?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? If a client asks, a virtual assistant can agree to a restrictive covenant, such as a non-compete or a non-solicitation provision. Nobody likes to fire a client. 
If this is not specified in the contract, there could be confusion about whether or not this is expected behavior. You want to get paid for the work you do, right? Spam is so not cool. It should also be concise and easy to read, so font styles and sizes, spaces, margins, line spacing, and all other aspects of its formatting should make it easy to read. DISCLAIMER: Neither VA Network NZ nor iCLAW take any responsibility for losses, costs, expenses or claims that might arise from the wording or effect of the contract once it has been edited by the buyer (apart from the highlighted sections) or as a consequence of the reliance on the contract by third parties to whom the buyer has provided the contract for their use. Click here to get full access to the VA Toolbox today. They are particularly useful for a VA to have handy when a client will be providing them with sensitive information they are looking to safeguard. It ensures that both parties are on the same page, so to speak. The Virtual Assistants availability to the Client is _______________. No matter what you choose for your own business, any contract that hires a virtual assistant should include certain payment terms. Virtual assistant contracts ensure that you and your virtual assistant are on the same page. This means that if either party fails to meet contractual obligations, theres a strong measure of recourse through documentation that supports your position. It defines what that VA will do and how theyll do it and establishes rules to follow throughout the relationship. But- Im going to break it to you now at some point in your VA business, you are likely going to have topart ways with a client. If the VA will receive access to any company logins, it is especially important to discuss how this information should be stored and used. Your virtual assistant contract should include details on how long the contract will last (i.e., start date and end date) plus information on what happens if either party wants to end it before the stated terms are finished. ensuring that clients respect and pay them for their work. The key to a good confidentiality provision is to ensure that both parties know exactly what is covered so there are no surprises or accidental disclosures. How to terminate What process needs to be followed before terminating? A virtual assistant contract template is designed and sent for signature when you start a new project. In the event there is a dispute or disagreement between the Client and the Virtual Assistant, both parties will attempt to resolve any conflict through discussion and negotiations. According to the rule of any communication, it must be clear, consistent and precise, with only as much detail as necessary. > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? << ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? The virtual assistant contract doesn`t just focus on the clarification issues surrounding what the VA should do. If this is not possible, you can agree on a shorter period. You want to have a contract in place before you start working for a client because it protects you. The Virtual Assistant will be paid upon completion of agreed-upon duties at an hourly rate of $_____. If a customer requests it, a virtual assistant can accept a restrictive agreement, e.B a non-compete clause or a non-solicitation clause. And dont worry, creating a basic virtual assistant contract is easy. He can also sign a mandate contract for clients with whom he wishes to establish a long-term relationship. The contract will be from you (service provider) to said company for your services. /ColorSpace /DeviceRGB >> How can I make sure Im covered, legally? . If you have a virtual assistant business, its time to make sure you are fully covered with a contract that was made specifically for you. This clause is especially common with virtual assistant companies that hire subcontractors because it helps prevent the subcontractor from poaching customers. What methods of payment will you accept? ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? A local lawyer might be in a better position to respond, sorry! It can also be helpful if you include milestones or markers for the specific tasks (i.e., when Virtual Assistant A must create the monthly newsletter in order for client Z to see it). Its SO stressful. Lets jump right in! In this sense, non-compete clauses also protect the clients intellectual property (IP) rights. Before sharing it with anyone, they need proof that you wont disclose any of the information to another person without prior permission. Theyre nice, and weve been emailing back and forth for weeks now. This is The Virtual Savvys signature. In such cases, discounted rates can be negotiated and can often prompt the customer to make advance payments. By setting clear guidelines ahead of time, both parties will know what to expect if this situation arises. The amount to be paid by the client ($30/hour, $500 per project, Etc. All rights reserved | Website by My Girl Friday, Business Planners and other Resources for Virtual Assistants, Virtual Assistant Non-Disclosure Agreement Template. ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /V[yw@#{.$kn. The common practice is that a client does not want to hire a contractor to do work for them without a valid contract. ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? As with any other contract, it makes sense that the virtual assistant contract contains some basic details. Check Out These EPIC Bonuses - Limited Time Only! A contract clarifies issues such as the money the customer has to pay to the virtual assistant. REFUND POLICY: If you are unsatisfied with your template for any reason there is a 5-day money back guarantee. It is a simple legal document for a service or project. Ideally, a project goes well, you love your client, and you wont need to exercise this clause. And if by chance there are misunderstandings, it gives both parties the legal protection they need to feel secure with their work arrangement. This means that it must be written in a language that both parties to the agreement will understand. The main benefit of using a virtual assistant contract template for each new project is to protect your work and make sure you get paid on time. If you are looking for a bespoke custom contract (rather than a template) then contact the iCLAW team directly to request a quote. Be sure to outline the complete terms of these restrictions in your contract; some covenants that are too specific can limit your ability to do business. We promise to never share your information with a third party and never spam. Sometimes overcommunicating is whats needed to give that extra push! It also specifies who has what rights and who must fulfil which obligations. > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? Unfortunately, the legal side of a virtual assistant business can go neglected (or worse, ignored) for far too long due to a lack of funds, knowledge, or both. Be sure to check with the laws of your state before agreeing to any restrictive covenants, as the ability to be enforced can vary widely from state to state. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Many virtual assistants (VAs) are first-time entrepreneurs, and as a result, they often forget to treat the client-VA relationship as a business transaction, one that requires a virtual assistant contract. Follow up, follow up, follow up! ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~?
A well-written contract will also define parameters that may directly influence how a VA performs the required tasks. The document provides a framework in which to discuss how work will be conducted. These tasks may require ________________________. He has asked me to write a contract, is this meant to come from me or the referral? However, before you hire someone, you need to settle everything with a detailed virtual assistant contract. /Length 27325 4 0 obj Be sure to include: For most virtual assistants, payment is usually handled in one of the following ways: Tip: Remember, a virtual assistant is not an employee and is typically not a salaried position. Most of the time, many customers who insist that certain useful clauses be removed before signing the PDF virtual assistant contract are problem creators. This includes ownership of all files, documents, data, materials or other information comprising a part of this Agreement. Many virtual assistants are independent contractors. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It should be free of errors or omissions. B hours required, may be included. w !1AQaq"2B #3Rbr
A VA contract outlines each partys obligations, rights, responsibilities, privileges, and limitations. B, for example, to set up a competing company itself. Stock Photo Websites, The Virtual Assistant's Guide, VA Resources, VA Work Tips and Best Practices, Top Virtual Assistant Tools 101 (Part 7): Cybersecurity and Data Security System Tools, VA Resources, VA Work Tips and Best Practices, Virtual Staffing 101, How to Setup Contracts for a Virtual Assistant and Set Work Expectations, Hire Personal Assistant, Get Things Done: How to Get Help Checking Off Your List, Top Virtual Assistant Skills to Look for in 2022 and Beyond, How to Future Proof Your Business: Essential Tools and Solutions. Whether youre about to take on your first role as a virtual assistant or have been doing this for many years, you need to make sure that every business transaction is as straightforward and painless as possible. And since you share this information with your VA, you should also add a non-solicitation clause. It sets expectations and rules for both parties, which can help reduce confusion, frustration, or even conflict down the road. This, of course, is not good business practice. Its awkward and uncomfortable. If you elect to seek the return of your money, you will no longer be authorised to use the contract. He points out that the assistant is hired for a specific department or project and is not an employee. The parties further agree that this Agreement shall be effective upon the date of electronic execution. Im telling you, Danielle gave us the total hookup in this guest post. Its not a good idea to have vague deliverables that are open-ended (e.g., client needs will be met). It also deals with payment terms, which state the following: If you use a virtual assistant company, it will usually provide a contract that you will have to sign. They often work from home, which can be miles away from the client. Looking for virtual assistant work? A good, confidential virtual assistant is worth her/his weight in GOLD. Nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) protect the clients confidential information from being revealed to the public or other companies. In general, VAs can improve the efficiency of operations because theyre able to work from any location with internet access. A contract also protects your business by documenting that agreements have been reached between you and your client. By scrolling around this site you agree to ourPrivacy Policy. Be sure to create and provide some type of measurables to your client, whether thats a completed project, website, Word Document, inbox zero, time tracking log, or something similar. A non-solicitation clause means that one party agrees not to market, advertise to, or otherwise solicit clients or customers from the other. ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? In a virtual assistant contract, both parties should agree on the specific set of tasks and deliverables that the virtual assistant will be responsible for. If a client changes their mind after signing an agreement, its your responsibility to honor their decision, unless, of course, that decision is made based on false information. Its one less thing to worry about because you and your client have clearly defined what is expected. The contract is necessary to clarify the measures to be taken in the event of a dispute between the customer and his virtual assistant. Will you require payment in advance? > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. The added benefit is also that customers have a written signature for the scope of the project and the steps of the solution. Otherwise, such clauses would only increase your contract without adding value to your business relationship. IMPORTANT: Please do not be tempted to change any part of the document which is not highlighted. For example, if you own your own virtual assistant company and you hire other virtual assistants to subcontract for specific products, the contract may contain restrictive covenants to ensure that the subcontractor does not try to solicit your clients. It gives VAs the right (and responsibility) to say no if theyre unable to do something or dont feel comfortable doing it, without fear of reprisal from their clients. } !1AQa"q2#BR$3br /Width 2903 Another important question that the virtual assistant contract clarifies is what exactly are the services expected by the VA. A detailed list of tasks with certain measurable criteria such as a delivered product, a completed project, or a journal that tracks the necessary time may be required. Some customers also want other restrictive covenants. The virtual assistant contract template can also clarify the number of hours a Member must enter. It may also include details about weekly meetings with the client or monthly all-hands meetings with the clients entire staff. Feel free to fill out the form here: thevirtualsavvy.com/hire. Of course, you want your country of origin, but I am not sure to what extent these kinds of agreements are enforceable across borders. The Virtual Assistant may not share or publish in any form anything about this project (including but not limited to personal journal, portfolio, interviews with other parties, etc.) ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? It also doesnt guarantee you payment of services rendered or non-payment, as the case may be. ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? Some virtual assistants believe that contracts are optional and only meant for companies with several VAs or business owners who have a large virtual assistant team at their command. JFIF C In the relatively new world of online business, services offered by virtual assistants can often seem intangible. Non-solicitation clauses can be used to protect the clients confidential information and employee relationships, as well. Sorry, we couldn't find any posts. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. An established agreement also means that your clients wont try to pull any funny business and take advantage of your hard work or good nature.
A VA will, therefore, also be responsible for payment of all taxes. Our legal buddies at iCLAW have put together this agreement template for us, so its been tailored specifically with New Zealand businesses in mind. Youll be much more likely to get paid for services completed if you have a signed copy of an agreement between you and your client that specifies whats expected from both parties. Find a Virtual AssistantWhat is a Virtual Assistant?Join the NetworkPrivacy Policy | Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions, Virtual Assistant Network NZ 2020. When to terminate How much notice is needed before the termination becomes effective? Contracts are legally binding agreements, which means that both parties must adhere to them and their contents. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The contract must indicate that the client will reimburse you for out-of-pocket expenses that you incur while working. 2020-2022 The Legal Paige I All Rights Reserved Terms & Conditions Terms of Purchase Privacy Policy Disclaimer Site CreditsThe Legal Paige is owned by The Legal Paige, LLC and is not a law firm. > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? Nothing on this website is legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is formed by purchasing or viewing a contract template. Im a brand hiring a VA to work for me. The Virtual Assistant hereby irrevocably grants to the Client full right and permission to reproduce, copy, publish and distribute said information or material in any way deemed fit by the Client without obtaining further approval from the Virtual Assistant. ), Flat fee for a full project or installments for the achievement of certain phases of a project. Cancellation notices give employers time to find replacements and reduce stress on both parties. Even if youve been emailing back and forth with them for months or even years, that doesnt mean that theyll continue to be responsive. Payment How is the payment handled if the agreement is terminated? Such an agreement also contains standard contractual clauses, such as choice of law and place of jurisdiction. The Client agrees to provide a list of task requests no fewer than fourteen (14) days prior to their execution. Set expectations by including a response time and working hours, and make sure client inquiries are answered during them unless an urgent reply is required. Click here to get full access to the VA Toolbox today. With the help of attorney Danielle Liss, The Virtual Savvy created a comprehensive contract created JUST for virtual assistants in our VA Toolbox. A virtual assistant contract is an agreement of conduct between a virtual assistant and the virtual assistants client. Specialize Your Services & Charge Higher Rates (Inside SavvyVault), Legit Ways Entrepreneurs Can Generate Cash FAST, Virtual Assistant Skills 2020 (MEGA LIST). This site uses cookies. We had so much positive feedback from our last post/interview with Danielle Liss from Businessese, that we thought it would be good to do a follow-up post to make sure that everyone knows whats what when it comes to virtual assistant contracts. The NDA part of the non-disclosure agreement of the contract prohibits the VA or service provider from sharing your sensitive information with other parties. > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? If so, who has responsibility if things go wrong? We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. If no agreement can be reached within [2] business days of the date on which notice of dispute is received by either party, then said dispute shall be escalated to an arbitrator for final determination. Want more actionable VA tips and helpful insights on remote work? > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? This accountability will depend on the terms agreed upon in a virtual assistant contract; thus, its important that you review your virtual business framework. unless the Client has given written consent. > >E 8G$Z}^A};Z+ Q qH (?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? An important element of the virtual assistant contract is to determine the nature of the employment agreement whether the VA or service provider is legally considered an independent contractor of your company and not an employee. Some virtual assistant contracts state that a VA must be available for a certain number of hours every day or week. It automatically calculates your VA earnings and allows you to pay with your preferred payment method. After all, the typical virtual assistant is a freelancer and according to various sources and forums; Inability to get paid and late payment challenges are among the biggest problems faced by freelancers and small businesses.
Thank you Sandip that`s the problem, and when I do international trade, I don`t really know which jurisdiction should apply. In this Virtual Assistant Agreement, the parties agree on the terms of the relationship between them, including the work that the Virtual Assistant will actually perform for the Customer. In the event that employment is terminated early due to inadequate performance as determined solely by the Client, a partial payment for completed services may be withheld and the Virtual Assistant will be required to complete said work adequately before any remaining payment is issued.
Because a contract sets parameters around the VAs workload and deliverables, each party knows what to expect from the other.
]p:oBn_(/hl$CXH +Ssuq;Z+ Q qH +O?vW ? j? /Qyh+-G~? The Client agrees to pay his/her virtual assistant this money via _____________, in accordance with a schedule detailed in the attached payment schedule. The Client will compensate the Virtual Assistant with an hourly rate of $______. The dates of preparation and signature of the contract must also be indicated. Adjust the wording to suit your particular situation. Its easy to think, Oh, I know this person. Its time to put together your first virtual assistant contract. This allows you to free yourself from a range of traditional employer burdens, such as payroll taxes and benefits. The undersigned parties agree to abide by the provisions set forth below: _______________________________ (the Virtual Assistant) will provide services related to ________________________ via electronic transmission, and will strictly adhere to directives outlined by _____________________________ (the Client). 2022 Muscle Equipt. Without these details, it becomes difficult to know if the VA or the client has not done their part. In fact, they could disappear and refuse to pay you for your time, and theres nothing you can do about it. Youre going to LOVE it. Get inside my FREE legal class to learn about business bank accounts, sole proprietor v. LLC, business insurance, contractors v. employees and more! Check out our latest open jobs. Thats why it is important to ensure that your virtual assistant contract has provisions for how the termination will happen. ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? This Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions of the work to be performed under the Virtual Assistant Contract. *This post may contain affiliate links. Registered and Licensed in the USA, State of Maryland #W15441447, VA Tips: 15+ Free (and Awesome!) Join the 20four7VA team today! ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? No matter WHAT you decide for your own business, every contract engaging a virtual assistant should include specific payment terms. Please try a different search. They are often the ones who tend to delay payments. As you are creating or revising your contract as a Virtual Assistant, here are five key provisions that should be in EVERY VA contract (no exceptions!). These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The contract should include essential elements such as the scope of the VAs work, deadlines, compensation (including payment schedules), incentives, ownership, intellectual property, confidentiality, termination, data security, penalties, protection from liability, non-compete clause, and dispute resolution, among other things. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); New Call Center Services - Level Up Your Virtual Team Now! $4%&'()*56789:CDEFGHIJSTUVWXYZcdefghijstuvwxyz ? It should also describe what will happen if the client fails to pay you on the agreed-upon schedule. Want to achieve work-life balance while earning a steady income? Tired of dealing with late payments and errant clients? ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? They can also add a non-compete clause that would prevent them from starting a competing business within a certain period of time (often 2 years). ?" _S \W$ZE 8G^ _3H ( Q q>OgkEq_j? /Q ? W}zg|" _-G~? Get a specific list of your tasks so you can ensure your performance.