Did you know that 24% of surveyed employees ranked “corporate culture/work environment” as the most important factors (aside from salary) when considering a job offer? It actually outranked “opportunities for advancement.”
Choosing your first or your next office space can be an exciting time as you look to the future and try to build the right type of workplace culture. There are many things to consider, like space, budget, amenities, location, among others. One of the most important ones is where you establish your office because it could have a positive impact on your business. For example, newly built office towers in SoMa are an excellent alternative since SoMa is known for being a business district where major companies have their headquarters. However, it can also be one of the most stressful times as well.
To help you choose the perfect space for your needs and your budget, always be sure to consider the following things.
Remember That Open-Concept isn’t For Everyone
A few years ago, the open-concept office became all the rage, as companies wanted to show people that they’re progressive and forward-thinking. They said, “Let’s tear down these stuffy cubical walls in favor of openness.” However, many companies soon discovered that people actually liked and needed those walls.
In fact, a study of Fortune 500 Companies discovered that open concept offices can actually cause employees to put on their headphones and retreat further into themselves. The studied employees actually spent 73% less time in face-to-face interactions. Meanwhile, email (up 67%) and IM (up 75%) usage skyrocketed.
If you want an open-concept office because that’s what you feel reflects your brand and the culture you want, that’s great. But don’t get sold on this concept just because it’s trendy.
Favorable Lease Terms
The space may be perfect, but you also need to make sure the lease is as well. An unfavorable commercial lease can end up costing your business far more money than you may expect, if you’re not careful.
That being said, you don’t necessarily need a real estate lawyer to read it over for you. There are non-lawyer services out there with helpful blogs. For example, click the following link to read the office space secrets that your would-be building managers and landlords may try to sneak into your lease.
The rent you pay is only one piece of how much this space will cost you. Be sure to look at all of the factors and the entire occupancy costs, which will include things like:
- Maintenance costs
- Property & general liability insurance
- Taxes
- Utilities
Location! Location! Location!
Of course, you want your office to be accessible. However, that means different things to different people.
If you’re moving from one office to another, your first instinct may be to consider how a new location is going to impact your staff members’ respective commutes. That’s considerate, but you may consider taking a broader look. Ask how a move would affect the staff that you want to have. You likely hope to expand and grow your company even further, so be sure to remember that your location is a major selling point for many job applicants.
Think about your workforce. Are you a media company with a largely millennial-aged workforce? That may point you towards a downtown area location, with access to trendy restaurants and bicycle parking. If you’re a law firm with an older staff, these things are less of a selling point.
Always consider how many other businesses of your type are in the same area. If there are no other law firms, dental offices, or advertising firms in the area, there could be a reason for that. Perhaps others have tried and didn’t find it viable for one reason or another.
These are just a few of the things to look for in your new office space. Of course, your company will have its own list of wants, needs, and must-haves. But, this list is a good start and we hope we’ve put you on the path to finding the perfect space!
