If you are taking the plunge and searching for a suitable workspace for your new business, or are an established company looking to expand or downsize, there are some important steps you need to take.
Location
When deciding on an area for your new office or workspace, chances are you have a rough idea of where you want to be. It is essential that it is located in an area with good transport links; it must be convenient for you, your employees, and visitors to travel to. Consider the area as a whole – does it have a good vibe with great local amenities like shops, restaurants, and cafes close by for lunch breaks or entertaining clients?
There are many areas on the outskirts of central London that have great commuter connections by rail, bus, and road, so it may be worthwhile considering alternative up-and-coming areas. These tend to be more affordable and are less congested than the centre of London.
Size
The size of your workspace will be determined by the number of people working in that area. Guidelines suggest a minimum of 6.97 metres of office space per person per desk is necessary. This is by no means a generous allocation, and you should consider that if any of your employees only visit the office a couple of days a week, a shared desk may be a more economical option.
Budget
This is a major factor when it comes to your search. You may want to be in the centre of London, but be aware that the more central an office, the higher the premium is likely to be. Research into the price of office space in different locations is key to knowing which areas realistically match your budget.
Get Your Team Onboard
If you have a team who will be there every day, it may be good to get some input from them. Are you and your employees a particularly sociable bunch? In that case, it may be important to have local bars to visit after work. Perhaps your workforce would appreciate some green space to enjoy on their lunch break, or are your employees shopaholics that desire some decent retail on the doorstep?
Don’t Rush It
Take your time and look at various options. When you find a workspace of interest, ensure you have a clear understanding of what services are included in the rental and what services you will need to budget for over and above your rent. Some rented workspaces include shared kitchen facilities and meeting rooms, which may be beneficial to your business.
What Next?
If you are looking for great, affordable office or light industrial space, Unit Management has a comprehensive selection of business centres across South West London and Surrey for businesses of all types and sizes, from 100 sq. ft. up to 2,500 sq. ft.
For more than 50 years, we have provided the highest level of service to our clients, establishing strong relationships with mutual trust and respect.
Call us today on 0203 725 7900 to speak to one of our friendly team who will be happy to assist you in finding a new home for your business.
