Many organisations have used or planned to use their other sites and offices near by as their alternative site, should the worst happen. With the economic impact from COVID-19 being felt the world over, many organisations are making tough decisions to merge sites together and, in some case, close smaller offices all together.
As you make decision on how your organisations will operate in the future ensure you don’t impact your business continuity plans by removing your alternative sites without considering a replacement.
It is possible to seek an alternative location from a third party, here are some tips on how to make the right decisions.
Find a Secure Building
The building itself should offer some amenities to keep you, your employees, and your equipment safe and secure, find out if the building has a security guard, manned entry way and after-hours security.
Choose a Space That Fits Your Team
Of course, you will need a large enough space for the members of your team to each have a desk or place to sit. But you do not want something so large that you are paying for entire rooms that you never use.
But Leave Some Room to Grow
However, a bit of extra space can be a good thing, especially if you plan to grow within the length of your lease. Even a few extra cubicle spaces or some room to add a few desks can be helpful.
Decide How You Want the Office Laid Out
Do you want an open concept or more closed-off workspaces? Different bosses and teams have different preferences. So, think about what style would suit your team best and choose an office that lends itself to your preferred layout.
Know Exactly in What Condition the Space is in
Some offices do not always come as advertised. And some might require a bit of work before you move your things in. If you want to know exactly what the space will look like if you decide to rent it, you must ask these questions. Make sure you understand how the space will be delivered. Do you require improvements like paint and carpet, or do you need walls and doors moved or added? Who will pay for these improvements?
Consider Parking and Bike Storage
Parking is another important factor that might be overlooked when renting your first office space. You need to make sure there are enough parking spaces nearby so that your team can get to work on time without much hassle. A secure parking lot or dedicated area is a plus. Or if you are in an area where there are more bikers, make sure there is a rack or enough space somewhere in the building for employees to store their bikes.
Think About How the Office Will Appear to Others
Like it or not, your office sends a message to others about your business. If you choose a building that is falling apart, that could tell clients that you are struggling. But if you overextend your budget with a lavish space for your first office, they could think that they are paying you too much.
Have a Place to Meet
Aside from just desks or cubicles, you will need to think about some other spaces that could be useful to your team. Do you need a dedicated conference room or a few smaller meeting rooms? Do you need a kitchen or any other specific types of spaces?
Know What You Can Customise
You likely want to make your first office your own. But most landlords probably do not want you knocking down walls and completely changing their buildings. So, before you sign anything, see what you can do to the space without them charging you for damages.
We can help guide you through this decision-making process, and we are able to provide different alternative site options to your organisation out of our North East regional office in Gateshead.
