In the working world, there’s something very comforting about consistency and stability. You arrive at the same office each day at the same time, sit at the same desk, and see familiar faces all around you as you perform familiar tasks. That’s why many employees struggle with how to adapt to change at work when it’s time for a transition that’s best for the business.
This article will discuss things to consider when moving offices and how to adapt to a new work environment without disrupting the company culture. After all, it’s the work you do and the people you work with that really matter more than your location!
How to Prepare for an Office Move
A lot of planning and preparation go into an office move, and much of this can be handled by a professional company that specializes in relocations. It is recommended to start the moving process at least three months in advance for a small office, six months for a medium-sized office, and eight months for a large office. The first step in getting ready is to review blueprints and see the new space for yourself. Then you’ll want to gather your team together to coordinate packing in different areas of the office, assign moving-related tasks as they come up, and have regular meetings to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Things to Consider When Moving Offices
It’s also a smart idea to make an office moving checklist to make sure that nothing gets forgotten or overlooked during this busy time. Things to consider when moving offices include practical checklist items like establishing deadlines, buying new furniture, setting up wireless connectivity, arranging for parking, and taking care of security concerns.
However, companies must also consider the wellbeing of their employees during this time and help employees gradually adapt to the new work environment. This includes making sure that each employee has an accommodating work space with all of the technology tools they need to minimize downtime during the moving process. Keep employees engaged and informed about the moving process, enlisting their physical help and also inviting their feedback and suggestions for improvement. Company leaders may also want to provide employees with information about the neighborhood where the new office is located, provide parking and traffic tips for the new office, and allow a bit of flexibility and forgiveness as employees get accustomed to their new commute.
Keeping the Company Culture Alive
Keeping the lines of communication open is an essential part of keeping a company’s culture alive and well during a transition. Moving locations is a great opportunity to improve working conditions to make work spaces more ergonomic, inviting, accessible, and accommodating. Also, encourage employees to personalize their new work spaces to make them feel more like home, perhaps with family photographs, plants, and efficient task lighting. It’s also fun to plan after-work outings in the new office’s neighborhood to help employees get to know and love the new area they work in.
How to Adapt to Change at Work More Generally
Inevitably, some employees deal with change better than others, but it’s often necessary to further the goals of a company. Change should always be introduced slowly and gradually, and it should engage everyone affected with open communication. Employees are much more likely to embrace change if they feel like they’re part of the process and kept informed about the big-picture goals that changes aim to accomplish. Communicate the benefits of change, such as the opportunity to learn new skills and explore a new area, and offer stress-relief opportunities, such as company-led yoga or meditation sessions.
If your company is in a time of transition and could use professional meeting rooms or rent office space on a temporary basis, contact NYC Office Suites. We offer stress-free and professional work spaces at multiple New York City locations to help ease your company’s transition and take some of the burden off your employees as you finalize your office move.