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Looking for Your First Office Space? Here’s What You Mustn’t Forget

 

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Moving into your first office space is an exciting time in your life, both personally and professionally. It can signal the launch of a new startup or the growth of an existing business, both of which are reasons to celebrate.

However, your office space has a major impact on your operations, so it’s important to hone your selection criteria. With this in mind, take a look at the things you mustn’t forget when you’re looking for your first office space:

1. Location Matters

If you’re going to be meeting with prospective or existing clients, it’s important to choose a location that’s convenient and accessible. Being situated in the nearest financial or tech district could be advantageous if you operate in these industries, for example.

2. Safety and Security

Office safety might not be the first thing you think about when you’re scoping out new workplaces but it’s one of the most important aspects of your premises. With OWS fire rated products, you can ensure that your new office is well-protected. As well as keeping you safe at work, enhanced safety measures can also reduce insurance premiums and save you money in the long-term.

Similarly, effective physical security will keep your office, equipment, and documentation safe from prying eyes. As well as enhanced locks, you may want to consider keyless entry systems and CCTV for your office and surrounding areas.

3. Access to Resources

Depending on your business, you may need access to a variety of resources. However, virtually all businesses rely on high-speed internet access, along with printers, scanners, and other IT equipment. If you’re going to be sharing office space, you’ll want to find out exactly what resources are available prior to signing any contracts. In addition to this, be sure to determine whether the cost of access to resources is built into the rental price or if you’ll be required to pay extra for these services.

4. Reception and Telephone Answering

If you’re purchasing or renting an office in a dedicated block or suite, you may benefit from a manned reception space, along with a telephone answering service. However, this isn’t available in all office facilities. If you think it will be beneficial for you and your business, be sure to make this a key criterion when you’re searching for office space.

5. Cost

When you’re looking for a new workspace, don’t be afraid to negotiate when it comes to price. Whether you’re renting or buying, you’ll want to ensure you get a good deal. Although the cost of your office should be tax-deductible, you don’t want to spend more than you need to. Researching the market and balancing the pros and cons of being situated in an expensive, but well-known, area can help you to determine your budget.

Finding the Right Office Space

If you can’t find the perfect office space straight away, don’t panic. It’s worth waiting for the right workspace to come along and, when it does, you can be confident that it’s the ideal base for your growing business.

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