When to Move Your Business From Your Basement to an Office

It’s almost the end of the year and your business has finally taken off to the extent that 2014 could mean a new office space and a new beginning! But before making the big move, you and your business partner needs to make a checklist of questions that you consider important before making a final decision.

1.   Are you and your business partner really short of space?
The biggest concern any business has is space. How much is enough? And when does space really become important? The rule of thumb is simple — if you are having difficulty locating things and are easily suffocated, it’s time you look for a bigger space. Research shows that a minimalist desk with almost no clutter largely improves productivity. So, instead of cramping your style, why not move to a bigger space? More importantly, once you start hiring employees, we doubt they’d consider basement work an employee perk!

2.   You need to start meeting clients and a basement doesn’t cut it for a conference room
This is probably the biggest question you and your business partner will ask. Of course, we have heard that many small businesses meet with clients at outside locations which have dedicated conference spaces, but why waste time driving and figuring out rental or membership fees when you can have your own conference space.

3.   You have the money and have made allocations in your budget for certain key essentials
Enough can’t be said about how important a budget is to making a big move, but we wouldn’t be having this conversation if you hadn’t already planned for this. In any case, while making your budget, think about the following key essentials for your office space:

a.   Hardware, Computer, Servers
If you business is technology dependent, your budget should account for desktops, printers, fax machines (yes, people still use those!), and other important hardware. Also, don’t forget to take into account simple expenses such as office supplies (printer paper, pencils, pens, staplers, etc.). Everything adds up quickly.

b.   Air conditioning
You might think you don’t need an AC but trust us — a cool room is a comfortable room! Research shows that with an AC, worker productivity and efficiency is significantly better than without one. Get some quotes and set aside some money, because if you are thinking of having a happy workplace, an AC is a must.

4.   You have the motivation to make it big
We can’t complete this list without adding one more point that is rather obvious — without the zeal and passion to embrace your company’s growth, moving will be an absolute nightmare. And as rightfully pointed out at the start of this post, opening your new office space will start a whole new chapter to your business life. Good luck!

Do you have plans to move your small business from your home to a real office in the new year? What are your thought, fears and aspirations? Let us know in the comments below, or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Google+.

Author Bio: Amy Rhodes is a small business owner and writing about small businesses is one of her many entrepreneurial ventures. She currently writes for Andrews Air Conditioner. She loves picking the human mind and often uses her findings to develop novel business ideas.