The easy answer to the headline is yes, a virtual office is an excellent investment for start-up businesses and will make your life just a bit easier. But there are many reasons why that’s the case.
It’s affordable
Renting an office can be quite pricey, and it’s often unnecessary when first starting a business. If you’re the only employee, why do you need a dedicated office just to do your work? Even if you have a few employees, an office may not be necessary if most of your work is done online. Spare yourself the commitment (and inherent risk) of signing a lease, and instead rent a virtual office at a fraction of the cost.
It’s easy, and there’s no long-term commitment
Many virtual offices allow for short or even month-to-month agreements. After all, if you don’t have to move stuff in or out, it’s easy to change clients. Many office buildings are full of virtual offices, so the proprietor knows exactly what you need and how to provide it for you.
It suits your needs, no matter how simple or complicated
Do you just need somewhere to send packages where you know they’ll be safely and properly received? A virtual office can do that. Do you also need someone to answer the phone and take messages? A virtual receptionist will cover that. Do you need both of those things, plus some office space to use a couple of times a week? There’s a virtual office for that, too. You bring the small business problem, and the virtual office can provide the solution.
Keep hiring expenses down
When starting a new business, costs can escalate very quickly, and one thing that’s always expensive is hiring new employees. Thanks to virtual receptionists, you basically get a new employee without having to worry about actually hiring them. A skilled, dependable virtual receptionist will answer your calls and set your appointments, all while still being an employee of the office owner.
It gives you credibility and professionalism
What kind of public face do you want for your business? Do you want your clients to have to meet you at a public restaurant? Should your business address be on a cul-de-sac in the suburbs? First impressions are absolutely critical, especially in the early stages of a new business. A virtual office will allow you to meet your clients in a nice, fully furnished conference room, and your business will be associated with a professional address. If appearances are a major concern for you, there are plenty of virtual offices available in high-profile areas, such as downtown San Francisco.
Starting a business is a gamble, and can be very stressful, but a virtual office can eliminate some of the worry. Rent a virtual office, and you can guarantee a first-rate public face for your business and a qualified assistant to help get the ball rolling. It’s a “virtual” no-brainer.
