8 Essentials For Setting Up Your First Office

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8 Essentials For Setting Up Your First Office

Setting up an office is a daunting prospect. You’ve put in the hard work to grow your business and now you need a space for your new staff, and there’s a lot to think about. Let’s break it down step by step and highlight the essentials for setting up your office.

Hardware

First thing’s first, you need all the tech to make sure your team can work to their maximum potential. Great displays and up-to-date work computers are vital, and don’t forget the importance of business printers for high quality hand-outs and presentations. A smart screen for meetings can also make all the difference when trying to impress an interested party.

Software

You have to ensure your staff have all the tools they need to succeed. Look into business subscriptions to Microsoft Office, decide what e-mail and chat systems you’ll be using, and look into any specialist software that your company may need. There are almost always software packages designed for businesses, so make sure to do your research and find the best deal for you.

Communications

Communication is key. You’ll need to have the best broadband you can find, preferably fibre, the last thing you need is for your office to grind to a halt when you hit a bandwidth limit. There’s also a huge selection of telephony systems which can carry out video conferences through the cloud.

Layout

Once you’ve got your space, you need to decide how to use it. Will your space suit open plan, closed, or modular? It’s worth considering the size of your team and the environment you want to cultivate when making these decisions. Be open to all ideas and maximise the space you have.

Decoration

The decoration of your office should reflect who you are as a business. Are you a cutting-edge tech start-up, or a warm, family style collective? Potential investors, customers or collaborators need to get a feel for who you are as soon as they walk through the doors. Don’t forget the finishing touches, office plants are a great way to create a calming, positive atmosphere.

Furniture

You’re probably asking your staff to spend around 40 hours a week in your office, so it has to be a comfortable environment. Invest in supportive desk chairs, the option for standing desks is always appreciated, and try to set aside a space for your team to chill on a sofa or eat their lunch.

Kitchenette

Speaking of lunch, your employees will need a place to make it. All you need is a fridge, a microwave, and a dishwasher, along with a collection of plates, bowls, and cutlery. Those are the bare bones for an office kitchenette, but all employees will appreciate an extra touch, like a good coffee machine, and a tea station.

Speakers

It’s always best to ask your team whether they want music played out loud. Some can get distracted, but others find it gives them a real productivity boost. It’s best to have the option there with a high-end speaker system. Even if the staff don’t want some background radio, you can use it for office parties, special events, and general announcements.