Need a local business address without a physical workspace? Virtual mailing addresses are the solution.
Whether you’re looking for mail handling and other admin support, or want to expand your business presence in a new market, virtual mailing addresses are a cost-effective option.
Here we’ll explore various digital mailbox services, how to set up a virtual address through a coworking space, and the key benefits for professionals.
What is a Virtual Mailing Address? Professional and Cost-Effective Administrative Support
Virtual mailing addresses offer a credible office address you can connect to your business, even if you don’t have a physical workspace there.
Coworking spaces often offer full suites of virtual office services. For example, at Launch Workplaces, we offer membership tiers with services like:
- Virtual mailing address
- Mail and package handling
- Mail-forwarding
- Phone answering, voicemail, and call forwarding services
- On-demand office and meeting-room services
These services are offered on a flexible monthly contract, with options to upgrade to part-time private office access, day office access, or other services you may need as your business grows.
When deciding between coworking vs. virtual office, it’s important to note that the latter typically appeals to professionals who need administrative support in a local area without maintaining a physical address.
In contrast, professionals who want to make more in-person connections or work in a productive environment may benefit more from a full coworking membership, private office, or team suite in a coworking space.
5 Benefits of a Virtual Mailing Address for Remote Professionals
Working remotely or building an online business doesn’t mean you need to forgo the benefits of a brick-and-mortar office space. With a virtual mailing address, you can reap the benefits of a real street address without paying to inhabit the space.
Virtual mailing addresses offer flexible solutions for a wide variety of remote professionals. Here are some common use cases:
- An international or out-of-state company uses digital mailbox services to boost its local presence.
- An independent professional requires administrative support to manage their mail and phone calls.
- A remote team occasionally requires on-demand meeting or conference space.
- An entrepreneur or freelancer wants to boost their professional image with a dedicated phone number or address.
- Although there are different reasons to use a virtual mailing address may be different, the benefits are the same.
1. Save Money
If you only require an address to accept mail, using a virtual mailing address is much cheaper than renting office space. You’re paying for what you need—an address and other key virtual office services like phone answering, voicemail, and call forwarding—and don’t need to overspend on a workspace you don’t want.
And if you do need somewhere to work, you can take advantage of flexible coworking options that don’t lock you into an expensive, rigid contract.
2. Increase Your Local Presence
Tying your remote or digital business to a physical street address helps establish a local presence in a city or location. It also provides a level of credibility.
When you give out your address or post it on your website, Google Business Profile, or social media, customers become aware that you offer services in that area.
This is particularly important for companies that want to establish “headquarters” in a new city, or remote professionals who, for example, live in the suburbs but want to interact with clientele downtown.
Before signing up for a virtual mailing address, it’s important to note that there are a few address requirements to create your Google Business Profile:
- Must specify the exact address like suite numbers, floors, and building numbers; cannot include information like nearby landmarks or cross-streets.
- Co-working spaces can be listed as your business address if you have clear signage, are represented by staff during standard business hours, and can accept customers during business hours.
If you want to make a Google Business profile, your virtual mailing address needs to meet these conditions and you’ll need to also maintain a physical presence (i.e., a private office in a coworking space).
However, if you just want a professional, real street address to give to customers and clients without listing your business on Google, you do not need to maintain a physical presence.
3. Gain Consumer Trust
Having a local presence is important for building consumer trust. Knowing that you operate in that location—and have a physical address to prove it—you’re showing them that you cater to their specific demographic.
Further, a local street address keeps postage fees and delivery times to a minimum, inspiring consumer trust and confidence in your brand.
4. Boost Professional Image
Using a personal home address to manage customer mail does not project a professional image—maintaining a virtual mailing address in a reputable, top-tier building does.
If you list your business with us at Launch Workplaces, you can have a mailing address in vibrant business areas like Glover Park or Navy Yard in Washington, DC, among our other desirable locations. Your presence in these areas elevates your business’ reputation.
Using phone answering, voicemail, and call forwarding services is also a key way to boost professional image. These allow customers to easily get in touch with you and, phone answering in particular, creates a professional appearance.
5. Manage Mail Efficiently
The last key benefit of having a virtual mailing address and using digital mailbox solutions is that you can manage your mail efficiently. Since your mail is collected and organized on your behalf, you can stay on top of important documents or packages and ensure things are effectively managed.
Virtual office services that also include phone services can be an administrative extension of your team. This is particularly useful to solopreneurs or other independent professionals who want some extra help.
If you’re looking for a professional workspace to elevate your business operations, you’ll find it at Launch. Book a tour of your local Launch Workplaces today.
