For many years now there has been a marked divide in the way that people consider certain occupations. Many carry a much better reputation than others and are often perceived as being more desirable career options. Office jobs, even unqualified or menial ones are those which are quite often held in higher regard than “trade” jobs such as plumbing, plastering and one of the reasons behind this is the lack of professional flair which many tradespeople have. This rather unfair public perception often has little to do with the quality of the work which is being done nor any indication of the studying, qualifications or expertise of the particular tradesperson and often has more to do with the stereotype of tradespeople which exists in this country.
Make an Impression
For these businesses to cement a better reputation they are often urged to think in the same way as big businesses and corporations typically would and even though small touches such as uniforms or business stationary might seem insignificant it is these which are often remembered. A further consideration for many small businesses is whether to have an office or business address.
Many tradespeople and those who would typically work from home who would often have little or no need for a full time office space are beginning to see the damage that not having a dedicated business address can do to their reputation and in wishing to set themselves above their competitors in terms of professional standards, more and more are using the services of a virtual address.
A virtual address is one which is often based in a prestigious or city centre location and is typically large, impressive looking and aesthetically pleasing. The business owner or trader, once a rental agreement has been put into place, may then state the address as their business address giving them the kudos from their clients or customers.
Given the low costs which are typically associated with a virtual address in comparison with a full time base it is little wonder that many new businesses are using them as a way of testing the market for their business, to see how it performs within the local market and to assess how the business copes with the cost of maintaining an office and staff prior to committing to a lengthy rental agreement and recruiting permanent personnel which a permanent and full time office would entail.
Given the comparatively low costs which are involved in a virtual address as well as the flexible nature they also provide a financially viable solution for many charities and non-profit organisations.
The more flexible nature and contracting abilities that a virtual address can provide are also making them an attractive prospect for foreign businesses that require a base for their delegates or employees. As an example, many American based corporations use a virtual address as a base for their personnel who might be required to oversee work on a project or negotiate terms of a contract with a locally based company. Having a virtual address where the employee can be contacted and can have documents sent can provide them with an “office away from office” and ensure that they maintain their professional approach throughout their stay and ensures they enjoy the convenience of a dedicated working space rather than preparing for meetings from a hotel room or hired conference centre.