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How to find flexible office space to suit your business needs

Dominic Lill ,  ,  ,  ,  , 

Facility management plays a crucial role in employee performance and business growth. However, this aspect is often neglected.

According to research, air conditioning systems and buildings affect the comfort level and productivity in the workplace. That’s why making the right choice for flexible office space is vital to attain the best working environment. 

flexible office space

Every successful business has a flexible office space that promotes employees’ productivity, and you’ll learn how to find one for you by reading these steps below:

Step one: Choose the right location

Location and accessibility are the most important factors when choosing a flexible office space. For instance, an office space Gateshead is an accessible location that can significantly contribute to the success of your business. Gateshead is just five minutes away from Newcastle, where people come and go to do different business transactions.

Having a flexible office means you have the best place where your employees can work smoothly. It should be accessible both by private and public transportation. Also, it must be located in a business district and close to establishments, like restaurants, malls. Coffee shops and bars that contribute to accessibility and improve employee morale.

Most often, the lack of parking spaces and traffic are the major concerns for employees. Tardiness result not only to wasted time but also employee performance and the overall sales of a business. If you want to have a  flexible office space to best suit your business needs, you may want to consider the following amenities:

  • On-site car parking
  • 24/7 accessibility
  • Access to meeting rooms and other office amenities
  • Flexible contract or leasing agreement

Step two: Determine the right size and layout of the office you need

One thing you have to consider when choosing a flexible office is the size of your company. Never crowd your workers into a tiny space. Make sure that there’s enough room to breathe. On the other hand, don’t overspend on an office space that is too huge for your current business needs.

Here are some tips when determining the right size of the office space you need:

  • Every employee must have at least 21 square meters of space. So, if you have 20 employees, look for an office space which is around 420 square meters.
  • The size of your office should also take into consideration the type of business, workload, and activities your workers perform regularly. Does the job require your employees to maneuver themselves or move around? Do your employees need individual private cubicle to focus on what needs to be accomplished at the end of the day?
  • It’s important to consider the layout and design of the office space. Check the office for the following factors: proper ventilation, air quality, lighting, noise and acoustics, proximity to nature, and look and feel.  All of these factors significantly impact employee engagement, productivity, and satisfaction.

Step three: Know the technology and infrastructure the office building has to offer

Fast and reliable internet connectivity is an essential factor when choosing the right office space, most especially if you need to email, chat, or video conference to your clients and business partners every now and then. Telecommunications play a vital role in the success of your business.

You might consider a shared office space if you have a startup business with a small team. It will save you money and let you subsidize the equipment and utilities with other tenants. Also, you can develop partnerships with other businesses for growth and development.

Step four: Know the leasing terms

Checking the leasing contract or agreement is a crucial aspect of searching the most flexible office space for your business. Know what’s included in the lease. Don’t forget to set the right budget for extra fees and costs, including the moving expenses, utility bills, maintenance and repair costs, construction costs, insurance and value added tax or VAT on rent. Also, you need a comprehensive tenant or renter’s insurance for your protection.

Here are some tips when analyzing the leasing terms:

  • Make sure that all provisions and verbal agreements are written in the lease.
  • Find out who is responsible for maintenance and repairs.
  • Make sure to read every sentence in the lease, most especially the part where money matter is concerned.
  • Check if the lease agreement provides fair and clear terms when it comes to exit or lease termination. Some situations may prompt you to terminate your lease or exit, so you have to check the leasing terms.
  • Ask about any contingency plans available should calamities or untoward events happen.

Conclusion

A flexible office space means you have an accessible location for your employees and customers, within a business district, including all the technology and infrastructure you need for your business operations. It should possess the amenities and facilities you need to keep your employees happy and motivated to work to sustain productivity and prosper growth. Choose the right size and layout, so your employees and customers feel comfortable. Lastly, don’t forget to read the fine lines before signing anything.