There comes a time when your business takes the next step: finding office space.

Whether it’s a new space or an upgrade, there are a few things beyond just “location” that you should consider.

It’s important to ensure that the space you choose is not only right for your defined company culture, but for the people who work for you and the customers you are trying to attract, too.

You see, a permanent office space has the ability to establish your legitimacy as a business, right? Totally – and it’s a challenging and exciting phase to be in. To cultivate the right type of growth your business needs, you need to find the right type of space.

If you’re about to take a leap of faith, there are a few questions you should ask yourself first.

1. Where Can I Attract the Most Foot Traffic?

If foot traffic is your thing, then, of course, it’s all about location, location, location. But what about when you’re in an office block? Well, then you need to look for areas with highly accessible parking spaces for those very NB meetings.

If you’re in Cape Town, it never hurts to be slap bang in the middle of the CBD.

2. Where Are My Employees?

You really should consider where the majority of your employees live. While travelling might be required for some, you don’t want the majority to either frequently get stuck in traffic, feel cut off from public transport or have to pay out of pocket for parking space. Their needs are as important as your business.

3. Will It Send the Right Message?

First impressions are important, there’s no doubt it. If you are down with inviting potential customers into a rundown place that appears cheap and tattered, then you might put off potential customers.

You want a space where you’re stoked to invite people to pop past – just take a look at the entrance hall to the Cartel House, for example:

4. How Much Space Do I Really Need?

You have found the ideal office, but it’s either too small or too big. You need to come to the realisation that it’s time to let it go, because you actually need to utilise the space you are paying for.

While there are ways and means to work out just the right amount of office space you need, Cartel House will assist you and create a space in which your office fits perfectly.

5. Are There Any Hidden Charges?

Leasing an independent space can get a bit messy, especially when it comes to those hidden add-ons that were in the teeny tiny small print of that contract you signed ages ago. Make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.

At the end of the day, you need to evaluate all your options to find the perfect office space for you and your employees – and don’t forget to rely on your intuition.

Cartel House offers a membership to suit the needs of everyone, from individuals looking to hot desk, to companies who enjoy sharing communal spaces like the Library, above.

Pop over HERE for all your options, and maybe we will see you around some time.

[source:tech]