Congratulations! Your business is outgrowing your small home office, and you’re ready to find a professional office space.
This is a big step for a business. A great workspace is one that solidifies productivity and culture in your company. Meanwhile, the wrong workspace can cause more headaches for you as a business owner.
To help you on your search, use these seven tips for finding office space perfect for you and your team.
1. Size Matters
A cramped and crowded office can kill your team’s productivity, efficiency, and overall well-being while working.
But don’t just stop at getting enough space for your current employees. Consider the future too.
Think about your plans for growth and expansion over the coming months and even years. How many employees will you need to hire? How many people do you imagine will be coming and going in an average workday?
A little too big is always better than too small. And rather than relocating repeatedly, opt for an office space that can accommodate a bigger team as you continue building your business.
2. Consider Amenities
Especially if your business is still growing, you may not be prepared to provide all the amenities your employees want. But your rental office space might.
Some spaces offer fun perks like food, beverages, outdoor lounges, gym access, and events.
Others stick to the basics, providing paper, printers and copiers, a functional lobby, and building security.
Decide what amenities your business requires, and make sure to keep these in mind during your hunt for the perfect business office.
3. Location, Location, Location
Location will affect your office space options for several reasons.
For one, location is a major factor in the cost of rental space. Depending on your budget, you may be limited to certain, sometimes undesirable, areas.
But the location also matters when it comes to accessibility. Even if the most in-demand locations are out of your budget, you should prioritize clients’ convenience. If clients can’t easily visit your office, they likely won’t.
And location can be a deal-breaker for some employees (or future candidates). Think realistically about where your employees live and what their commute will be like.
Finally, where your office is located can tie in with your branding and company culture. For example, if your business appeals to young customers, it can help to be in the hippest areas of town. Or if you need to be taken seriously in the finance industry, it’s best to settle down in your city’s financial district.
4. Is Sharing Caring?
Decide if your business would benefit from a shared or co-working space. These types of office environments are becoming increasingly popular, and they’re ideal for small teams who don’t need much private space.
Shared workspaces are also ideal for saving money, networking, and having flexibility.
But your business may require having the privacy and space that can only be found in an independent office.
Weigh your options, and decide if a private or shared space is best for you.
5. Budget Basics
As a business owner, you’re likely already comfortable crunching numbers and calculating a budget.
But just in case, here are some costs to consider when finding office space:
- Monthly or annual rent fee
- Deposits
- Utility costs
- Cost of furnishings
- Taxes
- Insurance
- Maintenance costs
- Building amenities fees
As you can see, you should budget beyond just the basic cost of the rent. Discuss what you’re responsible for paying when searching for an office.
And be sure to choose a space that’s within your business’s budget. To save money, consider shared office spaces, sublet leases, or a location that is just outside of your desired area.
You may also be able to negotiate some costs, especially for buildings that are struggling with vacancies. A tenant broker can help you find a fitting space within your budget requirements.
6. Include Your Employees
Foster some good ol’ teamwork, and include your employees in your search. They’ll likely have plenty of ideas and feedback, and they’ll appreciate that you care about their preferences.
Ask about what kind of work environments they like most. For example, do they enjoy open office plans, or are divided rooms and cubicles better? Is a kitchenette essential for some employees, or does everyone eat out at lunchtime?
Their advice and opinions will be vital in helping you find an office that works for the whole team.
7. Get To Know the Landlord
As you start looking at different properties and touring offices, you’ll eventually find one that you and your employees love. But that might not be enough if the landlord is terrible!
That’s why you should get to know the landlord before signing any papers.
Meet with them to ask any questions you have about the office space. And when possible, try discreetly asking others in the building (if there are currently other tenants) about their experiences with the landlord.
Some rental offices also have reviews available online. This is especially common with shared and co-working spaces, though some private office buildings may also have reviews.
Before committing to your new office space, be sure that the landlord is someone you can trust and feel comfortable renting from.
Finding Office Space Perfect for Your Business
Your business needs a work environment that encourages productivity, collaboration, and efficiency. But the wrong office space can get in the way.
When finding office space for you and your team, be sure to use these tips to help you choose the perfect place to build a successful business.
For more on business ownership, check out our blog to read our latest business articles!
