FAQs

What is a freelance secretary?

A freelance secretary or virtual assistant, as otherwise known, support their clients by supplying ad hoc cover to suit their needs.  This can alleviate pressure on existing administration staff as well as saving their company money on staffing costs.  As so much administration can be done remotely you are also alleviating the necessity to accommodate an additional member of staff. 

how much do you charge?

You will find I charge more than you would pay for an hourly rate to a permanent member of staff.  Remember you are only paying for my services when you use me.  I use my own space, equipment and cover all my own taxes and pension costs etc.  I am not in the business to undercut other freelance secretaries so I like to consider my prices comparable to them.  It is, however, always recommended for you to do a little research before you choose your assistant.  If I haven't put you off then please take a look at my table of fees.

Turnaround time

I aim to have work completed with 48 hours of receiving it.  Urgent work should be discussed before hand and can normally be expected within 6 hours.

communication

 I can communicate by email, Skype, mobile phone and land line. If I am in the process of working with a client I may not be able to answer the telephone, but messages can be left and will be answered the same day.  My general office hours are Monday to Friday, 9 - 5 except public holidays (unless by prior arrangement) and I am happy to discuss out of hours service.

software

 I use Express Scribe and For The Record for transcription and for receiving and sending files I use Drop box.  This allows a secure way of sending  large files in different formats. 

is my information safe with you?

It may be necessary on occasions for you to share passwords, credit card details or other confidential matters in order to complete a job.  I can appreciate this may be daunting especially at the beginning of our working relationship.  I maintain up to date software, anti-virus/anti malware and back up all my work.  I am also a fully paid up member of AMSPAR, a voluntary member of the Society of Virtual Assistants and adhere to the Data Protection Act.
I also like to sign a work and confidential agreement between myself and and new clients and will be happy to do the same for you.
No disclosure of information will be given to a 3rd party.

is there anything you wont do?

Obviously if it is illegal or I feel it puts me in a moral or ethically compromised position then I will decline the work.  If you have something unusual then I will be happy to discuss this on an individual basis.

how do i pay?

An invoice will be issued and payment is expected within 14 days of issue.  You may pay by BACs, cheque or with cash.