One of the best moments in your small business is when you grow beyond simply using your den or basement and rent office space. But keep these things in mind as you make the move into your new space…

Not Taking Visibility Into Account

How visible should your new work space be? Some offices can be more hidden, as they are primarily for doing work alone that requires concentration. For operations that require consultation, such as with clients, having a more visible and easily located office space is more important. Visibility and easy access from the street often impacts the cost of an office’s rent, so this is an important consideration.

Ignoring Space Requirements

How much space do you need for your new office? If you are going to be storing large amounts of physical documentation or specialized equipment, you will need a larger office than if you simply need a desk and chairs. Mentally rehearse your day, and determine whether your intended space fits the bill for what you need. Then add 50 to 100 square feet to your intended space in anticipation of unexpected variables you may be forgetting at the moment. It is rare that extra space goes unused for long.

Group Dynamics

Will you be working in your office solo, or do you have a team who will be working there? Will only one person be in the office at a time, or will the team cohabitate? Even partners need some physical separation between their desks for morale purposes. Even if you are a highly collaborative company, human beings need personal space to be their most successful.

Timeframe

How long will you need your office space? If you are looking for the short term, you will likely want to avoid customizing the space beyond basic decoration and your furniture. If you want a longer-term option, you may be able to negotiate a lower rent. Landlords value stability, so signing a multi-year lease can be advantageous for you both if you anticipate your growth being slower and steadier.