Choosing Office Space for a Growing Business
When it comes to business, you may have heard the expression, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” It speaks to your willingness to think ahead, create a good impression, and allow people to see you in the most flattering light.
This adage is typically referenced when discussing job interviews. Still, if you’re a small business owner, the same mentality can apply just as easily to your choice of office space.
Who Needs Commercial Office Space?
For a growing number of small-business operators, the need for a suitable workspace outside their homes is critical. So, what should an aspiring business owner do when searching for more space in a more impressive environment?
Retailers and manufacturers may find their options more regimented. However, the possibilities for a growing number of office professionals may be broader; these companies include:
- Tech startups
- Entrepreneurs
- Accountants
- Construction contractors
- Creatives
- Designers
- Marketers
- Freelancers in every field
- Day traders
- Programmers
- Independent lawyers
No matter your business, your choice of location deserves careful consideration.
Think Realistically About the Present
If your business requires garage space or warehouse space, you won’t seek an office on the 16th floor of an office tower for the prestige factor.
This is an extreme example of an incorrect choice. Still, sometimes, in the excitement of finding a good deal or out of desperation to get set up, you may select a space that appeals more to your long-term aspirations than your current needs.
Assuming you’ve reached the point where a home-based business no longer makes sense, you’ll first need to determine which type of building is most appropriate.
Is your business public-facing? If so, that will factor heavily in your decision-making process. You need to ensure your chosen base of operations will impress your customers and put them at ease.
Whether you’re a sole proprietor or you have staff working for you, you need a location with enough space to operate efficiently. You’ll also require a space that’s suitable not just for you and your current team but also for any potential hires in the not-so-distant future.
When Thinking Location, Think Amenities
No matter how new or established you are, you always want a location that gives you the best bang for your buck. A location such as the The Westlund Building offers all of the following:
- A convenient, easy-to-find location
- A safe and secure spot in a pleasant neighbourhood
- A place you feel comfortable
- Privacy
- Reliable internet
- Convenient parking
- A mailing address
- Windows and light
- Nearby amenities such as eateries, gas stations, corner stores, office supply retailers, or other businesses that supply your company
- Convenient kitchen amenities
- Clean bathrooms
- Reputable neighbours in the same building
- Provided furnishings to cut costs
Some of the items listed above are more wants than requirements, but it’s important to be happy in your place of business. Making a list of what’s personally important to you could help you narrow down your options.
The Importance of Layout & Feel
Think about the things you may not necessarily require every day, yet they offer substantial value when the time calls for them. You need space to grow and move around within the same building.
- Break rooms
- Conference areas
- Options for expansion
- An outdoor space to unwind
- Areas for hosting multiple guests
The benefits of choosing wisely can result in a healthy, productive, and happy workplace mindset. These results contribute to a stronger business culture, the positive outlook of employees, and the confidence of your customers. Your location is a key contributor to your business’s success. You need a space you can be proud of to accentuate your services!
Consider a Location You Can Grow Into
Ultimately, you need a space that offers the flexibility to accommodate your growth. That doesn’t necessarily mean more room (although that is a positive); it’s more about leasing from a company that will enable you to scale, but always on your terms.
If you’re a new business, a homebase in a reputable building gives you credibility in the industry. Finding the perfect location gives you an established business headquarters, which adds to your identity and brand.
The nomadic lifestyle isn’t for everyone. For most of us, moving is a hassle and an expense. As a customer, it’s always frustrating when you arrive at a place of business only to discover they have moved. Like customers everywhere, your clientele expects consistency, reliability, and predictability. It’s harder to convey that dependability and trustworthiness when you don’t have an apparent address, or you’re constantly moving.
Attracting and retaining new talent and customers is essential for companies to stay profitable. Regardless of industry, the key to business success lies in giving your clients exactly what they want.
Coworking Spaces Can Make Sense for Your Vancouver Business
You may not be ready to hire a real estate agent to find you a lease. Not every lease requires an agent, but it also puts the burden back on you to locate appropriate business accommodations in a timely manner. If you’d rather focus on your customers than the details of Lower Mainland real estate, co-op coworking spaces can be a good option.
Coworking spaces provide contemporary office spaces with shared front desks and communal working environments. The pay-for-what-you-need model has proven very effective for startups and established companies needing a solution for remote workers.
Of course, prime locations in the heart of downtown may not be exactly what you want, with their expensive parking and inflated pricing. Many Vancouver-based businesses reside outside the city’s boundaries.
The Benefits of Thinking Outside Vancouver for Your New Business Home
Finding contemporary, centrally located buildings in nearby Lower Mainland communities offers a wider variety of budget-friendly options. If you’re hoping to narrow your search down even further, we suggest starting your search along 200th Street in Langley, B.C.
The Westlund Building welcomes a range of businesses. It is already home to a wireless communications dealer, medi-spa & salon, digital marketing agency, and others.
You’ll enjoy a highly visible location that’s easy to find and all the desirable amenities that make work fun. The Westlund Building offers beneficial connections within the same building, along with on-site resources that can enhance your business journey, including a professional podcasting studio, experienced TELUS provider, and bookable rooftop patio space for staff parties or entertaining clients.
Who doesn’t want the cool, spacious, upscale office, like something you’d see in your favourite TV show or movie? The Westlund Group can make it so. Book your tour today.