A virtual office is just that, an office that primarily exists virtually. It is the feel and look of a professional office building without all of the expenses and problems that come with it. This innovative idea has shown to be very beneficial for smaller, up-and-coming companies, or for companies that simply don't need an office to operate. It costs much less than renting space, buying equipment and hiring a secretary.

Virtual office businesses use shared office services. In other words, they use one building that houses multiple companies to use as their virtual office. Usually, these office services include a business address, mail and courier services, fax services, phone and answering services as well as web-hosting services and meeting and conference facilities. Some virtual offices also offer other services such as corporate secretarial services, accounting services or even legal services.

Many companies look to use a virtual office because it is not only cost effective but it also gives the air of professionalism to a company that a home office cannot. Instead of meeting clients at restaurants and the like, a virtual office usually supplies meeting room to its businesses that can be scheduled for client and business meetings. These are called as-needed workspaces. For instance, if you are having a company meeting or a training session, you will be able to rent out a conference or training room. Some virtual offices also have smaller offices within their larger virtual office for your employees or yourself if you decide you need a constant workstation.

Some virtual offices also have the capabilities to offer video conferencing. This way you can show up at your office meeting and have a video conference with customers or other employees. This can be beneficial if customers or potential customers don't have the regular opportunity to make it to your office. You can conduct a video conference without needing to invest in all of the expensive equipment it requires.

Virtual offices also offer complete phone and answering services. This means that you can have your own company number that can be forwarded to your cell phone or to a voicemail service. Phone calls can also be answered by a professional receptionist at the virtual office that knows your company and can take messages or screen and transfer calls. After your work day is finished, phone calls can be transferred to your voice mail which you can continuously check. This way, customers can't keep calling you late into the evening but if something important comes up, you will be aware of it. Some companies also have a feature that allows you to check your messages online.

If your company has people that are mobile, then a virtual office may be the perfect thing for you. It offers everything that a conventional office does, except you don't have the costly investment in space, equipment and personnel. You use what you need, when you need it.