According to a year-end 2010 financial study compiled by the Office Business Center Association International (OBCAI) - the leading international, non-profit, trade association representing office business center owners and operators - businesses are using Virtual Offices more than ever before as a means to help them focus their efforts on operating, and indeed prevail, in the current economy.
The OBCAI financial study indicates a significant acceleration in virtual office growth in 2009, to 18.3% from 7.8% in 2008. This uptick reflects the impact of the late 2007 recession on businesses, a shift in workplace habits and preferences, as well as the growth of inexpensive enabling technologies. According to virtual working statistics provided by Davinci Virtual Office Solutions - a provider of quality virtual support solutions for businesses worldwide and a network partner of American Executive Centers - more than two-thirds of U.S. workers are engaged in some virtual work, 46% engage in virtual work at least once a week and 14% do so daily. The vast majority (91%) agree that virtual work saves their companies time and money!
For those who are not familiar with the Virtual Office, the Virtual Office provides entrepreneurs everything necessary to run a business in a professional setting, including a permanent mailing address, phone number and call answering, coupled with on-demand meeting rooms, administrative support and business services. These business necessities are offered at a fraction of the cost of a full-time office - without compromising image or productivity.
Who Uses a Virtual Office?
For years virtual office clients were typically small companies needing a professional front face to appear larger with a business address and receptionist to answer their calls. However, after the economic downturn the concept's appeal gained ground for business professionals. While the virtual office concept is nothing new, its current application is. Today, the virtual office is the workplace of choice for a number of forward-thinking business people. This includes:
- Start-ups
- Sole practicing professionals and attorneys
- Companies testing new markets
- Businesses looking to reduce costs and align their workplace with business needs
- Mobile workers
- Home-based businesses in need of leveraging their professional image and network.
With thousands of locations to choose from, a business person can have an address close to home and clients, or in a new market. The greatest benefit, especially in the current market environment, is that there is zero out-of- pocket expense and no risk or variable costs involved, including administrative support that's flexible with business needs.
The Virtual Office has proven to be the perfect office solution for innovative businesses seeking a competitive advantage to launch companies, test new markets and create new beginnings.