If you had the choice to run your business from anywhere at any time, would you? The ever-increasing and changing dynamic of the digital age is seeing many businesses, particularly small or start-up ventures, favour the concept of a virtual office as a way of operating their business. A virtual office can eliminate the need for office space while providing businesses with plenty of options and opportunities to save on costs. There’s also added benefits including being more easily accessible or searchable through an online Website Link. So, once you have made that first step and moved your business into the virtual office world, it’s time to make the most of it.
First thing’s first, ensure your virtual office works for you and your business. Yes, essentially this step should come up long before you start your virtual office. But you should also continue to consult your business plan in the early days to ensure you’re still on the right track.
Build your online presence
These days the majority of consumers turn to the world wide web to find just about anything, so it’s essential that you have an online presence. A virtual office both offers and provides you with a real-world address so make sure you utilise its full potential and put your business on show.
Hire a Virtual Assistant
It might seem counterintuitive to bring a staff member into the mix when you don’t necessarily have an “office”. But you might also find you need someone on hand to take care of phone calls, mail, printing or any other tasks so take some of the workload off your plate and hire a virtual assistant. This will free up more of your time to focus on the business itself, marketing or even your team.
Choosing the right team
Having a remote team can have a series of benefits and disadvantages depending on your business type and model. Although a virtual office offers a flexible working environment, it’s important to remember you can’t actually see your team working as you would in a normal office environment. Therefore, it’s important you hire the right people for your team. Factor in experience, work ethic and even their ability to work independently. Regular contact then becomes vital to ensure your team feel valued and also so you know work is being done. If necessary, consider scheduling regular meet ups, where appropriate, to help get to know your team, build morale and set working goals.
Communication
With a change in your business dynamic communication becomes even more important, especially if there is little to no face time. Consider how it would be best to communicate with your team and prospective clients, whether it be software, app tools, phones, message services and how you can set up your virtual office accordingly. Ensure that communication is effective and respond quickly to queries or messages to avoid misinterpretation or confusion and keep your business and team running on track.
Offer something different
The best way to get noticed is to stand out from the crowd. What is going to set you apart from everyone else out there? Consider your setup, how you interact with your staff, how you market yourself or even the way you communicate with your clients. Be unique and personal for that extra touch.
You could consider a Virtual office in London by yourvirtualofficelondon.co.uk to expand your business and establish a professional presence. As with any other business venture, it’s important to remember you get out of the business what you put in.
A virtual office is definitely a different dimension to an in-person office and will likely operate in a different manner. Focus on your business plan, always be prepared for changes or hurdles and remember to keep an open mind.