A growing business usually correlates with a rising workforce, requiring more room to operate efficiently. A cramped office can lead to reduced productivity due to inefficiency, discomfort, and distractions. With well-designed, spacious offices, employees can focus more on their work. Such spaces are conducive to innovation and creativity, propelling your business towards growth. Besides boosting workforce efficiency, ample office space is vital for improved functionality and productivity.
More space also facilitates communication and collaboration. With sufficient space, you can create workspaces that encourage teamwork and seamless interaction. Although finding an office space suitable for your business needs isn’t easy, the right strategies can help. Discussed below is how to choose the best office space for your growing business.
Make a budget
Budgeting is key to finding the most suitable office space for your expanding business. When preparing a budget for your office space, determine the amount of space you need and research market rates to estimate monthly rent. Your new office space budget will be influenced by:
- Location: Prime locations in major cities command high prices, while less central or suburban areas are more affordable
- Services and amenities: Conference rooms, parking, break areas, internet, and security can influence the overall cost. While some leases add these to rent, others charge them separately
- Size and layout: Your office size is directly proportional to cost. Open-plan layouts may be more affordable than segmented ones. Factor in your current business needs and further growth potential to find the right office size
The budget should also account for upfront expenses, such as getting the office ready for your business needs, ongoing costs like monthly mortgage/ rent, utilities, and upkeep expenses, such as gardening. Also, factor in moving expenses. You can research and get quotes from multiple reliable moving companies, such as Tucson Movers, for more realistic estimates.
Prioritize location
A strategic office location is a major consideration as it influences your business’s success, molding its ability to attract clients and create revenue while sustaining competitiveness in the market. When looking for an office space location, consider the following:
- Accessibility: Office location is vital as it influences your customers, employees, suppliers, and business partners. The best location should be easy to access via public transport, bikes, cars, and any other means
- Your target market and customers: Your offices should be close enough to easily and effectively reach customers and prospects
- Cost: Office space costs differ by location. As such, the best location for your office should match your budget
- Competition and opportunities: Avoid areas saturated by businesses like yours because they might lower your profitability and weaken your market share. Opt for a location with a healthy combination of competition and complementary businesses or collaboration opportunities
Research the various types of office spaces in your preferred location
There are various office space options suitable for different businesses. Researching and understanding the different types of office space in your preferred area can help you find the best for your growing company. They include:
- Traditional office spaces: Their features include a reception, bullpen, and a boardroom and are designed to provide employees with private, quiet spaces for working independently and with customers
- Contiguous office spaces: They have two adjacent office spaces and are ideal for large businesses looking for different-sized spaces close to each other. Contiguous office spaces minimize distractions because only a few people are in the offices
- Creative office spaces: These offices operate beyond traditional layouts, and their objective is to promote collaboration among employees, flexibility, and creativity
- Coworking spaces: These are large open offices where employees can use several desks. They may have break-out and meeting rooms. Coworking office spaces are perfect for businesses looking for temporary office spaces, networking opportunities, and short-term leases.
Consider security
Selecting a safe area for your office space is vital for your business and employees’ safety. You want your company to be in a safe and secure location, guaranteeing the safety of your assets and that of your employees and customers. Consider the location’s crime rate to determine if it’s appropriate for your business. You should also look at the measures put in place to ascertain the building’s safety and security.
consider the amenities you require
Amenities are the additional features that help create a motivating and comfortable office space for your employees. They make your staff members’ lives easier while improving workplace satisfaction. When looking for office space, it’s important to consider what your expanding business needs to function smoothly. The suitable amenities can make your team more productive and engaged. Some of the amenities to look for when selecting an office space include:
- Break areas: Snack stations and lounges around the office are crucial for recharging
- Collaborative zones: Spaces with flexible seating, whiteboards, and writable walls facilitate teamwork
- Relaxation spots: Quiet spaces designated for meditation or relaxation allow employees to reflect and decompress
Hire a commercial real estate broker
Considering how complex the commercial real estate market is, finding the best office space for your expanding business isn’t easy. This is where a commercial real estate broker comes in. Working with these experts can help you find an office space thanks to their:
- Expansive market knowledge: Commercial property brokers have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the local real estate market. This enables them to provide you with valuable insights regarding the office spaces available for rent or leasing. With the help of a real estate broker’s knowledge, you can find an office space that resonates with your business needs
- Professional negotiation skills: Experienced brokers have the finesse and expertise to negotiate lease terms. They understand the intricacies of lease terms, enabling you to navigate the negotiation phase while helping you get the most out of your lease agreement
- A broad network: Commercial real estate brokers have established connections with property owners, landlords, and other brokers. This gives them access to a broad range of office spaces, making it easier to find the best for your business
- Personalized property recommendations: When it comes to office spaces, each business’s needs are unique. A commercial real estate agent will take time to understand your company’s goals, needs, and budget. With these details, they can offer office space recommendations that tick all these boxes
Endnote
Business growth comes with the need for more space. However, finding a suitable space to accommodate your expanding company’s needs can be challenging. Consider implementing these tips to help you find the best office space for your business.