Frequently Asked Questions About Working with Solace VA
What is an OBM and Virtual Assistant?
An Online Business Manager (OBM) and Virtual Assistant (VA) provides high-level operational and administrative support remotely. The role is designed to bring structure, clarity, and ease to your business—overseeing systems, managing workflows, and supporting day-to-day operations so everything runs seamlessly behind the scenes.
What types of tasks can you help with?
Support typically includes operational and administrative functions such as inbox and calendar management, client administration, document organisation, and workflow support. Rather than focusing on one-off tasks, my role is to support the smooth running of your business. If a request falls outside the agreed scope, it will always be discussed thoughtfully to ensure the right solution. Every engagement is customised—support is never one-size-fits-all.
How much does a virtual assistant cost in the UK?
The cost of hiring a virtual assistant in the UK can vary depending on the level of support you need and the type of tasks involved. At Solace VA, support is offered through monthly retainer packages starting from £300, designed for businesses that need reliable help with tasks such as inbox and calendar management, client communication, and general business support. If you're unsure how much support you need, we can talk through your workload and find a package that fits comfortably with your business.
Why do you work on a retainer rather than hourly or ad-hoc?
Retainers allow me to provide consistent, high-quality support without the disruption of constantly re-onboarding or switching priorities. For you, this means: •Someone who understands your business •Faster turnaround •Less explaining and follow-up It’s the most effective way to create calm, reliable support long term.
How do I know which retainer package is right for me?
You don’t need to decide alone. During the discovery call, we’ll talk through your workload, pressure points, and goals. I’ll then recommend the most suitable package based on what will genuinely support your business — not what will upsell you. Packages can be reviewed and adjusted as your needs change.
What happens if I don’t use all my hours?
Retainers are designed to support the overall running of your business, not to be tracked minute by minute. If your workload fluctuates occasionally, we’ll balance priorities across the month. If unused time becomes a pattern, we’ll review whether your retainer level still makes sense. The focus is always on value and consistency, not clock-watching.
What if I need more support than my package allows?
That’s completely fine. If you regularly need additional support, we can either: •Increase your retainer level, or •Agree on additional hours for that month Everything is discussed openly, with no surprises.
Is there a minimum commitment?
An initial commitment period allows us to establish a strong, aligned working rhythm. After this, support continues on a rolling basis—offering flexibility while maintaining consistency and quality.
What is your payment and billing policy?
Invoices are sent 14 days before the start of each service period and are due within 14 days of receipt. All hours are paid in advance, and work begins once payment has been received. Time tracking software is available upon request and can be included with any package. When used, time is rounded up or down to the nearest 15 minutes to ensure clarity and transparency. Rush requests or weekend support may require advance notice and, in some cases, an additional surcharge. If additional hours are needed outside of your selected package, they are billed at a discounted hourly rate.
Will I need to manage or oversee the work?
No. The intention of Solace Virtual Assistance is to remove mental load—not add to it. Support is proactive, organised, and quietly efficient, with regular updates so you remain informed without needing to oversee every detail. Once onboarding is complete, support runs smoothly in the background with regular updates to keep you informed.
How do we communicate?
Communication is intentional, clear, and considered. Depending on your preference, this may include email, shared systems, or scheduled check-ins. The goal is to keep communication streamlined while remaining responsive and approachable.
What are your working hours?
My general business hours are Monday through Friday, between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Responses are handled during this window, with flexibility available as needed based on client needs.
Do you work with international clients?
Yes. Clients are welcomed globally, provided communication and time zone coordination are aligned.
Is Solace Virtual Assistance suitable for growing or scaling businesses?
Absolutely. The support I provide is designed to evolve as your business grows — whether that’s improving systems, handling increased admin, or supporting more complex workflows over time.
How quickly can I expect tasks to be completed?
Turnaround times depend on task complexity and current priorities, which we’ll agree on together. I work proactively and plan workloads carefully, so tasks are handled calmly and efficiently — not rushed or reactive.
How do you handle confidentiality?
Discretion and trust are foundational at Solace VA. All client information is handled with care and integrity. Confidentiality is built into the service agreement, and non-disclosure agreements are available upon request.
How many clients do you support at one time?
I work with a limited number of retainer clients to ensure each receives focused, high-quality support. This is intentional and allows me to stay organised, responsive, and fully engaged in your business.
How do I get started?
The first step is to book a discovery call. This is a relaxed, no-pressure conversation to understand your business and see whether working together makes sense.
What happens after the discovery call?
After our discovery call, I’ll recommend the most suitable retainer option based on your needs. If we’re a good fit, we’ll move into onboarding. If not, I’ll be honest — the goal is always a supportive, well-aligned working relationship.