on your project - not for any downtime.
How do we communicate?
By phone, fax, email and carriers such as FedEx, UPS and USPS.
What is your turn-around time?
For projects of two hours or less, turn-around will be same time next business day. For example, a project received and accepted by me at 11 AM on Tuesday, will be returned to you by 11 AM on Wednesday. Larger projects will require a longer turn-around.A good rule of thumb is to estimate one business day per two hours project time. I will make all efforts to complete the project as soon as possible. Sometimes shorter completion times are possible. My policy is to under-promise and over-deliver as often as I can.
What are your payment policies?
For most projects, a 50% downpayment is required for me to begin your project. The balance will be due upon project completion, before project release. I use PayPal to facilitate your payments. I also accept checks. Other payment schedules may be negotiated for larger projects lasting several weeks or months.
Retainer packages are offered for clients wishing to reserve a set number of hours per month. These hours are offered at a discounted rate. See my rates page for further information.
What procedures do you use to give project estimates?
Just as an auto mechanic has industry standards saying how much time a particular repair should take, there are Industry Production Standards (IPS) set for the production of documents and the delivery of other common business services requested by clients. These are published by Office Business Center Association International (OBCAI). I use these in conjunction with your input, samples of source material that you provide and my own experience to estimate the time a project will take.
What are your business hours?
9 AM to 4 PM, weekdays. That said, I am also looking to maintain a positive work-life balance just as I hope to be able to enhance yours. I may be out of my office occasionally to run business or personal errands. One of the best reasons to be an independent contractor is the flexible hours. While the hours may be flexible, they are not optional. I may be working later in the afternoon, earlier in the morning or some evenings to ensure my promised turn-arounds.
Any other costs I can expect to pay?
You will be invoiced for any materials needed to complete your project, such as postage, printing, mileage, shipping and shipping supplies. If possible, I will combine errands so as to lower costs to the client for time and mileage.
There is a 50% surcharge for rush completion of a project requested in less the turn-around time outlined above. Rush completion is subject to my time availability.
TCB Virtual Assistance 