Seven out of ten companies have discovered that they will need less office space in the future, according to recent studies. In other words, the demand for office space decreases, and the supply increases. We’re seeing companies with business models centring around the rental of offices and coworking spaces taking extra steps in terms of security and digitalisation. Many of them have opted for a virtual receptionist in recent months. What added value does this have for them? Why are business centres such as Business Park Ypres and Park Office, as well as major players, rolling out virtual reception systems in their own reception space?
Old assets are unusable
Criteria with which business centres made the difference until recently were such things as a good location, a beautiful historic building, a fancy interior, and personal service. That worked fine. But then Covid-19 came. And all of a sudden, companies had to look for something completely different… To get lessees over the bridge, they had and continue to develop other, new innovations. And they have discovered that the virtual receptionist is a cost-effective way to fight against possible vacancy and reduced rental rates. These are their arguments.
Teleworkers and lessees need their ‘own’ receptionist
One of the most far-reaching changes is that hybrid working situations have suddenly become established. People work a lot more flexibly, sometimes at the office, sometimes at home… A virtual receptionist plays a role here. Couriers, suppliers, or unexpected visitors are welcomed by a fully automated system and the teleworker is kept informed in real time.
Furthermore, colleagues can easily drop off an item or put something in storage for their colleagues working at home via the virtual reception desk. They’ll get a notification right away when they’ve got mail or when a recorded delivery has arrived. They can then pick these items up as soon as they’re back in the office.
Focus on health and safety
Our worldview has changed radically. Suddenly, health and safety are the top priority. Lessees want guarantees that everyone respects the hygiene rules. The virtual receptionist is a highly efficient solution for coworking spaces and business centres. It informs employees and visitors of preventive measures and systematically carries out a short health check during peak times for viruses. It also features a hand sanitiser dispenser with a built-in safety sensor, guaranteeing that anyone entering the building has disinfected their hands. Afterwards, the receptionist prints an ‘all clear’ badge for visitors, which creates a sense of security for everyone in the building. That’s a good thing for everyone.
