If you are shopping around for business center services you are no doubt coming across a variety of different plans, options and pricing structures. This may be a bit confusing as you conduct your search because you aren’t sure what option will best fit your business. Should you get a full service package? Will a virtual address be enough of a business presence for you?
Rather than put off the decision any longer, here is a quick guide to the major factors that should go into your decision of what type of business center space to get. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you determine which type of plan is right for you.
Is my business entirely virtual or do I need a meeting place?
This is a big determining factor in the type of business center set up that will serve your needs. Many businesses only need mail service. This means having a professional business address where packages and letters can be received. All of the business mail to arrive at the business center will be collected and forwarded to your home address. This is a good solution if you don’t anticipate meeting with clients on a regular basis, or if you plan on meeting with them at their location. However, if you need a place to do presentations or meet with clients in a professional setting, you’ll need a plan that includes some type of meeting room usage. For example, if you live in the Mountain View area, having Palo Alto Executive Suite space can allow you to meet with clients in a professional and nearby setting.
How am I handling business calls?
Offering the right kind of phone support to your customers is important. When it comes to selecting the right business center plan, you need to consider your current business phone setup and whether or not it’s meeting your needs. If your calls are going to your home office or your cell phone, are you able to answer professionally and reliably? Depending on the nature of your business, it may be better to obtain a business office package that includes phone service. This can include a local phone number and voicemail box, personalized call answering as well as call forwarding. Having your phone support handled by a professional receptionist can do a lot for the prestige of your business, as well as free up your time so that you can focus on money-making areas of your business.
What type of business support services do I need?
The nature of your business will determine how many support services that you need. For example, do you need to have access to a copy machine while you’re working in the business center? Will you need access to wireless Internet? These are important considerations when choosing the right business center package. While many executive suites will offer a-la-carte services, keep in mind that a-la-carte options are always more expensive than when they are included in your package. With an honest assessment of your needs, you should be able to find a package that fits your business and cuts the total overhead cost of your business.
Courtney Ramirez
Research Analyst, Pacific Business Centers (rebranded as Pacific Workplaces)
Courtney’s research for Pacific Workplaces focuses on tracking emerging business trends and best practices – with an emphasis on how they affect business operations, technology, and office space infrastructure