An Office Without The Office

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have an office in Rockefeller Center but, with the help of a few cards up your sleeve, the option is well within anyone’s reach. For a while now, the idea of a “Virtual Office” has been beloved by freelancers and con-artists alike thanks to its ability to throw a veil of prestige over a very garage-based operation.

Much like a time share for businesses, a virtual office provides you with a top location in one of the world’s greatest cities along with a set amount of time that you’re allowed to utilize your space per day, month, and year. When you’re away, the office is still your “office.” A receptionist answers the phone and says whatever you’d like him or her to say before redirecting the call to your home or mobile phone. You can even have packages mailed to your location of wonders; they’ll later be redirected to another address as prescribed by you.

Of course, while a virtual office isn’t necessarily cheap, it’s much cheaper than it would be to actually rent or own an office in one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Generally, the rate falls between $200-$400 per month for well-known addresses, but can easily fluctuate depending on a number of factors.

Some companies offer more features than others, with a few intriguing options that even allow you to have your name engraved in the building’s directory - a plus for anyone with potential office guests in the near future. Like any other purchase, it’s probably a good idea to shop around for your virtual office before diving in head first. You may be able to squeeze out a trial period or extra features depending on the location and the company.

Whether you’re looking to give your music blog the appearance of a rising media powerhouse or simply trying to boost the image of your company in a new market, a virtual office may be just what you need to get the job one. Though they’ve been around for quite some time now, chances are that you don’t really know that much about them unless you already have one. With the growing number of options, however, prices have become friendlier to those without unlimited bank accounts. While they’re far from cheap, the sheer possibilities that they’re able to present are nearly endless; maybe its time to get a new office (without the office, of course).