frequently asked questions

It's all very well me telling you that I can do an amazing job (which I can!), but what actual experience do I have?! 

• Early Career:
  I started my career with a BSc degree in Midwifery, driven by a passion for helping and supporting people. Whilst I enjoyed my work, I soon realised I wanted to transition into the Clinical Research Industry. This move allowed me to stay within the NHS environment whilst also indulging my love for administration and organization.
• Clinical Research Career:
  Over 20 years, I advanced through various roles in Clinical Research, from Administrative Assistant to Project Manager, overseeing numerous Clinical Trials across Europe. This period honed my administrative and communication skills, and also developed my exceptional eye for detail.
• Other Roles:
  I've also worked as a sole trader (a Children's Book & Toy Store) and returned to the NHS, focusing on the Neonatal & Maternity sectors. Additionally, I'm a qualified Interior Designer, although that's simply a passion project!

Despite this varied career path, my strongest skills remain in administration, communication, and organization; all of which make me a great VA and asset to your business.

STEP ONE

• Get in touch using my website Contact Form, or email me directly at lucinda@thepeppermintpa.co.uk

STEP TWO

• I will respond to your email within 48 hours and I hope I'll be able to help with your request

STEP THREE 

• We will arrange a free briefing call at a time that works for both parties

STEP FOUR

• During the call I will establish your exact requirements and discuss the options available.  I will be happy to answer any questions, and if both parties are happy, we will move forward.

STEP FIVE

•  I will send you my booking form and T&Cs for review and sign off.

STEP SIX

• Once I've received the signed documents I will send a deposit invoice...
• Ad Hoc Work - 3 hours upfront (unused hours will be refunded)
• Package - one month in advance

STEP SEVEN

• Upon receipt of payment I will start reducing your To Do List, and freeing up your time!

• I will respond to emails within 48 hours (unless I'm on holiday and this will have been previously discussed and/or my Out of Office will be set)
• Ad Hoc work will be completed within 72 hours from contract sign off
• Those on a Package - I will complete my regular weekly hours as per our initial briefing.

I don't work fixed hours but I always ensure the work gets done, and to a very high standard.  

Clients who sign up to the Inbox Support and/or Diary Management Packages will usually benefit from 30mins assistance per day, Monday to Friday. This is always up for discussion at the initial briefing call.

For all clients, if you require certain days or specific timings, this will be discussed during our initial call and I will endeavour to meet your needs, but can't always promise this.

 Everyone deserves a holiday now and then!

• If I plan to take a break, I'll inform you well ahead of time and ensure all tasks are completed and well-organized before I leave.
• If you have a holiday coming up, we can schedule a call to discuss any support I can offer during your absence.  This is a huge benefit of hiring a Virtual Assistant - keeping emails and admin tasks under control while you're away!

Yes!  All my hours will be clearly tracked and accounted for using FreeAgent Accounting Software

I take client confidentiality very seriously and have strict policies in place to protect my clients' privacy. All personal information and sensitive data are stored securely and only accessed by The Peppermint PA.

Please see my Privacy Policy for all details.

To be able to work effectively I will need access to your email and calendar however, I take confidentiality very seriously and use LastPass business passwork manager to ensure encryption and safe sharing.

I am registered with the ICO and adhere to GDPR guidelines.

A contract will be put in place for all clients, using KoffeeKlatch, an external provider; this covers issues including data privacy, GDPR, NDAs, copyright , IP, tax and more.  

I also have professional indemnity insurance with PolicyBee, protecting both of us.