Is it time for a change of scenery? Your office HQ says a lot about your business and it can help build or even damage your image. With so many vibrant locations to choose from in London, it can seem like an overwhelming task deciding on one that works for you. We’ve broken down into the most important steps to take to help you decide on the perfect location for your office HQ.
Affordability
Unfortunately, this factor has to come first. It’s not all bad though because working out your budget will help you narrow down your options and make the decision easier overall. The affordability of the area may also determine the type of clients you attract, which is something to bear in mind. If your ideal clients are start-ups and young creative companies, then an office space in Old Street, London may be both affordable and good for business.
Try before you buy
A useful way to figure out a location that works for your business is to spend some time in different areas and get a feel for them. Stake out what other businesses would be your neighbours and how accessible the area is for both clients and staff members. Are there lots of places nearby that would make for good alternative meeting locations or even coffee shops for your team to explore? Have a look around before you make that final decision and don’t forget to try out some of the local bars while you’re at it!
Culture
So you’ve decided that the local bars and cafés are on brand, and the area is affordable, but what about the culture? The reputation that the area has will affect your company’s image so make sure you ask around to find out what people think and what the area will say about you. The local culture might even determine the types of people who apply to work with you. If you’re on the lookout for innovative and edgy staff members then a shared office space in Shoreditch just might attract who you are looking for.
Make a statement
One final top tip for making that decision is to consider whether you want to blend in or stand out. Whilst it might make sense to choose a location populated with companies similar to yours, it might make more of a statement to go against the grain and pick somewhere a little different.
Whichever way you look at it, your office space is going to be important to your overall business success. It’s important not to rush the decision but to take into account as many of these factors as possible before choosing what is right for your company. If a serviced office space sounds like it might be the right fit for you then we would love to hear from you!
