For several years, I operated my company from the comfort of my own home. It was a highly convenient set up, as I was able to look after my children throughout the day, taking them to and from school as my wife went out to work. However, as time went on and the business expanded, my small office simply could not cope with the demands of my clientele. Eventually, I decided it was time to expand.
I was loathed to either purchase or hire a large office with a long term commitment attached, as I was still a small operation with only two other employees. Working from home was no longer feasible, however, as we simply didn’t have enough space. Also, as the kids were both at secondary school by this point, I felt I was no longer required to be at home for such a large part of the day.
After doing some research on the Internet, I decided that the best action to take would be to hire a serviced office to begin with at least. This was for several reasons:
1. A serviced office is an office where everything is in place. Furniture is installed, telephone lines are up and running, the Internet works and you are basically all set to go.
2. A reception service is provided, so your phones will be answered in the name of your company.
3. You can choose precisely how much space you need, whether it’s a 2 man office or a whole floor for your company that you’re after.
4. Meeting rooms are included as standard, so you can hold meetings with clients and know that all their needs will be catered to.
5. All the furniture is provided, so you won’t need to waste money purchasing chairs, desks and other items for the office.
6. Prices are transparent, so you know that the total cost includes everything, such as heating, lighting, facilities and business rates.
7. Occupancy is flexible and can start from as little as three months.
8. Not being tied in to long term commitments means you are freer to go in any direction with your business.
9. Reasonable rents mean that your outgoings are kept in check.
10. Working in a shared space may give you access to other like-minded entrepreneurs and start-up businesses with whom you may well work in the future.
I quickly found a serviced office provider in my home town and within three weeks I was all ready to go. I was very pleased with the service the team provided and stayed there for two years, before finally deciding to invest in a property of my own. For anyone starting up in business I would highly recommend choosing a serviced office to begin with. Doing so gives you the flexibility you need to get your business off to the best possible start.
