Frequently Asked Questions

I’m just starting my business. Do I need a virtual assistant?

Yes! I can help you brand your documents for a consistent, professional look — like you’ve been in business for years. Let me help you complete your website updates and write a few blog posts. We can set up efficient administrative processes right at the start so you can spend more time working with clients and generating income.

I’ve got so much to do! How would I train a virtual assistant to do it all?

Don’t worry! We will have a few discussions, and I will look through your past work to see how it has been done and carry on from there. We can set up some systems that will streamline your business processes. This will save you time!

Can I not just hire someone from a freelance site?

Sure! You’ll likely get a better rate. But will you get customized, confidential service? When you hire me, you get me — dedicated to helping you thrive!

What are your rates?

For routine, consistent work, it is easiest to purchase a package. My flexible packages are based on my clients’ needs. If you only need seven hours a month, you only pay for seven hours. We will work together to determine how many hours you need.

How do I pay you?

Clients pay for their retainer packages in advance at the beginning of the month. Canadian payments are made via e-transfer. International payments are made via PayPal. Please note that late payments may mean that I cannot complete your work during that month. Non-payment will result in a suspension of services.

Do we talk face-to-face or by email? How do we communicate?

That is really up to you. There are several ways we can do face-to-face telemeetings. Email, phone calls, and text messages are possible too. We can decide on a method and frequency to suit your needs. The important thing is that we communicate regularly. My office hours are usually Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 16:00 but may vary depending on the day. If you occasionally need to meet outside regular business hours due to time zone differences, it is possible.

What about confidential information?

My privacy practices are in accordance with all federal and provincial laws and regulations. I comply with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

The security and integrity of my clients’ personal information are very important to me. I take every reasonable measure necessary to protect the privacy of my clients while providing the services they expect. This includes using password-protected computers, hard drives, cloud drives, and other devices on which I might access my clients’ information. I review my privacy and security safeguards on a regular basis and revise them if necessary.

My contracts include a confidentiality & non-disclosure clause. This reassures clients that the information I will not disclose or disseminate any information I collect. I do not sell, trade or share clients’ contact information nor use any confidential information without the express written consent from the client and then only use such information for the purpose for which it was intended.

I carry Commercial General Liability Insurance for Information Technology, Errors and Omissions, and Cyber Insurance for Multimedia.

Do you store my files on your computer?

I can, but only if you wish. It is more efficient to set up a shared cloud folder (e.g. Dropbox, iCloud, OneDrive, etc.) where I can access the files you need me to use. This way, you are in control of all of your documents. If you don’t know how to set up a shared cloud drive, don’t worry. I can help you with that.

How do you manage my email and other online accounts? Do I have to give you my passwords?

It depends. In many cases, you can set me up as an authorized user or manager, and I log in with my own credentials. Sometimes, I need your usernames and passwords to log in to your accounts. Together we will explore what options are available and how best to accomplish the tasks you need me to do while still carefully protecting your confidential information.

How do I find out more before I hire you?

Use the contact form to tell me about you, your business, or any upcoming projects you want help with. I’ll email you back to set up an appointment.