When it comes to your business, office space isn’t just one of those things that fall under the heading ‘nice to have.’ Office space is a necessity. But the right office space? Means so much more. The right space will lend your business legitimacy, possibly even prestige. Its functionality can help your productivity, amenities will increase employee satisfaction, and the location could determine the ultimate success of your business.
With all that in mind, here are some tips for choosing the best office space for your business.
A beautiful office in a run down or unsafe neighborhood will not help your business’s reputation. Especially when female employees are afraid to walk alone to their cars or public transportation after work. Your neighborhood is the first impression clients, customers, and employees will get of your business. Make sure it’s a good one.
Is it easy for customers and employees to reach you via subway, bus, or rail? Is there ample parking available for those who choose to drive? Are there restaurants for convenient lunches and after work get togethers? How about gyms, banks and shopping? You can locate excellent office space online and then scout out the neighborhood online before going to visit it in person.
If you want your clients to feel comfortable and have a place to relax while they wait for meetings, this could be an important concern for you. A friendly face out front could be a asset to your business.
The last thing your business needs is to set up shop right down the hall from a direct competitor. Competition is healthy, but there’s no need to place that kind of pressure on your business.
Leasing a space that is too small for your needs is a recipe for misery. If you have any question, you can set out a mock layout of your office on the floor with something as simple as newspaper and tape to represent all of your desks, tables, and equipment. It could save you trouble down the line.
Some landlords will prohibit you from altering the space in any way. That usually means no painting and definitely no moving walls around. Others won’t have a problem negotiating any renovations with you, but they will certainly want to know about any major changes you might plan.
If your business is highly creative or if you work in technology, the trend is toward more wide open spaces that will encourage collaboration and teamwork. If your business requires you to meet one on one with clients, or if you tend to deal with sensitive information, you may need offices with doors that can be closed for privacy when necessary.
Your budget, of course, will have the greatest impact on the size and location of the space that you can afford. Do keep in mind, however, that there may be hidden costs that you may not have considered. Here are a few things that you will want to keep in mind that could affect whether you can afford the space you want:
In the end, you want to give yourself plenty of time to find the right space for your business. Rushing the process will increase the likelihood that you end up with the wrong space for your needs.
Hannah Dickins is part of the team behind DirectorStats.co.uk. With a huge interest in technology and startup industry, she works as a Community Manager. She’s keen on new helpful online tools and productivity hacks.
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My dad's office has more room than they need. He likes the space though because everyone can have their own section. I would definitely recommend renting more office space rather than less. If things go well, you will hire new employees and quickly fill the empty space. Great post!