Location Location Makes a Difference - 01/03/2007
officebroker.com is the UK's largest online provider of commercial office space bringing serviced office space providers and commercial property landlords together with businesses looking for serviced or flexi office space anywhere in the world. The company, which was founded by entrepreneurs Jim Venables and Andy Haywood five years ago, has grown into a multi-million pound enterprise with offices in the UK and US, and plans to launch a division in Hong Kong in 2007.
According to Jim Venables, businesses looking to take on an office tenancy should apply a highly strategic and considered approach in both searching for the right premises and then managing the resulting space.
"Instead of jumping in feet first and taking the first available office space, we advise businesses to take their time as the right location can make or break a business," says Jim.
"Being a good tenant is like being a good neighbour - not only will it bring social benefits to the company and its employees, but it can also reap considerable business benefits such as being the first to hear about new business leads or great deals with local suppliers."
officebroker.com offers the following advice to office tenants looking to find the right office space and make the most of their tenancy:
Before you make a decision....
- Consider a short-term and flexible notice-period;
- Think of your employees' needs as well as those of your business;
- Ensure there are ample parking facilities;
- Find out what extras are included in your tenancy;
- Will you be looking for offices in multiple locations?;
- Don't just go for the first office you see... shop around and consider
different areas and styles of building;
- Remember to cover your office contents with an insurance policy - your business centre will only provide insurance cover for the actual building.
So you've found your dream office. What next?
Meet the people who really count - developing a good relationship with the facilities or services manager for example, can mean you are given priority over other tenants.
Never underestimate the importance of developing a good relationship with reception staff - in a serviced office environment they are the first point of contact customers have with your organisation. Make sure they understand your business and the approach you like to take with potential customers. Importantly, don't forget to keep them up to date with company developments and the movement of personnel.
Get to know your neighbours - attend any networking opportunities organised within the centre and make a point of introducing your company's services to the other businesses.
"There is much to be gained from locating the right office space and developing great relationships within it" says Jim.
"Take your time, do your research and think about what other rewards you can reap before taking the plunge. And remember that while good relationships can only benefit your business, poor relationships can cause considerable harm not have an affect not just from an operational perspective but also in terms of reputation."
