When your business becomes big enough, it is time to move out of your garage or bedroom into an actual office. Some people might think that this is an unnecessary expense, but having an actual office brings solid benefits to your business. But you need to build your office right, though. Here are a few tips on how you should work on setting up your office.
Find a Great Location
One of the first things you should focus on is to find a great place for your office. There are dozens of office spaces out there for rent, and you will want the one that fits your needs and presents a good front to your customers. You don’t have to set up in a high rise, but that would be a big help. Not everyone can afford that, though, so you need to focus on a place that is accessible and looks good enough that it won’t scare away clients and employees.
Look at the Space and Plan a Layout
Depending on your office space deal, you might be getting an office with furnishings already, or you will start off with an empty room. An empty room would be preferable, but you can still work with your office, even with furnishings. There are several approaches you can take with your layout. First, you might want an open layout that emphasizes collaboration and minimal space for your employees but is low on privacy. A closed plan will provide your people with privacy to work without interruptions, but you need a large amount of space for this. Finally, there is a modular approach, which allows for individual customization.
The layout is just for the main workspace. You will need to reserve several areas for individual offices that will be for you and the management team. Planning out your office properly so that you can maximize the space is essential if you want a comfortable place to work.
Buy the Necessities
After the layout planning, it is time to get a shopping list together of what you need. This can range from seats to computers. Ensure that you check the list so that you don’t get anything that you won’t be needing. For example, if you are a paperless office, the standard copy machine is not going to do anything in your office.
Get Working Communications
Besides the equipment, you need to connect with the outside world. There are two aspects to this. First, you’ll need a phone office system like Xorcom. This allows your office to connect via telephone with just a single number. Phones are still an important part of the business world, so don’t skimp on them. Second, you’ll need an internet connection. This is an essential part of today’s business, so don’t forget about it.
Have a Reception Area
Finally, always have a reception area. This is a place for everyone visiting, from clients to potential employees to wait. This is at the front door of your office and where your receptionist works. Separate it from your work area so that your people get no distractions from them. Just have comfy chairs and some reading materials so that the people waiting have something to do.
Opening up an office is a big development in the growth of your business. It signals to the world that you are ready to take it on. The tips above should be a big help in ensuring that your people are able to work right and that you present well to your clients. Put some effort into, and your office will be sure to be a hit.
