What your office says about you
Where a business chooses to office sends a powerful message to the public and in many ways, defines who and what your business is all about.
Your setting will dictate the type of employees you attract, how successful you are in retaining them over time and how you are viewed by your clients.
Here are a few things to think about when you’re leasing an office for the first time, or relocating an existing office:
1) Location – Are your employees coming from the city or suburbs? How do they get to work every day–public transportation, driving or biking?
If you are a firm who has clients frequently visit the office, how easy will it be for them to get to you?
2) Expansion Plans – Are there plans to grow the business? If so, what type of space and location do you need in order to attract quality labor?
3) Vibe – What type of atmosphere are you trying to convey?
Are you a creative firm that values a loft space with exposed brick and columns, timber or concrete ceilings and wood floors, or are you more of a professional firm that favors the traditional dropped ceiling with florescent light fixtures?
Do you want your employees collaborate with each other, or should they have private offices for personal time for concentration, meetings and phone calls?
4) Economics – Of course, money always plays a significant role in any key decision.
How often will existing or potential clients visit the space?
Do you need to impress them with a Class-A-caliber-building featuring panoramic city views and an immaculate lobby, or are you content leasing at a more budget minded, no frills property with a convenient location?
5) Perception – If you choose to locate in a higher end property and bill your clients on an hourly basis, how will your clients perceive your opulent office?
Will they feel like their fees are going straight towards supporting your Lake Michigan views as opposed to the services you are providing?
Will clients feel like they can better relate to an “average guy” and be more inclined to do business with a firm in a respectful, nice, middle of the road atmosphere?
On a related note, if you are a design-oriented firm, will a prospective client pre-judge your ability to complete the task based upon your cutting edge, uniquely designed office space? There’s a lot to say about the appearance of your office.
6) Amenities – Do you and your employees require features like an in-building fitness center, conference facility, cafeteria, concierge service, rooftop deck, bike storage or parking?
Several buildings offer some or all of these features, but make no mistake, you will be paying for it in the form of higher rent.
If these items help you attract and retain employees while keeping everyone happy and productive, however, it might be money well spent.
When it comes time to start or renew a lease, it is essential to run through this check list to ensure that the location is helping to shape the business in the manner that you want it to be perceived by employees, clients and the public.
With this list and a little luck, you’ll find the perfect office and start moving your business forward in a new, positive direction.