Our 4 Tips for Finding the Ideal Location for Your Offices
Written by Clara Moreau 3 min read
Buying or renting professional offices is a key step for a company. In terms of cost, efficiency, and future growth, it's a decision that can greatly impact the development of your business. To help you make the right choice for the relocation of your company's premises, we reveal 4 tips for finding the offices that suit you.
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1. Consider the mobility needs of your employees
The first factor to consider is the location of the future offices. You must choose the sector according to the mobility needs of your employees. If possible, prefer central districts and/or those well served by public transport.
Not to mention that offices located in dynamic neighborhoods represent a great opportunity to attract and retain skilled employees. If you intend to regularly employ interns, it is recommended not to choose offices too far from schools. Car or bicycle parking is also welcome, as is the proximity of shops and a gym.
2. Anticipate potential client receptions
Choosing offices in a central and well-served area is not only beneficial for your employees: if you need to regularly receive clients, they will also appreciate being able to come easily. Favoring an economically attractive geographical area can be very positive for your company's image, especially thanks to the standing of the premises and the reputation of the neighborhood.
Also consider providing spaces for collective or individual meetings to receive your prospects and clients in the best conditions. The layout of your premises greatly contributes to conveying your values. For example, if your professional activity is related to sustainable development, favor eco-responsible premises and furniture.
3. List your needs in terms of surfaces and living spaces
You have visited nice offices, in a pleasant building and neighborhood? The problem is that you lack the space for the two management offices you need. To optimize your search and only visit properties that perfectly match your criteria, list what you already have and what you lack in terms of space. Once this is done, pass this list on to your corporate real estate advisor if you have one.
Anticipate your needs as much as possible, such as meeting rooms, relaxation areas, the presence of a dining room and a kitchen, etc. If your company organizes events, you should also think about a terrace or a reception area. Analyze and evaluate the company's development prospects to assess the needs in terms of surface area and positions in the short and medium term. Do not forget to take into account the potential expansion of the company and anticipate the arrival of new employees.
4. Ask for the opinion of your employees
Your employees will be the first impacted by the office move, and their well-being at work should not be neglected. Indeed, well-being means productivity. Before you start looking for offices, ask them to determine what they need: comfortable spaces, ergonomic desks, phone booths, cafeterias, coworking spaces, partitioned offices, etc. Employee feedback is the most valuable source of information, and it would be a shame to miss out on it.
In addition, by involving them in the choice of future offices, you encourage collective thinking and value their needs. Show them that their opinion matters and that you are trying to find solutions to facilitate their adaptation in this stressful stage that a professional move can represent.
Finding the ideal location for your offices by using a business real estate advisor
A commercial real estate advisor positions themselves as an expert in professional property. They can advise you on several aspects: legal recommendations, office layout, choosing the right area, technical aspects, etc.
The surface area display standard, office property prices, the split of charges between owner and tenant, article 606 of the Civil Code, and the important clauses to negotiate in your future lease: this expert masters all these aspects and answers all your questions.
Among existing players, there are the major historical firms such as CBRE or JLL. Among them, Spliit is a startup whose mission is to reinvent the office rental experience. This dynamic new player gives you access to all market offers as well as real-time tracking of your project. Their real estate experts advise you with a dedicated expert for precise, tailor-made support.