We believe that access and community form the foundation of success for small businesses: access to what you need when you need it, whether it’s talent, resources, or specific assets; and a community to support you every step of the way. The office space you choose for your business should help you with both. This could manifest as an affordable space for your company in a convenient location. Space with flexible commitment terms and room to grow. Space to innovate, to try new things and learn from what works. Space to meet and connect with like-minded business decision-makers. Space to host clients. A space to belong.
So how can small businesses trust they’ve found that perfect balance of access and community?
Ask yourself these questions before signing a contract:
1. Is your workspace as agile as your business?
Today, businesses of all sizes must be agile, yet real estate often get in the way of this. The cost of sourcing and obtaining real estate is one of a company’s largest expenses, second only to payroll. The money that a company spends on real estate is cash that otherwise could be spent on hiring talent or launching growth initiatives. In the past, a bad office space decision could follow a company for years, sometimes decades, into the future. But with agile real estate, you pay only for the space you need, freeing up valuable funds.
2. Is your workspace allowing you to focus on what matters?
As a small business owner, do you spend more time than you’d wish to on office logistics and operations? Have you had to source a space, then hire contractors to build out and decorate it? Has your time ever been occupied with fixing coffee makers and ordering supplies? If the answer to any of those questions is yes, then you may benefit from a workspace provider that handles these tasks so you can focus on your business.
3. Does your workspace provide the technology your business requires?
In order for your space to enable your employees to do their best work, it needs to be equipped with the right technology, such as high-speed Wi-Fi, printing, full equipped kitchen, and conference rooms. In this way, you and your team can connect with one another as well as your clients (and potential clients). A workspace should offer all of this and make sure it’s all running smoothly.
4. Can you ensure your workspace will help you attract top talent?
Your workspace should be more than just a place where employees gather, it should be an ecosystem that supports productivity and focus. The ideal workspace has a positive vibe that energizes employees. The workspace should also inspire innovation by providing mental stimulation, encourage movement and activity, and provide little moments of delight with beautiful artwork. In addition, your workspace should have a variety of space types so you can choose when and where you work, whether it’s in a common area designed to fuel connection and collaboration or a quieter area for heads-down work.
5. Is your office location convenient for you and your team?
When it comes to an office commute, time is money. That’s why it’s important to select a strategic location for your workspace, close to public transportation, with easy access from any area. This means increased quality and convenience for your teams. Plus, think of the good impression your clients will have when they visit you.
6. Does your workspace include a community to support and grow your business?
Small business leaders and their teams don’t have to go it alone. It’s important to consider joining a workspace with built-in community. This community becomes your extended network, from which you can source talent, vendors, partners, and advice.
Whether you need a hot desk, a dedicated desk, or a private office, HQGC meets all of these factors. Our amenities, technology, community, location, and intentionally designed workspace help you and your employees do your best work and focus on growing your business.
