Hello there, and welcome to our guide to finding the right workspace for your small business.
The world has taken to remote and coworking in a big way in recent years. However, you can never underestimate the power of physical space.
So today, we’re going to be exploring everything you need to consider. So without further ado, let’s dive right in, shall we?
Necessities v Wants
Below we’re going to be bringing up a lot of things that you need to consider when looking for a workspace for your small business.
But to help you at the end, when the actual search begins, we advise that you split things into two distinct columns: necessities v wants.
Because some things will be essential, for example, in your budget, location, and the right adequate size.
Then there is your wish list – things that aren’t deal breakers – like swimming pools, rooftop terraces and so on.
Time
If you’re operating a small business, it’s best not to get locked into a long-term lease. Your company could outgrow your new premises too quickly, or you could change course and move to remote work. So if you take a short-term lease, you’re not tied into paying for services you outgrow!
Budget
This might seem like stating the obvious, and it probably is. But your budget is the single biggest factor that will dictate the final say of where you go and where you don’t. It’s as simple as that. So consult your coffers, determine a maximum figure, and stick to it!
Size
So, how big a space do you need? We advise that you need 50 square feet per desk and an additional 50 square feet per person for communal areas. Now knowing that, we’ll leave you to do the calculations from here!
Spaces not for Work
Every good workspace needs space that’s not for work. We’re talking about places to recharge your batteries and clear hard-working heads. We’re talking about spaces to eat, relax, and play.
These spaces aren’t just to have effective breaks – and thereby leading to more productive work – it also leads to greater workplace culture. It leads to colleagues who are greater friends, happier workers, and all that great stuff!
To learn more about fostering good company culture, check out these 12 ways to keep your employees happy.
Energy and IT
Of course, every modern business needs the internet and electricity. And probably a lot of it.
How many outlets do you need? How many PCs will you run? What is the internet reception like in the area concerned?
These are things you assume are standard everywhere, but for a high-functioning business, you can’t afford to rely on standard domestic energy outlets and WiFi, you need business-grade capabilities.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a hot topic these days, and for good reason. How important are eco-friendly considerations for you?
Even if you’re not an eco-warrior, we always recommend thinking about sustainability. Because if not for saving the environment, you can save money.
So if you can rent a workspace with solar panels, insulation and so on, your costs are going to look a lot smaller!
Style
So, they say don’t judge a book by its cover, but let’s get real. Style matters. It matters in three ways in this case.
Firstly, the look and feel of your workspace will leave a clear impression on your clients. It’s like an interview. If you turn up in well-fitted and clean formal wear, you’ll kick off with a good impression. If you turn up in pyjamas, you’re never getting that job.
And secondly, the style of your workspace will affect you personally. If it’s the right fit, you’ll feel comfortable and confident, and work better. If it’s not right, your work will have less emphasis.
Again, think about wearing the wrong clothes. If you wear a suit to the gym, you won’t work out effectively. Alternatively, if you wear a suit to bed, it won’t be smooth sleeping. So pick an office that fits the job you’re doing.
And thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, it matters in terms of identity. The workspace you choose will reflect the culture and personality of your small business.
So if you’re an edgy startup, you’ll want a post-industrial venue in an up-and-coming part of town. Alternatively, if you’re a friendly business looking to cultivate class and gravitas, you’ll want to find a cleanly historical building in a respectable part of town, right?
Transport
Of course, you also need to think about how you and your team will get there. Sure, there might be the perfect venue two countries away, but that’s just not practical. So this means you’ll either need a workspace close to public transport or with access to nearby parking. Nobody knows your town or your team better than you, so you’ll know best!
The How
So all this information is all well and good. But where do you go about finding this place planned out in your head? Well, there are plenty of international groups that collate different spaces on their platforms, such as:
- Tallymarket
- Spaces
- Fora
However, this can be time-consuming. If you’d prefer a more personal, bespoke experience, then we recommend you ask a venue expert at Spacehuntr.
If you tell them what you want and where you want it, their experts will get back to you at lightning speed with a hand-curated selection of spaces for you to choose from!
Wrapping up
Well, there you go. We hope you enjoyed our guide to finding the right workspace for your small business. We’ve covered everything from style to budget, and sustainability. We hope you’ve enjoyed it, and good luck with your small business!
