As you begin your virtual office search you may find yourself with several options. If you are in major metropolitan area this is definitely the case. Even if you only have one company to choose from it’s best to see if it will work for you. No need wasting time and money on a company that isn’t a good fit. Here my insider tips to selecting a virtual office.
1. What is the limit on the total number of calls per month you can receive with being charged additional fees? The virtual office I used did have a monthly call limit. However, I found didn’t charge me when I exceeded it. I was suppose to be charged $310 per month for up to 180 calls. This of course was a benefit to me. Naturally you can’t rely on this so find out if the call limit fits your scenario. Also note that lots of virtual office companies start from $50 per month. My fee included additional services.
2. Will they let you talk to few current customers? Talk to one or two current clients and get a feel for the culture. Most virtual office don’t require a long term contract though they may have incentives to sign up long term. Definitely avoid any commitment for a few months.
3. Are there at least 2 receptionists at the front desk? This is important since virtual office services big selling point is that there is consistent phone coverage. Is this crucial for your business? What if there is only 1 receptionist and she needs to a take a bathroom break? However if this isn’t critical to you then consider the other benefits to the office. My best experience with a virtual office company was run with only 1 receptionist who took no real “breaks” throughout the day. Occasionally I missed a call when she went to the ladies room but the company had such friendly owners and the energy was great. Which leads to another point, when you take a tour do you enjoy the energy of the office? Remember these folks will technically be your coworkers of sorts. Yes, there is turn over but the basic ambiance tends to remain the same.
4. How long is the virtual office companies current lease? Remember that when the lease is up they may move and this can wreck havoc on your business since this would be your business address.
5. Is there really a coffee service? If this is really important to you then ask a current client if you get it. I have had experience where there is no coffee “service” per say. Just a can of coffee for you to make yourself.
6. Does the Virtual Office company have their own company name and signage displayed around the office? Remember that this is suppose to be your office. I have seen a few major virtual office franchises that do this and you need to decide if this affects your brand. I personally don’t like this at all. I prefer to signage or promotional material from the virtual office company anywhere in the office. Consider if this is important to you before signing on with a company.
I’ve made a neat checklist for you take with you when touring a virtual office. Download or print it out and take it with you. This way you won’t forget anything and will have all your thoughts in one place!