Moving into your first office is an exciting milestone to reach. It signals the growth you have worked so hard towards and the stability you have created within your business. There is a clear shift from starting a business to building something you are passionate about.
However, while opening a new office is exciting, it is going to come with many challenges and a lot of stress and anxiety that you are going to need to work with. It isn’t just about organizing desks and Wi-Fi; there are going to be some major decisions that can influence the profitability of your business, the productivity and happiness of your employees, and the costs of your operations for years to come.
Before you jump into signing a lease, it is important that you think not only about the square footage, but other essential factors that will make or break your new office. To help you on your journey, here are some important things to consider.
Choosing the right location for long-term growth
The right location should be convenient for you, your employees and whoever else may be coming to your office. For some, this may be suppliers, for others, this could be clients. However, the location goes beyond just convenience. It will also impact the perception of your business and its efficiency in its operations. If your office is not close to amenities, is difficult to reach or is in a place with a bad crime rate, this is not going to be a good start for your business.
Take a look at key things like:
- Nearby food
- Parking availability
- Public transport
- Shops and amenities
- Wi-Fi and phone signal
- Safety
You will also want to consider what areas align well with your brand and, if relevant, can be seen and accessed by customers.
Designing a comfortable space that people want to work in
Comfort isn’t a luxury – it is a necessity for any office, new or old. In fact, you should see it as a productivity tool for your business. If your new office is cramped, cluttered, disorganized, uncomfortable, cold and with poor lighting, then your employees and customers are not going to be happy. It will show up in fatigue, morale and performance.
It is important that you invest in a location that has a lot of natural light and space to move around in. Invest in wall mounted heaters to keep your employees warm, comfortable and at a consistent temperature throughout the day. Allow space for ergonomic furniture, collaboration and focus.
Plan the infrastructure before you move in
Infrastructure is just as important as furniture, if not more so. Without reliable internet, power outlets, secure networking and technology, your office is not going to be able to function. And it needs to be able to function from day one.
Make sure you research all the essential infrastructure needs of your business and ensure the location you find aligns with your needs. You want to ensure the building has the capability to support you and your business. If not, it will be very expensive and disruptive.
Starting an office space means a lot you have to think about and plan for. While furniture, colors and space are important, it is often these essentials that are missed. Make sure you plan for it all, so you can enjoy your success and your new space.
