Do you need a Business address & Phone
Having a business address is very important when running a business. Whether you work online or not. Not only does it show professionalism but you need an address for customers to return items to (if you are selling physical products).
If you do not have the funds right now, don't worry too much. This is only really needed for returns of if your registering your business at companies house, but for the meantime a residential address is fine, until you can afford a business one.
When ready there are a few options for you.
Doing a simple google search for a virtual business address will bring up a wealth of information for you to pick from.
We have hand pick some sites which have worked well for us, can be used as registered business addresses with companies house, are competitively priced and that we continue to use today.
(When picking a company address make sure that the address can be used with Companies House as a registered address - you will need this service when you register your business for tax purposes).
Can be found in most major cities. The benefit about this company (dependant on the premises) is that you actually have a mailbox that you are given a key for and can pick up your mail yourself. You can rent a mailbox from 3, 6, 12 months and 2 and 5 years with prices starting from £38 per month.
This site offers virtual addresses in the City of London, Central London, Dublin and Edinburgh with prices starting from just £15 per month.
You also receive 2 x service addresses (directors’ addresses) for your use, included in the price.
Is a global company offering business addresses, offices to rent and telephone answering machine services. Prices start from £19.88.
Business tel numbers
You could have your personal mobile and or house telephone number to save cost. The only problem with this is that you won't know what call is from a customer and what isn't, so you may constantly need to answer your phone with your business catch phrase "Good morning, Your money site, how may I help?"
If you want more of a professional look to your telephone number you could also buy a cheap mobile phone to keep on you and know that when it rings it's the business. What's beneficial about this is that you can set opening and closing times for your business. So if you are open from 9-5, your mobile only has to stay on for that period. You can have a voicemail set up to explain that messages left after hours will be returned on the next working day etc.
If you choose to go in a different direction, below are a list of telephone providers that offer virtual telephone numbers that you can divert to your mobile phone. It also shows you where the call is coming from so you will know if it's a business call or personal.
You will have to pay for the number as well as credit because you are charged per minute for the call, as well as a monthly fee.
Aql offer a few services including; SMS Messaging service, Machine to Machine connectivity, Business grade connectivity, Telecoms services (call forwarding services), and more. Call forwarding services cost £2.00 + VAT per geographic telephone number (01/02) / non geographic (08) number (charged quarterly in advance). The 0844 numbers have no monthly charge and the set up cost is free for all types of numbers. Call Credit is extra.
If you have a business that needs a business line installed then BT offers business solutions.
Skype is FREE and can be used on Desktop, Tablet and Mobile. All you have to do is download the software or App, set up your profile and your ready to receive and make calls. You can also do video calls and text.
eReceptionist offer call forwarding services to any number you choose, up to 3 numbers. eReceptionist offer number of services including ; call forwarding, call answering, voicemail to email, conference calling, telephone re directing, virtual receptionist and much more.
