Virtual Assistant FAQs – Designated PA

Welcome to our Virtual Assistant FAQs, your one-stop resource for key information about partnering with Designated.

We understand that choosing the right virtual assistant is a crucial decision. This guide covers important aspects, from the process of matching you with the perfect PA to our flexible working hours, robust security measures, and what happens if you’re ever unsatisfied with your PA. We are here to provide you with the knowledge to confidently navigate our service, tailored to suit your unique business needs.

How do I know my PA will understand my business?

It is vital that we match our clients with the right PA and vice versa, so we invest a lot of time and thought into ensuring the most effective working partnership possible. Let us know exactly what you’re looking for, your goals and objectives, and any special requirements, and we’ll introduce you to the perfect person to work with you.

Do I have to stick to regular hours with my PA?

Our standard working hours are Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. If you need flexibility outside of these hours, this can be discussed on your initial call with our Head of PA Services, Sophie Brown

How quickly can a PA start? 

We aim to get things moving as quickly as possible while ensuring nothing is rushed. It’s imperative that the right PA is chosen and successfully onboarded to work for you and your company. We aim to make the process as seamless as possible for you.

What happens if I don’t like my PA?

This is rarely an issue we are faced with. A lot of thought goes into selecting the right PA for our clients, and it’s very much a collaborative process. However, if there is a situation where, after a period of time working together, you don’t feel as though it’s working, we will manage the situation for you and find a new PA to take over. 

If my PA works virtually, how do I know my work is secure?

Keeping our client’s information secure is of the utmost importance to us and we have put in place systems and processes to manage this which includes software that all our PAs have on their systems. As a company, we are accredited with the government-backed Cyber Essentials scheme. This will be discussed on your initial call with our Head of PA Services, Sophie Brown.

What type of experience will my PA have?

All our PAs have at least 3 years’ experience working as a PA within a senior to board-level environment.

Do I have to have a virtual PA?

All the PAs on the Designated team work virtually, and they are set up to be able to deliver the highest level of service. If you would prefer a PA to work in your office, we can help you recruit the perfect candidate to work directly for you. 

How do we decide the scope of work for my PA?

On your initial call with us, we will discuss the type of support you are looking for and how we can best deliver that for you. We have a framework describing the roles and responsibilities of a PA and we will be able to guide you through that.

What is the process if I have an issue? 

If ever an issue arises, please contact the Head of PA Services, Sophie Brown. Sophie will work closely with you and your PA on an ongoing basis to ensure the relationship is successful. 

What happens when my PA is on holiday or is sick?

If your PA is on holiday or is unavailable due to sickness, we will ensure cover is provided by another of our exceptional PAs. 

Do you offer any refund system if things don’t work out?

We operate on a rolling contract basis and ask for one calendar months’ notice should you wish to cancel your contract. So, there shouldn’t be a requirement for refunds.

How will you match me with the perfect VA?

Matching our clients with the perfect PA is one of the most critical parts of the process. We will get a feel for the style of work and culture of your company and take time to think about who would be the best fit, both from a professional background and also from a personal perspective.

How much does it cost?

Our packages start at £335 per month plus VAT.

What hours do you work?

Our standard working hours are Monday to Friday 9 am – 5 pm.

What is the notice period?

Should you need to cancel our services at any point, we require one calendar months’ notice.

Can I increase or decrease my hours?

Absolutely, that’s one of the significant benefits of our service. We appreciate the change in pace that a working year can bring, and we are happy to flex our services to suit your needs. We ask for one month’s notice when changing packages to allow our PAs to manage their workloads.