What to Consider If You’re Planning to Move To a New Business Building
Similar to moving from one house to another, moving to a new business building can be just as stressful. There are many things to do before, during and after the move. For one, you need to make sure that the business’ operations are not compromised in any way because this can become the reason why a business can lose customers and create a negative image in the eyes of the public. You also have to guarantee that the business can operate as soon as possible after moving. Taking too much time to rearrange every equipment brought to the new business building might mean losing money for the business. Sure, moving to a new business building is a challenging feat but there are many ways on how you can make the entire process easier and faster.
The entire idea of moving from one location to another can become tedious and boring. However, when the move is done for a business, you’ll be required to so much more. You’ll have to think about the employees, customers and the image of the business building itself. Disregarding any of these can adversely affect the business in the long run. To ensure that you’re moving to a new office building will be as smooth as possible, consider the following:
- Be proactive: If you’re a business owner, it’s important that you’re proactive when it comes to the available space in your office. If you see your employees rubbing elbows because their desks are close to each other or if you’re having any problems where a newly-hired employee will sit, it’s a telltale sign that you need to move to a new business building right away.
- The space in your office is important for your business’ success. If your employees are already too cramped up in the office, the quality and quantity of production, customer service, and turnover rates might be affected adversely.
- If you have plans in growing your business exponentially in the coming years, start scouting for possible locations for the move. Doing this ahead of time can save your business’ reputation as your operations will not be disrupted when you start to hire more employees.
- Set your budget: Money is an important resource in any business. Before heading out and looking for possible business buildings for the move, set up your budget first. Determine how much you are going to pay for the move and everything involved in the process. Regardless if you’re planning to rent or buy a new business building, always prepare a budget for emergencies. Speak with three different companies and ask them what your specific move would cost. By gathering these moving estimates you will be better able to budget your trip.
- Decide if you’re going to buy or lease a new business building: Both buying and leasing a new business building has its own set of pros and cons. This is an important decision to make before you can finally start your search for possible locations. Leasing a new business building can be appropriate for small businesses who are still testing the waters, who has limited capital or for those who are still uncertain of their space needs in the future. Buying a new business building, on the other hand, can be suitable for businesses who are already established in the industry and has a steady income already.
- Take time to research locations: With your budget, you can determine suitable locations for your new office building. While it can be tempting to overspend the moment you see an appealing and aesthetically-pleasing business building, don’t do it. This can only create a domino effect on your business which may compromise your budget and operations over time. Where will you be moving is important as this can affect your business in more ways than one.
- Aside from the budget, consider the accessibility of the location. Can first-time customers easily see your location or do they need to ask for directions? Are there parking spaces nearby? Will the location be convenient for receiving and shipping items? Make sure that your new business building can accommodate all of these.
- Additionally, you shouldn’t overlook your employees’ needs. If most of your employees own a bike, determine if space has appropriate areas for bikes. If your employees are taking the daily commute to and from work, assess if the area is accessible to trains or taxis. The location should also be safe for all of your employees especially if their working shifts end in the wee hours of the morning.
- If you’re planning to stay in the location for good, consider if it can support expansions. Does the business building have necessary permits so you can add more floors in the future? Are there any nearby spaces where the building can expand? The surrounding of the business building is just as important especially if you’re seeing your business grow.
- Negotiate effectively: Moving to a new business building is not only stressful physically but mentally as well. Aside from the time and effort, you have to pour in for the move, you have to think carefully about the negotiations you’re getting yourself into. During this process, it’s best if you hire real estate advisors or real estate lawyers. Their professional services might come with a price but their help can go a very long way. Your stressed will be minimized, you’ll have time to take care of other aspects of the business, and you can be assured that your move will be free from any legal responsibilities. In short, hiring real estate advisors and real estate lawyers be a cost-efficient solution for your move.
- Create a timeline: The move can become easier if everyone in the company works together. Once you know where you’re moving, create a timeline for everyone. The timeline can include a schedule for renovations (if needed), setting up equipment in the new business building, buying new furniture, making signs and marketing the new address to your customers. There should also be a person responsible for each of these tasks. When everyone is engaged in the move, the transition can come easier.
- Communicate, communicate, communicate: Communication is key when moving to a new business building. Since there are many people involved in the business, you should be able to tell them necessary updates about the move. Everyone should be on the same page. For example, if you finally have a schedule when the move will happen, inform your employees about it. This will give them ample time to prepare and adjust. You should also inform your suppliers and customers of the move. Don’t let the move become the reason why you suddenly cut ties with them. Remember, your employees, suppliers, and customers are vital components of the business.
Final Thoughts
Moving to a new business building is easier said than done. Sure, moving might mean that your business is growing but there is a long list of to-dos before you, and your employees can finally enjoy a new business building. And most often than not, the move will not be complete in a few days – it’ll require weeks before a business can finally resume its operations after the move! Let this article help you make things easier for you when you’re moving to a new business building.
Sanju kmr