The absence of a physical space of an office can be a double-edged sword. Despite the fact that establishing a successful virtual office is beneficial for many, the hindrances it provides are quite complex to counter too. A remote job is quite different from jobs which provide a physical space for all the employees.

• Efficiency – When your employees work remotely, it may be quite hard to react to crises or emergencies. Allowing your employees to fix their own schedule can be quite problematic when you absolutely need them to show up. The solution to this is to prepare in advance and contacting your employees as frequently as possible to discuss problems.

Security – The security concerns that pop up with the use of a virtual office is a very serious issue. Educating your employees on what not to do and what to do to prevent threats provided by insecure networks is of paramount importance.

• Trust – A hindrance which may have drastic repercussions in the long run is the problem of developing a trustworthy relationship with your employees. It is very easy to check on employees when you are personally meeting them but to do it remotely is cumbersome. A solution to this is to believe that they are working hard and hope your trust will be rewarded.

• Interpretation - Companies with virtual offices often get mistaken to be not serious about their vision and goals. Larger companies with real-life offices can showcase their wealth and seriousness to their investors. The solution to this is hard work so that your results are a reflection of your capabilities.

• Personal relations – A physical office provides helps employees connect with each other. Talented leaders can inspire the leaders and ensure that everyone is on par with the objectives of the business. It is quite hard to replicate the same in a virtual office where work is done remotely but proper management by superiors can slowly solve this problem.

• Violation – The violation of the rules of a company can be hard to detect and solve if the employees are working remotely. It is up to the manager to develop appropriate measures and educate employees on work habits and risk they involve.

Image – The image of a company with remote offices can be affected by the fact that they do not have physical spaces. Customers may be appealed by outer appeal although it is true that perceptions of people are changing. It is best to educate your customers and be transparent with them about your vision and working space.

• Management of Employees – The problem of micromanagement of each and every employee is shortened by remote offices but it is not a very easy task. It is best to ensure that your employees are accountable and responsible.

Many of the problems faced by the virtual office can be solved by appropriate direction from leaders. Responsible employees who are smart and know the problems that the virtual office faces can work their way around it comfortably. Identifying these people is a test of the judgment and tact of the superior.  

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