As an internet-based businessman and someone who does a huge amount of travelling, I can testify to the outstanding contribution that a virtual assistant can make. As well as having a virtual assistant to assist during hectic times, there are other services that travelling entrepreneurs should employ before leaving the workplace.
The great thing about having a web-based business is that you are able to access it from wherever you may be. That flexibility provides a number of benefits to entrepreneurs. One valuable bonus is the ability to hire a virtual assistant to cover for you. Equally beneficial is the capability to conduct business while travelling with a virtual office at your fingertips. In order to do so, here are 7 things that every travelling entrepreneur should consider:
1. A Virtual Phone Number.
A virtual number is typically a toll-free number that you can redirect to your land line or mobile phone. This allows your online business to maintain consistency no matter where you are. When travelling, a virtual phone number enables you to be accessible to your customers at all times.
2. Call Answering.
Remember, 70% of callers choose not to leave a voicemail if you don't answer the phone; therefore, a virtual assistant is vital phone coverage when you are not there. You can seamlessly route your virtual phone number to whichever number you choose. This is a great option when you can't use your mobile phone while travelling, on holiday, or in a different time zone. A virtual assistant can provide coverage for your online business when you can't.
3. Virtual Address.
An online business has many advantages, among them not having to rent office space. With a virtual address, you can still have a postal mailing address by using a registered office service that will handle your mail and have it forwarded to you. You can streamline the process even further by having your virtual assistant sift through the junk mail and either scan/email or fax the essential pieces to your current location.
4. Virtual Post.
Whenever you are unable to get to a post office during hours of operation, there are several services where you can email documents and information to them and they'll print and send it for you. The service will actually format your document and ensure that it is mailed promptly.
5. Email Handling.
An online business can attract a great deal of emails, some worthwhile, others unsolicited. When you're travelling, you want to be able to access the important emails quickly and easily. One way to cut down on non-essential emails is to set up a virtual email box for your newsletter subscriptions and other resources you might use. This will limit the number of emails you receive to your direct online business account. The other email accounts can be looked at when it suits you, or a virtual assistant can organise the material and email you articles that are useful to you.
6. Collaboration.
Find a virtual assistant who uses online collaboration software or a client project space. Keep everything perfectly organized in just one place and subscribe for updates using RSS feeds. This provides one simple stream of workflow that will keep you constantly updated, even with your mobile devices.
7. Mobile Device.
Make sure you have a hand held computer to avoid carrying around a laptop or briefcase. Always carry your virtual office in your pocket.
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Michelle Dale is The Managing Director of Virtual Miss Friday, a state of the art Executive Virtual Assistant Service which assists businesses and individuals with every aspect of their enterprising requirements. Do you want to explore these inspiring online business building success strategies? Check out the Campaign for
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