Whether you are a start-up company or a corporate giant, your office address speaks volumes about your company and can give you credibility in a competitive market place. The location of your office is exceptionally important as it creates an impression for your clients and illustrates your company’s success.
Sought-after office space in London’s prime business district may not be available on a limited budget, but there are several key considerations that need to be addressed when choosing a desirable location.
Location, location, location
The importance of a good location cannot be stressed enough and although you may not be able to immediately afford offices in the most prestigious areas, be aware of the neighbourhood you choose and any implications its reputation may have on your business.
In addition to location affecting your reputation you also need to consider if your desired location is actually suitable for your business. If possible, try and observe the area at several different times of the day and ensure that the neighbourhood or district you have chosen doesn’t suffer from extremely heavy traffic, blocked roads, or any other negative factors. Your neighbours are a great indication of what to expect and if there are other businesses in the area that are flourishing this is always a good sign.
Commuting and accessibility
Your offices should not only be accessible to your staff, they should be easily accessible to clients too. Before you sign a lease check whether there are nearby tube stations, if you are on a bus route, or if adequate parking is available.
Public transport is an exceptionally common method of commuting and many Londoners won’t venture further out if they have to drive, or if they feel they may experience any sort of inconvenience. It’s also important that you research any planned closures for road, rail and tube as you don’t want these to affect the journey to your offices.
Competition and clients
Your chosen office space should be attractive to clients and project the image of your company in as positive a light as possible. If you can afford any of the office space Moorgate has to offer, where you are on the doorstep of London’s financial district and the fringe of the booming creative district, you will find yourself in good company. However it is important, even in the most thriving business districts to ensure that you have not positioned yourself too close to a competitor.
Before renting office space it’s advisable that you examine where your competitors are located and determine whether the neighbourhood you are contemplating will put you at an advantage over them. If there are any foreseeable problems with competitors its best to search for alternative space in order to reduce the chance of conflict.
Once you have settled on a suitable location you can map out an office floor plan and decide what layout will work best for you and your employees. A comfortable work environment is vital to your success and will ensure that clients feel at home when visiting.
There are many other minor factors that can influence your choice of office, but these key factors can guide you into making a decision that’s right for you, and your business.
