How to get a virtual address
By Henry Waqatairewa
A virtual address is a convenient solution for businesses that need a professional address without the cost and maintenance of a physical office. By setting up a virtual office, businesses can establish credibility and save on expenses like rent and utilities while also having their mail taken care of. Furthermore, virtual addresses offer flexibility, allowing businesses to expand into new markets without the need for a physical office in each location. However, before choosing a virtual address, it's essential to research available options and determine which ones are suitable for your business.
Step 1 – Establish your business needs
Before you begin your search for a virtual address provider consider first if your business needs an business address, mail forwarding service, call handling or meeting room access while also considering you budget. It’s also important to note, not all addresses are equal because certain providers will have prestige locations in iconic buildings while others will have more basic and cheaper options.
Step 2 - Research
Once you know your business needs, research virtual address providers in your desired location. There are several office providers which have virtual address solutions that vary depending on your location and it’s important to check online reviews, compare pricing, perks and benefits, whilst looking for providers with a good reputation.
If you’re in a major city like Sydney you’ll find larger providers such as Servcorp and others are also available. Large providers will have locations both domestic and internationally which is important if your business is looking to expand. Whereas smaller providers will specialise in the domestic market.
All providers mentioned will offer services such as an address, mail forwarding, no lock-in contracts or flexible term options such as monthly, 6 months and 12 months which allows businesses to scale up or down if needed. However, the main point of differences will be the location and amenities such as coworking facility usage, landline numbers, gyms, meeting rooms, I.T support and a receptionist for call and mail handling services and more.
Step 3 – Choose your provider
Select a virtual address provider that meets your business needs and budget. When choosing a provider make sure they offer the services you require and have a good track record. Even though the business address is virtual, it’s best practice to book a tour at your provider’s facility to get a greater sense of the services you are signing up for. You should also consider the unique perks and benefits offered by each service provider, along with their range of products, including serviced offices, virtual office packages, coworking spaces, and meeting room facilities. Gaining insight into these offerings can be valuable as your business grows and expands.
Find the right virtual address for your business
Step 4 – Sign up with provider
Sign up for a virtual business address and provide any require information such as business registration, tax, payment information and other identification documents. You can either sign up online, by booking a tour, calling or emailing the service provider.
Step 5 - Use Virtual Address
Once you virtual address is set up, use it on your website, business cards and other marketing materials for your business. Redirect all your mail and packages to the new address utilise any other perks that are provided such as using the meeting room facilities to close a new deal or discuss important business objectives with your team.
Step 6 – Review your virtual address provider
Regularly review your service with your virtual address provider and determine whether they are meeting your business needs. You may need access to more services and potentially upgrade to a coworking or serviced office as your business and team grows.
Conclusion
In conclusion on how to get a virtual address setup – a virtual address is an excellent way for your business to establish a professional presence without absorbing the cost and maintenance of physical office space. To get a virtual address, you should first establish your business needs, research providers, choose the best provider that meets their needs and budget, sign up, and use their new virtual address. Additionally, you should regularly review their virtual address provider to ensure they are aligned with your business requirements and consider upgrading to a coworking or serviced office facility as your business grows. By following these steps, your business can save on costs while still maintaining a professional presence and expanding your reach.