The concept of “the office” is rapidly losing ground, as a growing numbers of employers and workers opt for flexible working practices. For many employees, work is becoming something they do, rather than somewhere they go. In some cases, the office, with its many distractions, frequent meetings, and office politics, is actually the worst place to get any work done. However, a home-based employee may encounter a few distractions of his own—a barking dog or even worse, a crying child. How then, can companies with employees working out of their homes maintain a polished and professional image? Executive suites that traditionally cater to small space users have provided a part-time option for clients who don’t need office space, but want to maintain a corporate image. The answer to this question for more and more employers and their home-office staff is to maintain a “Virtual Office” or “Corporate Identity” office.

The Virtual Office, once more commonly known as Corporate Identity, gives the illusion of a corporate office or headquarters by providing clients with a business address, telephone number, fax access, receptionist services and mail receipt. Virtual Office clients also have access to conference/meeting rooms and “day offices” either as part of an inclusive package or on a per hour basis. The latest technology allows client calls to be connected instantly. Additionally, companies can benefit from having a virtual receptionist/secretary who provides a professional image, but at a fraction of the cost of hiring full-time staff.

It’s not just professionals who are enjoying the virtues of virtuality. For the expanding business, virtual offices can enable low cost and controlled expansion. Some businesses may “test” a particular market area with a virtual office initially and later, if successful, lease conventional office space. Catherine Price, President and Owner of two full-service executive suites in the Orlando market, has been successful in marketing Virtual Office Programs. “What it allows the client is the ultimate in flexibility” says Price, “clients get the corporate image and services they require all for under Three Hundred Dollars a month.”