So, you’ve decided to open your own business. Congratulations! It’s terrific you’re expanding. Now you just need the ideal office space, and you’ll need a few pointers on how to navigate this exciting step. 

Let’s take a look at a few logistical matters around opening a successful office space. 

1. Pick a Suitable Location

An excellent location can go a long way in securing your business’s success. Consider what sort of location would automatically work better for your kind of business. For example, setting up a high tech computer company in the countryside may not be the most well-laid plan. Make sure the area wants or needs what you have to offer. 

Here are some other tips to follow:

• Ensure you are in a safe, popular area that is easy for your target clients to find. 
• Make sure the site is readily accessible, with convenient road and other transport links. 
• It would be best if you also considered resource availability nearby, including business supplies and the right employees. 

2. How Much Space? 

Remember to consider any storage needs and the possibility of expansion when looking at office size. Make sure any existing staff will be comfortably accommodated, and then think about whether it’s possible to expand the space once your staff grows. 

Don’t go for a massive space unless it’s necessary though, as more than likely you will be paying for something you don’t use. 

3. Health and Safety

When setting up your new workspace, you need to educate yourself about implementing the health and safety requirements for your area. One of the most important things to know is fire safety and air quality requirements. 

If you have employees in an office space for long hours during the day, you need to make sure the air quality is optimal on an ongoing basis. You can achieve this by researching important documents, ranging from the U.S. sexual harassment laws to the essential commercial HVAC maintenance checklist.

While each country may be slightly different, you typically also need to make sure your space complies with the following:

• An internal health and safety manager is appointed
• A company health and safety policy is in place, and employees are aware of it
• Assess the risk factors of your business space
• Employees are provided with relevant training to minimize the risk factor
• All facilities are in good order
• All facilities are kept sanitary
• The business has liability insurance

4. To Rent or Buy?

This question will undoubtedly come up when you are setting up shop. The answering of the query is a personal choice. It also depends on your financial situation. There is no right or wrong answer here; essentially, it’s all about what is best for you and your business’ needs. 

Buying a space is more costly, but:

• You have more autonomy about what you can do to the building
• Your monthly costs will be an investment that you can cash in on later

However, if things go wrong, your costs could skyrocket without a landlord to help break the fall. 

By renting, any significant maintenance costs will typically be the responsibility of the property owner. This could save you a lot of stress and money if you are just starting. 

5. Come Up with a Management Plan

Once you have settled all the above, you will need to implement an office management plan. You will also require a person or team to manage the office. If it is a satellite office, you may not be there all the time, so you’ll need someone you can trust. 

You may be tempted to find staff on your own, but it’s best to hire an employment agency that can oversee the application process. Trust us; you’ll have more pressing matters on your plate.

Bottom Line

There’s no denying that these five tasks will keep you busy. However, these are all essential steps towards opening your dream business.

Keep your goals specific and stay focused on these five important must-do’s before your first day as your own boss!