Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fee's for your virtual assistant services?

Pre-paid retainer plans start at 10 hours for $350.00 per month. The per hour fee gradually reduces as the number of retainer hours increases. Our hourly "pay as you go" rate is $60.00 per hour.

Please note that "rush" projects are charged at a rate of $85.00 - $100.00 per hour with a one hour minimum and are subject to our schedule and availability.

Please contact us for a full rate sheet which contains our terms and service in full detail.

What is a retainer?

A virtual assistance retainer is a contract that purchases monthly hours in advance in exchange for a lower hourly fee. It guarantees a certain amount of our business management time during the course of the month as well as entitles the client to priority scheduling. Retainer clients can think ahead as far as what their administrative needs might be and plan accordingly.

Can retainer hours be carried over to the next month?

No, retainer hours must be utilized within the month. If you do not choose to utilize your hours within that month they are forfeited. All retainer plans require an initial committment and cancellation policies apply.

Do you provide immediate turnaround?

No, we do not. Our services are not designed for those who are always in "crisis mode" and who need instant responses and feedback. Our services are designed more for the Eco responsible professional who has a steady range of tasks and projects that can be carried out over time.

What operating systems do you use?

We utilize both MACs and PC's to ensure optimum cross platform stature for all of our virtual support clients.

Can you help me switch from my PC to a Mac?

Yes! We would be honored to be your virtual assistant guide to the world of Mac OS X. We can provide advice on what type of Mac to get, how to equip it, advise you on care and maintenance of your new Mac, and advice on what types of software to get.

What software do you utilize?

We have most populary used software that the vast majority of our clients require. If you need a program that we don't have, we can more than likely obtain it. We have most software in both MAC and PC versions.

Is a contract required to use your business support services?

Yes, a contract and privacy agreement is required for all clients.

Where does the work get administered and how?

All work is done from our offices and is accomplished by email, internet FTP transfer, fax (either standard or electronic), and phone. We have a digital scanner and are virtually "paperless". Most clients email or scan us .pdf versions of their files and documents. Some clients also utilize overnight mail services and CD/DVD exchange. For many of our clients we utilize www.logmein.com or various webinar services like Yugma, to facilitate communication both with them and between them and their own clients.

Can your provide references?

We can provide client testimonials for you. In some cases, a phonecall with one of our current clients can be arranged, subject to their approval.

What are your credentials and memberships?

Our company has many years of experience working with interior designers, interior decorators, contractors, artists, entrepreneurs, educators, retail merchandisers and buyers. Principal Taryn Merrick is certified by the National Association of Realtors (NAR®), as a Real Estate Professional Assistant. She is also certified by IVAA as a Certified Real Estate Support Specialist. The design experience is due to administrative background at the corporate offices of the Home Depot and EXPO Design Center. Her reale estate background is due to working for several Commerical Real Estate Developers over the years. Taryn was the EXPO Interior Design Center Award Winner of Administrative Excellence in 2000.

Our company has extensive background in providing relocation assistant services for large corporations and have assisted in the relocation for many interior designers and people in the home improvement field; as well as organizing large relocations for corporate executives and business managers.

Cocke County and Newport, TN Chamber of Commerce Member
Madison County, NC Chamber
Swain County, NC Chamber
IVAA Administrative Trade Organization Ethics Checked Member
Ecademy Global Business Organization Member
A Clayton's Secretary
Idealist
Co-op America