Business people the world over recognise the importance of networking. Not only does it generate a list of useful contacts, but it also encourages word-of-mouth advertising - which is both a free and trusted form of marketing.

Businesses that spend the majority of their time in one central office location will often sit and socialise with the same people every day. Usually the best chance they have of networking is when a representative of the company goes to a planned networking event - which can be a lengthy, costly, and sometimes fruitless process.

But a virtual office can provide endless free networking opportunities, as virtualofficeworld.com finds out...

Co-working

Taking on a virtual office means that the business owner is free to work wherever they wish. They are not tied into one physical office, and can choose to work in a variety of locations.

While many virtual office workers use their home as the basis of operations, there is a growing number of individuals that have started utilising 'digital nomad' or 'co-working' trends to carry out their working day.

For some, this means taking their laptop to a location that supports Wi-Fi internet - such as a Starbucks café or hotel lobby - and working off their broadband connection for the price of a coffee.

For others, this means hiring a desk in a 'co-working' environment, and working alongside other like-minded individuals in a set-up specially created for entrepreneurs, start-ups and freelancers.

Natural networking

Co-working environments offer an excellent location for professionals, as they typically provide all the necessary facilities such as landlines, broadband access, desks and chairs. They'll sometimes even throw in tea or coffee making facilities.

Perhaps one of the most important 'extras' of this set-up is that co-working provides natural networking opportunities. In short, professionals can exchange ideas and business cards with the people they work next to. It's a free version of the traditional networking event, and it's generally a much more informal atmosphere - giving workers the chance to spend time getting to know their new contacts throughout the day.

What's more, this type of networking can be done over a laptop, in-between business calls, or by the water cooler. It takes much less time out of the working day, and also helps to generate that all important word-of-mouth advertising.

Nik Thierry, a graphic designer who moved from London to Calgary in April this year, is one example of a businessperson who uses co-working to his advantage.

"With a variety of people around, you get to know them and trust them and maybe do business with them," Thierry says. "It's nice when you can knock on the door next to you and hand someone work."

Commenting on his current co-working environment, he adds: "It's an office that has mortgage brokers in it, and there are other companies here, too. I used their services while I was looking to buy a house, and they've asked me to do some design work."

Margaret Zeidler, who runs the space where Thierry co-works, says:

"Many people are becoming entrepreneurs to survive, and they respond to this community setting where people share ideas and tips. If you're in your home you don't have that."

"We talk online"

Many businesses that use virtual offices and those that work remotely utilise modern technology to connect with colleagues, clients and suppliers - take a look at our web technologies article to find low-cost ways of improving virtual office communication.

Thierry is one such professional that harnesses the benefits of technology to communicate with others. He connects to his business partner in Britain through e-mail and Skype.

"I haven't met a client face to face in the last two or three years," he says. "We talk online."

If you're starting your own business, becoming an entrepreneur, or entering the freelance market, and you're looking for ways to boost the image of your business without the costs of a physical office, get in touch with one of our virtual office advisors for free help and advice.

Alternatively to find out more and to search for available virtual office locations, visit our website at virtualofficeworld.com.

Read the full article involving Nik Thierry here