What is a Virtual Office?
Published Sept 12, 2021
Since the pandemic, professional business owners may have found working from home or online more suitable for them. Remote work has been the norm, so virtual offices became popular for small businesses. A virtual office provides businesses the benefits and services of a traditional office without having a lease or actual space. Moreover, people still work from home, but they have a virtual address.
This service provides a receptionist answering client calls and a meeting room that will make your business look professional. In addition, virtual offices offer telephone answering and voicemail services, so you can manage incoming calls without giving your local phone number. They might also provide envelope opening and scanning services to scan your post mails and email them directly to you.
All of the services mentioned above may or may not be available depending on virtual office providers. We’ve already tackled the services of virtual offices but wait; there’s more. Below are the benefits of having a virtual office.
Benefits of a Virtual Office
Cost
Renting their own office and employing staff is probably overwhelming for the budget of small businesses. A traditional office with a receptionist would cost them more than they can afford. With virtual offices, you pay a lot less with the same benefits. A plus point because you can work in the comfort of your own home without giving away your home address.
Time
As a small business, you are in charge of almost all the responsibilities and tasks in your business. With all the assignments you have, you might end up getting stressed and overworked all the time. A virtual office removes tasks off your plate, like managing your workspace and emails. This gives you more time to unwind or focus on growing your business.
Comfort & Environment
Tired of always meeting clients in a public space? You can meet clients in meeting or conference rooms that are aesthetically pleasing in virtual offices. Meeting rooms are much more comfortable and professional than meeting your client in a public place.
If you want to boost your productivity or inspiration, you can go to your virtual office provider and ask for a place to work for the day. The pleasing environment of offices gives employees the needed inspiration to keep them going. Additionally, business lounges are a plus!
Professional Image
If you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, start-up, or small business owner, you probably still don’t have the funds that you need to purchase and maintain office space features. Furthermore, you need to focus on growing your brand instead of worrying about office spaces and decorations. Virtual offices give your company or business a professional image and prime location it needs to attract more clients or investors.
Office Location & Convenience
As mentioned above, a virtual office offers a mailing address or mail forwarding services for your business. Having a professional business address in the right place would boost your business’ reputation and brand.
Even when your “virtual” business address is in the city, you can work at your place without the hassle. Also, you can work in your PJs without having to think about your business’ image.
Easy Setup
If you finally want to work in traditional offices, you can still consider virtual offices. You can rent a desk or a private office. With virtual offices, you don’t need to worry about decorating, remodeling, or buying furniture for your dedicated desk space. They already provide all the equipment required for your workspace, and all you have to do is bring your remote team and other necessary equipment.
Gain Connections
A virtual office is filled with business-minded people who might be your next business partner or investor. You can meet a lot of influential people along the way. You will surely gain more connections without having to exert much effort.
Is a virtual office suitable for my business?
Virtual offices are helpful in different business situations. A virtual office is perfect for your business if:
- You just started your business
- You’re running a small business or start-up
- You’re an entrepreneur or freelancer working from home who wants to get the benefit of having an office address and office-related services
- You still don’t have enough funds to purchase a space of your own yet
- You need a mailing address for paychecks, bills, or invoices under your company name
- You want to make your business look professional and legitimate for investors or clients
- You work online but still want or need central office addresses
Virtual offices would make running your business easier in many ways. If all the benefits and services of virtual offices look good to you, I highly recommend your business to sign up for a virtual office.
Conclusion
Having a virtual office will surely make your business look more professional and reliable at a low price. Moreover, it will give your small business the benefits and services that big companies have. There are many virtual office providers available anywhere, and you can look at their dedicated business addresses to see if they have the specific services you require.
Cons of Getting a Virtual Office
While a virtual office may seem like the ultimate deal, it has its disadvantages too.
It’s Not for All Types of Businesses
Not all businesses can benefit from a virtual office.
If your business involves providing services where personal contact is necessary, a virtual office is not for you. Medical clinics, bakeries, restaurants, and barbers shops are examples of such. It’s not advisable for large businesses too.
Is a Virtual Office Right for Your Business?
Now that you know the pros and cons of a virtual office, you’re closer to deciding whether it’s right or not for your business. But first, you need to ask yourself these questions:
- What are your competitors doing?
- Is it possible to do all your operations virtually? Or will you still need an office space?
- Are you ready for a possible overlapping of your personal life with your professional life?
- Can a virtual office set-up sustain your operations in the long-term
The answer to these questions will help you make the best decision for your business.
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About The Author
Krizzia Paolyn is an SEO Specialist and holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She started her professional career as a writer for various digital magazines and renowned publications. It has always been her passion to share her voice, and at the same time, to encourage other people to speak up.