Decisions, decisions. Are you a small business owner looking to rent an office? Are you a start-up business ready to grow into a new space, but you’re not sure where to begin?
As a business owner, many of your decisions are driven by your company’s growth. Decisions like whether or not to move to a larger office space require additional thoughts, like what is what isn’t worth an investing in. You don’t want to invest in key resources too soon or too late. That’s why when it comes to office space, you want to invest in a work environment that you can grow into, but one that also works for your current situation. It really comes down to utilizing space and recognizing growth potential. Good news – we can help you learn how to get the most out of an office and how to build it out so you can grow into with the 5 tips below.
1. Determine Your Budget and Location
It is important to know what your budget is when you start looking and to make sure the spaces you are looking at fit within it. This will help you narrow down your options to what you can realistically afford. Looking for spaces in that realm while also keeping in mind a space to grow into will help your company be able to hire and grow in the future.
Location is also crucial. It needs to be considered for potential/future employees as well as current, including yourself. Take into consideration timely commutes, easily accessible routes, daily traffic conditions, etc.
2. Research and Tour Office Spaces
Contact a reputable leasing agent in your area (such as Bluewater Properties). They will be able to show you different office spaces available in your area and will be able to make suggestions to help you find a space that you can grow with. It’s best to see the space in person to check out the area, meet your potential new neighbors, and to visualize what it would actually be like to work there.
3. Decide on an Office
When deciding on an office, consider extra space if you eventually plan to grow your team. While you may not need the extra space right away, you may be able to sublease the extra space to another renter for additional income. (Keep in mind, the original lease will need to include sublease options up front.) Look for an office that shares common space, or utilities, to help reduce overhead. Check out our list of 20 Questions to Ask When Choosing an Office Space.
4. Building Out Your Office
Your office furniture will be a good place to start in building a space you can grow into. Minimize office furniture to begin with. Traditional office furniture can be large and becomes outdated quickly. Your furniture choices can also limit the number of team members that can comfortably fit into your current space. Thinking outside the box can help you come up with inexpensive, space-saving options that can grow with you. Prioritizing functionality can help you maximize even the smallest of office spaces. This could include slim office furniture, which many suppliers offer, or moving to an open work environment. Other options are lower and more minimal cube walls, table desks, etc. Forget the traditional cubicle space, utilize your square footage. An open floor plan leave you with room to switch things up, so as your company grows, your space can grow with you. Placing people within close proximity to each other may actually increase productivity and foster idea sharing.
5. Don’t Forget About Privacy
An open work environment will allow an office to be more collaborative, but it is still important to leave space for privacy. Designate a conference room or an office as space for meetings or telephone calls. A shared calendar is a great way to reserve time and ensures all staff members have access to the space.
