Workspace Tour Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Viewing Day
When it comes to finding the perfect office, a thorough tour is an essential step in the decision-making process. Whether you’re a freelancer, start-up founder, or leading a growing team, the right environment is important to fostering a culture of productivity and success.
At Grafter, we bring businesses at all stages of growth through our flexible workspaces each and every day, so we know what to look out for when taking that all-important tour. This blog will guide you through what you can expect on a workspace viewing – along with some valuable tips and tricks to help you make the best possible decision on your new HQ!
Preparing for Your Tour
Before you step foot in any workspace, it’s crucial to do some preliminary research. Spend some time thinking about what you need from a workspace. If you have a team of commuters, a central, easily accessible location is important. Perhaps you frequently host visiting clients or colleagues, making it essential to have an impressive, welcoming space.
Create a checklist to ensure you cover all bases during your visit.
What to Expect on a Flexible Workspace Tour
First Impressions
First impressions matter. As soon as you walk in, take note of the ambiance and overall vibe of the space. Is it welcoming? Does it feel like a place where you could see yourself working every day? Pay attention to the cleanliness and maintenance of the facilities, as this can be a good indicator of how well the space is managed.
Quality of Facilities
Assess the quality of the facilities available. Check the office furniture for comfort and ergonomics. Look at the meeting rooms – are they well-equipped with modern technology such as video conferencing tools and screens? Inspect the common areas, like kitchens, lounges, and courtyards. Can you picture yourself working in these areas? Relaxing? Networking? Don’t be afraid to ask for demonstrations of things like video conferencing systems, guest WiFi, and even the espresso machine!
Design and Layout
Your environment can greatly influence your workday (there’s a reason you’re looking at office space in the first place – trying to have a meeting while the laundry machine is whirring isn’t very conducive to success!).
Think about how you and your team work best. Open-plan offices can foster collaboration, while private offices or quiet zones like phone booths are essential for focused work. Look for a balance between these open spaces and private areas, and don’t forget to consider the natural light and general aesthetics of the space. A well-designed workspace should inspire and motivate.
Location
Location, location, location: outside of budget, your office’s location is perhaps one of the most important factors to consider. Is it easily accessible by public transport or does it offer ample parking space? Consider the surrounding area – are there cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby? A workspace in a vibrant, thriving neighbourhood is beneficial for time both inside and out of the office!
Amenities
Amenities can make or break your experience in a workspace, and there are as many options and offerings as there are offices! Look for high-speed internet, printing and copying facilities, and fully stocked kitchens.
Depending on your budget, some workspaces offer additional perks such as gym memberships, wellness programs, and event spaces. Consider which amenities are not just nice to have, but essential, and ensure they’re available wherever you’re touring.
Questions to Ask
What is the Culture of the Building?
Flexible workspaces are unique in that you’ll be sharing your office – to some degree – with other professionals. We’ve found that each building is unique, and understanding the workspace is key to ensuring it aligns with your work style.
Ask the workspace manager or Member Host about the community culture. Do they host regular networking events? Are there any initiatives they have in place to foster a positive work environment, such as trainings, panel discussions, or wellness supports? Pay attention to how other members interact with the space on your tour to help you gain a better understanding of the atmosphere.
What Types of Lease Terms Do You Offer?
Lease terms can vary significantly between different workspaces. Ask about the flexibility of the lease – can you easily scale up and down based on your team’s needs? Understand the costs involved, including any hidden fees or charges for additional services. It's also important to clarify the notice period required if you decide to leave the space.
A good operator will be able to meet you where you’re at in terms of your business growth, working with you to create a solution that meets your needs in both the long and short-term.
What Can You Tell Me About Security and Access in this Building?
Security is a critical aspect of any workspace. Inquire about the security measures in place, such as CCTV, secure entry systems, and on-site staff. Additionally, ask about the access hours—can you work during weekends or late nights if needed. It’s also important to understand how guests and visitors access the space, and if there are any additional security measures in place to consider before inviting guests to your workspace.
Do You Offer Any Business Support Services?
Check if the workspace offers any additional support services, such as administrative assistance, IT support, or mail handling. These services can be particularly beneficial for small teams or freelancers who need extra help with day-to-day operations.
Choosing the right workspace is an important decision, one that can impact your business’s growth and success for years to come.
By knowing what to expect on a workspace tour, what to look for, and what questions to ask, you can make an informed choice that not only meets your immediate needs like budget, location, and space, but also creates an enjoyable atmosphere for your best work.
Ready to find your new HQ? Schedule a tour with us and discover the perfect environment to watch your team thrive.