Time to Move Your Office?

Whether you are looking for a larger space, cheaper rent or have other reasons for moving your office, you have several things to consider when selecting the new location.

Since you probably will have to sign a lease for several years, you want to make certain that you make the right decision.

Consider Growth

You must find a place that allows your business to grow.

Go back to your business plan if you are just starting out and think about where you want to be in five years. Does the location have enough room for you to meet your goals?

If you don't have money in the budget for a larger space, consider asking for a short-term lease or one with a clause that allows you to get out early if you need more space in the next two or three years.

As the following article looks at, Jim Decker's blog mentions you can work with an experienced investment manager to help you get the capital you need for moving to the right location.

Consider Customers

When choosing a location, look at it through the eyes of your typical customer.

Will they mind the drive to get to your office? Is it hard to get in or out of? If you are moving just down the street, it may not be a big deal, but if you are going across town, think about how it will affect your customers.

Also consider future customers.

Will you be able to have your company name on a sign? Where will it be displayed on the building? While you may have many other ways to advertise, don't underestimate the value of foot traffic.

Consider Your Competition

Don't forget about your competitors when you are considering a move.

Who are your biggest competitors and how close will they be? In some cases, you want to be close to your competition and other times, you want to stay at a distance. Think about their location and how their office looks to see if yours measures up.

While you must stay within budget, you don't want to look cheap.

This is especially true if your competition boasts a large office space on a main street and you are tucked in a tiny area on a side street. If the customer can’t even find you, he or she will be comparing you to the other company.

Consider the Technical Aspect

When viewing various office spaces, you want to think about the logistics.

This includes several components:

• Parking

•  ADA compliance

•  Shared space with other businesses, such as storage, bathrooms and hallways

•  Security

You can often save money by sharing some of your common areas with other businesses. However, you don't want to detract from your company's image or make it more difficult for clients or your employees.

It is always a good idea to take one or two members of your staff with you when you tour potential office spaces. They may have insights that you don't have, especially if they work directly with customers.

Even if you fall in love with the first or second place you look at, view several for a good comparison. This decision will affect you for at least the next few years, so don't make it hastily.

The right office can help your business thrive.

About the author

Joyce Morse is an author who writes on a variety of topics, including marketing and technology.

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