Starting a new business is an exciting time full of dreams and goals. Your creative idea is finally becoming a reality. Now, you need a brick-and-mortar space to ensure your venture is visible, easy to access for customers, and suitable for you and your team. The space you select will become your headquarters and reflect your brand and company culture. Before signing on the dotted line, there are a few things you should reflect on and research to find the ideal office space.
What Are Your Business Physical Needs?
The first step in finding the best location for your business is understanding your business needs. Consider the size of your team, equipment needs, meeting spaces, and storage space. One suggestion is that each team member be required to have 100 to 150 square feet. Of course, this varies based on your business model and what will occur in your space.
What is Your Ideal Location?
You’ve probably heard the saying,” location, location, location.” Where you hang your sign can have an impact on customer traffic, brand visibility, employee satisfaction, and future growth. Select a location that is easy to find, has ample parking, and is close to popular retail anchors.
What is Your Budget?
Your budget is a very important part of your new business picture. Establish how much you are willing and able to pay for rent, utilities, insurance, office furniture and equipment, property taxes, and maintenance fees. Then, pay close attention to the listings and delete those that are out of your budget.
Exploring Different Office Types for Your Business
Today’s business models offer more flexibility and versatility than ever before. Thanks to our digital age, totally remote and hybrid offices are mainstream options for some employees. On the other hand, retail and food service businesses will require brick-and-mortar locations.
Traditional Office Spaces: Private office spaces and conference rooms with dedicated doors for privacy remain the traditional office setting. If your business model requires these options, select a space that you can tailor and customize to your specific needs.
Co-working Spaces: Co-working spaces are more modern and ideal for startups and small businesses looking for flexibility and networking opportunities. These spaces can be wide open or private offices that are designed for temporary use by more than one person. This growing office setting generates collaboration, teamwork, and offers amenities like meeting rooms, bathrooms, office equipment, coffee, snacks, and often community networking events, educational presentations, and employment fairs.
Executive Suites: Executive suite options offer short—and long-term leases and are ideal if your business needs a professional setting. Suites usually offer minimal setup time and provide the flexibility to scale up or down as your business needs change. Many are fully furnished and equipped with WiFi and phone systems. There are usually backup systems in the event of a brownout or blackout offering an extra layer of security.
Searching For The Perfect Solution
Research Using Online Tools
Online platforms like Google, Safari, and real estate apps will help you streamline your search. These are tools that are designed to narrow down your options based on details like location, budget, size requirements, and type of space you prefer. Virtual tours are popular and common on these sites and provide a first impression without needing to arrange for a personal onsite visit. Virtual tours save you valuable time as you can remove undesirable options from your checklist.
Ask Around: Word of Mouth And Networking is Helpful
Oftentimes, the best opportunities come from your personal and professional connections. Friends, colleagues, and other professionals who are familiar with your community and your business can assist you in your search. Attend industry events, presentations, and professional mixers, expand your business network, and ask for suggestions to uncover hidden gems. You’ll be surprised at how this word of mouth can help develop future relationships, too.
Hire A Professional Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents have professional knowledge about your market, how the system works, and access to new listings not made public. They are skilled, trained negotiators and will work to find you the best price. Real Estate agents get a commission, but in the long run, they can save you time and money while you concentrate on other matters.
Evaluate and Imagine Your Business In A Potential Office Space
When you are finally ready to go onsite and tour a potential office space, right when you walk through the door, imagine your business there. Consider the property’s overall condition, the amenities offered, and whether the layout will work with your needs. Notice the natural light entering the space and how the ambiance feels. These little unspoken features will make a big difference to you and your employees’ productivity and happiness.
Consider Future Growth and Expansion
When evaluating the size of the office space, make sure it is big enough for future growth. If it is already cramped, move on to another location. Ask for flexible lease terms or options that include expansion within the property if there is room to grow.
Design Your Office Space To Reflect Your Brand
First impressions are very important for your business and your brand. Since your office is an extension of your brand, design the space to reflect your values, culture, and aspirations. This can be accomplished with color schemes, signage, and spaces that encourage productivity and collaboration. Work with an interior designer to help you create a space that parallels your business image. Examples of brands that have successfully designed their space to reflect their brands are McDonald’s, Target, Apple, and Amazon.
Engage Your Team Before Making The Big Move
Plan your move to minimize disruption to your everyday business. Engage your team and ask for input regarding their space requirements, equipment, and other details. This will make them feel valued and a part of the overall process. The perfect office space is not just about the physical location. It’s about creating a collaborative space that is the foundation of a successful future.
Ashley Nielsen
Ashley Nielsen earned a B.S. degree in Business Administration Marketing at Point Loma Nazarene University. She is a freelance writer who loves to share knowledge about general business, marketing, lifestyle, wellness, and financial tips. During her free time, she enjoys being outside, staying active, reading a book, or diving deep into her favorite music.