Top 9 Lessons Learned From a Successful Office Move
Shannon Wilson
Administrative Manager
In the last year, there have been more than 100 businesses that moved to Loudoun or expanded in Loudoun. Some organizations bought or leased space in existing buildings, and some moved into newly constructed space like we did.
I managed the move of Loudoun’s Economic Development office from 3,200 square feet in a 20-year-old building to a space of 8,200 square feet in the new Loudoun Station development. I learned quite a bit over that 18-month process of our office move, and have listed my “ABCs” of lessons learned. I hope that they will help others to maintain their sanity and possibly even enjoy the experience.
- Advanced planning As soon as you know the move is happening, you need to develop a plan and identify all the action items that will need to be completed in your moving process.
- Be organized Select a method of organizing all move-related materials (digital or hard copy). You will thank me when you need to reference a brochure you received six months prior!
- Create a timeline Set a timeline for each action identified in your advanced planning. Having a timeline will help you to understand the time requirements and balance the move with other responsibilities.
- Don’t panic Things are going to go wrong! Staying calm is vital to being able to think clearly and solve the issues as they come.
- Every detail matters When performing your final walk-through, take time to look at the smallest details in your new space. Big problems can come in small packages!
- For the love of deadlines Make sure everyone involved is aware of the deadlines and is staying on task. Schedule regular meetings to review deadlines and discuss progress so that there are no last-minute surprises.
- Get buy-in Remember that the space belongs to all of you. Ask for and consider the opinions of your staff.
- Hello, team This is not a job for one person. Promoting teamwork and communication between contractors, property managers, utility providers and others is an important key to success.
- I’m ready to celebrate Host a celebration to introduce your new space and recognize all those fabulous people who made your move happen!
If your company is looking to move to Loudoun, or ready to grow in Loudoun, we’d love to help you. Call 1-800-LOUDOUN or email LoudounBiz@Loudoun.gov.