The Ultimate List Of Tips For Setting Up Your Start-Up Office
When your business grows to a certain level you’ll need to think about moving into a dedicated office space. This article from Chloe Smith covers some of the things that you might not have thought of when it comes to kitting our your Start-Up office
If you are looking into opening an office, it must mean that your very own business is slowly becoming a reality. Congratulations! But before you go spending all of your hard-earned savings setting up the perfect workspace, have a read though these suggestions. There might just be a few things you haven’t yet considered, that could take your office to the next level.
Set Up a Play Area
If getting up to leave the office for an hour or two isn’t an option, then you have to create an area to relax in. Everyone needs a break, at least to stretch your legs or eat something. Your office needs a lunch area or just a place to rest. Breaks are healthy and boost productivity. Sometimes you need to get away from the computer screen in order to come up with the next great idea. Although you may not be able to afford a game room, throwing in a kettle and microwave, some beanbags and a radio could be a simpler solution.
Celebrate Your Employees
They work hard for you and no matter how small the achievement, you should attach some importance to it. This is a way to thank your employees for their work and let them know that they are a part of the company’s success. It will give everyone a chance to wind down, and form friendships. Organize team building or social events, that will enable your employees to mingle and get to know one another outside of work. Throw a “Welcome-to-the-new-office” party!
Invest in Furniture
Think about the pieces that you need. Although you may want to go for trendy designer furniture, if cash is an issue (which it probably is), you could save a ton by purchasing used furniture such as filing cabinets or desks. You can easily upgrade later. The one thing that you do not want to neglect is the importance of a quality chair. Make sure everyone in the office has the right chair so that they may work in peace for long periods at their desks. How you set the monitor and desk up is equally important.
Don’t Skimp on Tools
You may be able to cut a few corners on furniture and décor, but you need to make sure certain equipment is top conch- ready and able to be used. It is essential that you invest in things such as computers, phones, printers and copy machines. Remember that you have to be in tune with today’s market and business standards. Everything is digitized. A good internet connection, set up prior to moving into your office is a must. Of course, this also depends on the needs of your business. Do you need other machinery to make your product? The tools that help you need to be safe and in working order.
Save on the Space
At this point you may not want, need or be able to afford a proper business district office with a prime location. What you need to focus on now is creating your product and structuring your business. Start by looking into alternatives such as great storage solutions where you are able to rent a unit to use as the headquarters for your business. You don’t have to splurge on a traditional location at the moment. As your company grows, the number of employees increases and cash starts to flow, you can slowly move into a fancier place.
Make Sure You are in Control
Once you have decided on a space, it’s time to lay out some rules. You must have some procedures in place to build up on. Although you may feel that it isn’t a priority at the moment, it the long run once your business expands, you will be thankful that you took the time to think things through. What type of image do you want to build? How do you prefer things are done? Guidelines and order will also make your employees feel more secure and happy with their jobs.
Your first office does not need to be perfect. It needs to be functional. A place where your mind is at peace and your business can thrive. Make sure you have enough of everything but there is no need to overdo it.