How to Equip Your Startup Office

startup office

You’ve decided to start a business – that’s excellent news. Entrepreneurship is an exciting endeavor but also stressful, especially if you choose not to be a one-person company. 

Once you hire, creating a work environment that will motivate people to come and stay with you is critical. However, as in every sphere, office designs undergo changes and trends. 

A kitchen with your employees’ favorite coffee flavors and a game room is an excellent addition to your working area. Still, there are more critical steps to take when considering how to equip your startup office. 

Create a Budget

Even before the 2020 global events, starting a business came with many risks, but you know how Del Boy says, ”He who dares, wins!” Thus, if you have an idea and gather people who believe in it and are willing to work to bring it into reality, you need to build a healthy foundation starting with a productive and well-equipped office space. 

The first thing to determine is how much money you can spend on your new office and everything you need to put in it. Then, do market research and see the prices of renting office-suitable spaces. 

Aside from renting costs, establish the sum you must set aside monthly for utility bills and space maintenance. Finally, list the equipment to purchase to provide good working conditions for your employees. 

Provide the Right Tools

Successful business equals people plus processes plus tools. Therefore, if you want your team to bring good results, you must provide them with tools to work with. These include computers, printers, scanners, phones, etc. You must also think about adequate software and digital channels for seamless communication. 

As for computers, you can opt for laptops or PCs. Once you decide on these, you will know what types of desks to purchase. Also, consider looking for high-quality phone systems and providers that meet your needs and budget. 

As technology grows, fewer companies use printers. However, you may still need to deal with physical paperwork, so purchasing a printer should also be on your list. For instance, if you manufacture physical items you plan on shipping, it is handy to have a good shipping label printer to ease the process.

Make Wise Furniture Choices: Aim for Comfort and Functionality

Don’t expect your team members to be productive if you don’t provide them with the basics. You can give them the best technology, but they will still need adequate desks and chairs to work on. 

You can opt for a classic desk if your team members use laptops. On the other hand, L-shaped desks are ideal for those working on PCs. Also, as people spend more and more time on their desks, adjustable standing desks may be a great option if people need to stand up and work like that at some point in the day. 

Remember, motivated and productive employees are those who know that their employers pay attention to their specific needs, especially their health. So, aside from a high-quality desk, you must provide high-quality, ergonomic office chairs as they are a much healthier option to sit on for an extended period.

Create Separate Areas and Equip Them Adequately

As a ”young” business owner, you probably don’t have a large team and don’t need huge office space, at least at the beginning. However, even a smaller space must have a good structure and be divided to meet different needs.

For instance, you need a reception room. It is the first thing an employee, and a potential client will see once they enter your company. Like everyone else, a person working in reception will need a desk, computer, and phone. 

You’ll also need furniture there, like a sofa, armchairs, and a coffee table. Then, to spice things up, add a couple of plants and some artwork. After all, the area must feel warm and welcoming.

2in1: Client Meeting Room and Employee Brainstorming Area

Even if your office is a giant open space where everyone can see and talk to each other whenever they want/need it, you still need a separate room for meetings you’ll organize with potential and existing clients and employees. 

Equip it with desks, chairs, a projector, a whiteboard, and even shelves to store documents and literature that could help your employees discuss new ideas. In addition, a separate meeting room shows your company’s professionalism and paints a better picture of your business when a new/potential client comes in. 

Change or Adjust the Office Space as Your Company Grows

Your office-related needs will change as your business grows. You may have to modify or even change it once new people, offerings, and clients come. The thing you should never neglect is employees’ needs. The better work conditions you offer, the better trained and experienced employees you attract and retain – and that’s the prerequisite for long-term success.