An increasing number of mompreneurs are choosing to ditch the 9-5 in favor of starting their own business from home. There’s no denying that having a home business as a parent comes with its advantages – the zero commute, ability to more easily juggle childcare and the reduced office costs are all definitely a bonus. But there’s one thing a home business can have against it and that is its address. For some home businesses having a residential address associated with it can diminish its reputation and could even put off potential clients which is where a virtual office comes in.
A virtual office, sometimes also called a virtual headquarters, allows a business to have a registered address somewhere other than where it is actually based, and many come with a set of additional benefits.
Privacy
One thing that we all want to protect these days is our privacy. Who wants to put their home address on a website or business card? A virtual home address gives business owners the comfort of knowing that their personal information, like their address, is separate from their business.
To protect your phone number, you can use Google Voice for free!
Improved credibility
Although we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover so many people still do, and in the world of business your address can make a big impression. A virtual office enables your home business, no matter how small, to have an address in a reputable location such as in a major capital city.
More cost-effective
The cost of renting an office space or premises in a major city just to maintain professionalism and credibility is often staggering. A virtual office, on the other hand, is a much more affordable alternative, offering you all the benefits without the hefty price tag.
No long term commitments
Unlike office rental agreements that are often renewed on an annual basis, virtual offices are rented on an ad-hoc or monthly basis, making it much easier to be in Miami today and New York tomorrow. You would be able to simply pay for what you want instead of unnecessary break-clause fees or renting space you no longer need.
Answering services
Another great benefit offered by many virtual office providers is a telephone answering service, effectively acting as your own receptionist. As a mompreneur, answering cold calls and screening potential clients from the salesman undoubtedly takes up an unnecessary amount of your time, so let someone else do the hard work for you, ensuring you only speak to the people you need and want to speak with.
Expand globally at the touch of a button
Need an office in the UK, China or Brazil? A virtual office enables you to have a registered office address in a country abroad without the need to even have employees living there, saving you money whilst maintaining a global image.
Increase your employee satisfaction
If you’re at the stage where you employ people within your business, then a virtual office can help to keep them happy too by enabling them to work from home, reduce their commute time and better control their work-life balance.
Employees who work from home are often less stressed and more productive, ultimately reducing your employee turnover and helping you to build a happy and healthy employee culture.
