Since virtual offices are the newest innovation for small to medium sized businesses we have decided to share some info we found during our recent research. Our today study approaches the Australian continent and is based on a Melbourne survey. If your business is anywhere else in the world and you have dreamed of breaking into a new local market, consider signing up for a virtual office in Melbourne. It opens you to all of Australia.

Arecent survey of small and midsized businesses regarding virtual offices showed that the most desirable feature is flexibility, at 61%, followed by savings, at 54%. Third and fourth places were having the staff some other location, 42%, and reduction of time, cost and pollution commuting, 41%, respectively.

60% of all people surveyed said they use the virtual office mainly to increase their business in customers eyes. 59% claimed that they feel they are more efficient using a virtual office over a traditional one. Nearly half of them revealed that their savings amount are more than $1000 monthly, mostly on rent, phone services, and IT. 8% are saving much more than $3,000 monthly, thats not bad right?

Almost 66% said they maintain a local phone number to appeal to local clients, an equal number indicating they also maintain a toll free number. This shows that those using virtual offices tend to direct their efforts not only at local clients, but also at those outside their areas.

The most important component of a virtual office is the virtual phone secretary or receptionist. These people are trained in your company’s business. They have the highest professionalism, not giving your clients any clue that it is not your business. Also, any call may be forwarded to you, in any method you would like. You can focus on what you do best, while your calls are being handled.

Your appointments can be managed by them as well, if you prefer. You save the money of having to staff each individual personally, but you gain all the advantages. If you require 24-hour phone staffing that is a possibility. Consider also, that your company information will be accurately and professional handled as the virtual office staff interface with your clients and potential clients. Having calls routed, of course, is a major benefit to many business professionals.

Having a virtual office conserves space, reducing rental fees, but it also prevents you from having to pay health insurance, vacation, sick leave, payroll and record keeping. These savings, likewise empower your business for further expansion, which may otherwise be hard to come by.

A prestigious address, like a virtual office in Melbourne would instantly increase the value of your products and services. Credibility is the chief contribution of a better address. This in turn lends itself to a competitive edge in your market.