Tips for a successful office move

Change is good. SWYPIT is in the process of moving to a new office space. While change is good, it can also be daunting, confusing, and labor intensive. I am looking at this move as a process and just like all processes it is important to break it down into steps and have a plan in place. We all know that proper planning prevents poor performance.

The first step to moving an office is to look at it as an opportunity to clear out the old and make room for the new. Clean out old files and purge information that is no longer relevant. Consider setting up a scanning system to have less paper in the office, but make sure that all hardcopy files are discarded securely. Moving is also a time to evaluate current contracts in place and review equipment to see if it might be time to upgrade. Taking the current state of the office and assessing the needs will set up the tools for an appropriate office move plan.

Good communication is key in an office move. With all of the modes of communication out there it is important that you use each form to get the word out to customers and potential customers that you will have a change of location. Obviously the letterhead, business cards, newsletters, etc. will need an update, but don’t forget the website and social media outlets used for the business. This is also the perfect excuse to interact with your customers. Use the move as a way to check in. Calling up your customers and letting them know of the change will not only help them for future needs, but it sends a message that you care about the relationship that you have started.

Build the right office move team. Moving an office is a major undertaking that requires a trustworthy and committed team both internal and external. An internal point person is critical to organizing the process, stay within a budget, and make decisions.  When dealing with an external professional moving company you should not only request references but also make sure that the previous moves are a comparable size to your move.

Moving can be stressful, invigorating, complicated, and cleansing all at the same time. It is important to have a plan, communicate, and build the right team before embarking on the journey. It is my hope to use the move as a way to connect with my customers and future customers as customer service is my number one priority when it comes to my business.