When you run a small business, there are so many things you have to think about. You have to manage expenses, lead your employees effectively, and serve your clients or customers at the highest level. You also have to think about the logistical things like the office that you’re going to run your business from.
This is a big decision for so many reasons, it’s where your clients will meet with you, it’s where your team will work, and it’s a world-facing aspect of your brand identity. Whether you’re building an office from the ground up, leasing or buying, this is what you need to be thinking about.
Work-From-Home Considerations
In a post-pandemic world, the idea of business premises has changed significantly, so as a business owner and leader you might be approaching the decision differently. To find the right office space, you’re going to have to consider whether or not your team is coming back to the office full-time, or if you’re more likely to implement a hybrid model where people split their time between working from home and being in the office. This is going to inform the size of office space you’re going to get, which will also impact how much you might be paying.
Security
When it comes to the kind of office that you’re going to have, one thing is non-negotiable, and that’s security.
Nothing is really as important as the safety and security of your people, so when you choose your new office building make sure the security is top-notch and that you spare no expense.
According to negligent security attorney, SteinLaw, “Proper security measures include hiring competent security guards, installing a security guard station, patrolling the premises on a regular and continual basis, installing bright lighting in all areas, installing appropriate security communications systems, installing security cameras throughout the property, making sure individuals are not hiding or living on the property.” Make sure the building you choose ticks all these boxes.
Accessibility
Another consideration you’ll have to make when you’re looking for business premises is going to be how accessible the location is. It’s important to think about a location that’s most beneficial to as much of your workforce as possible.
The last thing you want is to lower their job satisfaction by having them deal with a long and stressful commute. When you think about accessibility, think about all types of transport modes from trains to cars, so that you truly choose an office that works for everyone.
Coworking
The rise of coworking spaces is also quite beneficial to small business owners who want high-tech business premises while paying a cheaper lease.
The great thing about coworking offices is that you can create an arrangement where you can pay for the space you use, the number of desks you have, or the days in a month where your workforce will be in the office. This is a much better arrangement that allows you to cut costs while getting the benefits of a modern office, a great working environment, the best internet connectivity and other amazing resources you would need to pay a whole lot more if we were going it alone.
Design
When you’re thinking about your office space, you also do have to consider style and how it looks. To help your employees feel great at work and to really nurture productivity and creativity, the environment definitely makes an impact.
People want to be in offices that let a lot of light in, where the decor is pleasant and modern, and where they feel comfortable to do their best work. Also make sure your office environment also aligns with the brand and identity of your business. After all, your office is a physical representation of your brand and that influences how your clients see you.
Your office building is an important decision, for many businesses it’s actually the biggest monthly expense, so you really have to consider a lot of factors before you sign on the dotted line. Make sure you include the input of your workforce so they can feel good about coming to work, and be in an environment they actually enjoy spending their time in.
Think about the more logistics-based aspects like how accessible it is for all your employees, and the kind of technology that will power your business and help you serve your clients and customers a lot better. Ultimately your office is the home of your entire company, and making sure it’s reflective of your brand and your people is extremely important.