Written by Liam Murphy | 11 February 2010

Virtual Offices is a relatively new concept which is enabled through modern technology allowing companies to keep costs down without affecting public perception of their business and their brand. Virtual Offices have also allowed small start-ups to appear as though they are a big business, which gives the small business owner a helping hand in starting their company and making it successful.

1. Low Cost

One of the greatest benefits of using a virtual office is the low-cost nature of the service. In a time when real estate costs are soaring, a virtual office gives an alternative allowing a company to have a prime address in the CBD without any of the overheads and costs.

2. Prestigious Address

The ability to have a prestigious address leads onto a second benefit, which is the perception that your company isn't just a one horse show and has the funds to be located at a great address. Client's will perceive that your company is a highly successful business and will be more likely to want to do business with you.

3. Great First Impressions

In addition to this, you will most likely get some other services like a phone number and a receptionist with your virtual office. Having a well-spoken and professional receptionist answer your calls will give a good first impression and enhance your company image. Also, a local phone number (rather than a cellphone) will also be looked upon favorably.

4. Flexibility

As a business owner, you also benefit from having much more flexibility with a virtual office than if you had traditional office space. You can leave the call answering and admin work to your virtual receptionist and virtual assistant and focus on your sales, clients and growing your business - all with the assurance that your enquiries are still being handled.

5. Tap into New Markets

One additional benefit that a virtual office will provide you is the ability for your company to appear local even if you're actually located overseas, thus giving you access to new markets. Different time zones, expense of setup and communications are no longer barriers for you to have a local phone number, office address and even staff without too much investment. By providing a local number for clients to call you on, it will make it easier for them to contact you and do business with you.

6. Short Term Leases

A final benefit is that with your virtual office, you are not usually tied into a long-term lease. With just one month's notice, you are able to cancel your virtual office giving you the peace of mind and flexibility to make your business perform effectively.