An example of how using a Virtual PA can help you in moving office or home.

CHALLENGE: Ensuring that when moving office or home the move takes place simply and quickly with regards to setting up priority communication channels like the home/business landline, internet connection and Sky.

SOLUTION: Supply all priority contacts like regular business clients, household bills, utilities and bank accounts with the new office address. Insurance for the home, business and car received notification of the change in address and contact details.

VALUE: Quickly implemented the transition so that there was no interference with communications and the running of the business.

For the process of helping a business to move home and house there are three stages; start, middle and end.

Starting stage

  • Having a definite moving-in date for the disconnection of the telephone, internet provider and Sky from the old house.
  • Arranging in advance connection of the telephone, internet provider and Sky for the new property.
  • Making sure priority people are aware of when the move will be taking place in advance and who will be the main person of contact during the transition period for the business.
  • Send out an email to all concerned about the change in office address – so clients/suppliers know where to send the invoices to if they use the postal service.
  • Putting in place a redirect with Royal Mail for both home and business mail. Be aware a redirect for a business is more expensive and they will require to see your passport and driving licence at the post office counter.

Middle stage

  • Using a Virtual PA who can confidently hold the fort during the transition period by: dealing with immediate queries by telephone; keeping a check on emails, and responding on behalf of the director/owner of the company while they move house/office.
  • Having the ability to stay calm when something does go wrong and knowing how to deal with the situation quickly and responsibly.

End stage

  • Change all template forms, letterheads and website with the new office address. Make sure the rest of the team have this information and don’t accidentally send out old documentation with the old address on.
  • Send out a simple letter informing of change of address to the rest of the non urgent monthly bill companies such as TV licence, water supplier, gas and electric. Don’t forget to take meter readings too. Some gas/electric providers will send you a text as a reminder to do a meter reading on your last day.
  • Make sure your accountant knows of the change of address so that they can inform the tax office (especially if you use your home address as your work address).
  • Don’t forget you’ll need to update your driving licence too.
  • There will be the inevitable list of companies that you’re a member of or keep your contact details on a professional trade website that will need updating.