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Writer's pictureClairical

So, What Exactly Is A Virtual Assistant Anyway?


I often get asked many questions about my job and what it is I actually do. So, I thought it was time to put pen to paper and answer some of those frequently asked questions - What is a Virtual Assistant? How do I work with a Virtual Assistant? What are the Benefits to my business etc.


About Me

I'm Claire, the owner of Clairical, a Virtual Assistant business. I'm also a mum to two boys and we all live in Devon, in a lovely village just outside of Exeter. I am Prince 2 qualified with a degree in Business Management from Exeter University. Since then, and over the past fifteen years, I have gained a wealth of experience from a variety of sectors including Public Services (Environment Agency), Charity (Devon Communities Together) and a number of Private Commercial enterprises from Property to IT.

What is a Virtual Assistant? I work with a variety of clients from a Community Interest Company to small businesses and start-ups. The variety of clients means that I provide a number of different services that include data entry, research and minute-taking to social media training and designing social media graphics. I'm self-employed and usually work remotely, although my Social Media Training is currently carried out one-to-one.

What Are the Benefits?

  • Fully flexible - use my services on an ad-hoc basis or on a monthly retainer basis

  • There is no need to employ a permanent member of staff

  • Because I work remotely there is no need to provide office space or equipment

  • No need to pay sickness absence, holidays and PAYE

  • Leaves you to focus on running your business instead of being bogged down with admin

  • No recruitment or agency fees

What Type of Work Can I Hand Over to Clairical? Most types of office work can be undertaken and more details about the services I offer can be found on my website. And, the chances are that if I don't offer the service, then I will know someone that can help.

How Do We Share Files and What About Confidentiality? I primarily use email to share files but also tools such as Google docs and Dropbox. Passwords are shared via LastPass which is a password management service that stores encrypted passwords in private accounts. It's free and easy to set up and means that I don't get access to your passwords.

If needed I am more than happy to sign a confidentiality agreement. I am Data Protection registered and you can view a copy of my Privacy Policy on my website. I also issue a contract when I engage a client to ensure we both know what is expected.

How Do I keep Track of Hours worked? I use an online time tracking app called Top Tracker. When I invoice you I will also send you a copy of the time tracking report.

How Often Do Clairical Invoice Me? Clients will be invoiced either after an individual assignment is completed or on an ongoing monthly basis. Invoices are to be settled within thirty (30) days upon delivery unless otherwise agreed. The final invoice shall include billable time, reimbursable expenses, and any other fees related to the Work.

Do I Have to Purchase A Minimum Number of Hours? No, I try to work as flexibly as possible. My packages allow you to either pay by the hour which enables you to use my services on an ad-hoc basis. And this is the important bit I charge a rate that is reflective of the work undertaken not a flat hourly rate. This means that a data entry task will be considerably cheaper than my Social Media Training.

Why Should I choose to work with Clairical?

I’m flexible, cost effective, professional and provide a personalised service. This means I understand that your business is important and that all clients are not the same. Taking the time to understand your requirements is the first step. But, above all I love what I do and take great pride in providing a great service.

So, What's Next?

I offer a free one hour consultation so why not get in touch to see how I can help you. This can either be in person or via the phone or Skype. I'm also on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram so why not connect?



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