There comes a time when an office move isn’t only a ‘nice option,’ but an inevitable need. Perhaps, you’re downsizing to cut down costs or expanding to support the rapid scale-up of your business. Or, you may want to be closer to clients. In these instances, relocation becomes an urgent priority. And one priority you should keep in mind when you go this route is employee engagement. Too often, during drastic transitions, employees experience a disconnect from the organization, as they make a lot of adjustments to new environments. That said, if you want to keep employee engagement up during office relocation, here’s what you should do:
Resolve transportation issues
An office move most likely entails a change in your employees’ commute. If there will be an inconvenience to them going to the office on time and in ‘good shape,’ there’s a possibility that they won’t stand to last in your new office. You might find resignation letters coming in later. So, as early as now, make sure to fix any transportation issues. Refer back to your employees’ database and check their addresses. Provide shuttle at pick-up points if necessary. Or, offer gas allowance and parking space in the building. If you haven’t found a new office space yet though, consider transportation matters in your choice. Find an accessible location, one near public transportation systems. Check out commercial spaces in Ortigas. It’s conveniently close to MRT stations and reachable through different modes of transport.
Create info materials
This will not just get your team informed about how to get around your new office, but also give them something to look forward to. Include in your leaflets what your office will look like. Use images to help them visualize the aesthetics of the entire space. Of course, put labels as to where each of the rooms will be located. Go beyond the actual office, too. For sure, your employees have grown fond of certain restaurants and coffee shops near your current location, so they would want to know if they can find new establishments to explore in your new address. Use maps and icons for an easy read. Make sure to include packing instructions too in your info materials. Your employees should know how to pack, when (and until when) to pack, and where to get packing materials. Use different platforms, from email and intranet to bulletin boards, to disseminate all this information.
Talk to people
The more you involve your team in the decision-making of the move, the more that you form a solid support for this big transition. Not to mention, the greater excitement in your office atmosphere. So, ask your employees what they think about your new office. Let them recommend ways how you can better use the space and make it work for everybody’s productivity and enjoyment. Help them open up about things that aren’t working in your current office so that you can avoid such in your new one. If you can invite some of your team members to check out office spaces, while you’re still on the property hunt, better.
Big Move, Big Transition
Remember, office relocation is a huge adjustment for employees. It would create changes in their engagement, which can be bad for productivity and business growth. So keep your team engaged during this big transition with these small steps.
