Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you want to test new markets before renting shared office space or setting up a new location for your business?
• Are you forming a new business startup and looking for ways to conserve resources?
• Does your business model fit well with a virtual (online) model, where most of your business is conducted through a website or over the telephone?

If you answered yes to one or more of the above questions, then a virtual office could be the perfect solution for you.

Where Do You Work with a Virtual Office Solution?

Based upon the package and options you choose, a virtual office solution can allow you to have a physical address to receive mail, a phone number for clients to call, and virtual admin support in a specific location within the city where you want to establish a presence, like here in Toronto. Essentially, you work wherever you choose, like from a home office, but rather than have customers use your home address or home phone for communications, they would send mail to or call your virtual office instead.

Is There Any Special Software Required?

For the most part, you should already have different software and apps you use to run your business including:

• Email Address
• Word Processing App
• Internet Browser
• Anti-virus/malware App
• PDF Document Reader
• Database/Spreadsheet App
• Presentation App
• Image/Graphics Editing Tools
• Finance Tracking App

Other than the apps and software you need to run your business, there is no other special software required.

What Other Office Equipment/Devices Are Needed?

Other than deciding where you want to work, you should have a portable surge protector you use whenever you plug into electrical outlets. You should also have a reliable internet provider so you can connect easily online while at home and on the road. The only other vital office device you need is a smartphone to make and receive phone calls, as well as take care of many office-related tasks without having to get out your laptop.

How Do You Communicate in a Virtual Office Environment?

The methods of communications you will use are email, instant/text messaging, and telephone calls. In many cases, the primary methods tend to be through email or instant/text messaging. You may also prefer using Facetime, Skype, or a similar app when you want to see the person you are communicating with face-to-face.

What If Clients Want to Meet in Person?

In certain cases, you will have clients that want to meet in person. Traveling to their location or inviting them to your home is not always the most ideal option. A perfect solution is to rent a meeting room or event space, available through your virtual office provider, which is also reflective of your virtual office address and location.

To learn more about Toronto virtual office packages for your business or other shared office rental solutions, please feel free to contact iQ Office Suites at 416.238.1111 today!