Relocating an office can be a daunting task not just for you, the handler, but also for your team. On the bright side, this transition also presents a unique slash opportunistic phase to further motivate your employees!
We’ve curated a list of tried and tested strategies to help you ensure that your team is not just ready but excited and enthusiastic about this big move. From clear communication and provision of actual moving aid to fostering employee involvement and familiarizing them with their new surrounding amenities – we’ve got it all covered.
Read on to find out how you can turn this seemingly overwhelming process into an inspiring venture for everyone on board.
1. Clear Communication
When it comes to change, especially major ones like moving office locations, communication becomes paramount. As an employer, your role is not just to inform the employees about the move but also to explain clearly why this is happening.
This involves articulating how relocating benefits the business, and more importantly, them. Transparency lowers anxiety by eliminating uncertainties and helps improve employee satisfaction at the workplace.
So take the time to convey all these details either in a meeting or through personal conversations. A tip? Be receptive to their concerns and queries. Remember: understanding + assurance = decreased apprehension!
2. Relocation Assistance Plans
Relocating an office isn’t just about moving files and computers. Your employees have personal spaces to consider too. Therefore, including relocation assistance in your benefits scheme is crucial. But let’s be clear here: We’re not talking about just a day off to get settled; we mean actual, tangible assistance.
Hiring professional help with moving furniture for instance, really lightens the load, both literally and figuratively! Also, consider factors such as distance – will they need transportation? What about temporary housing or location-specific living costs?
These are things you need to think over and address adequately in your plan. Real support during the move can really make a significant transformation from burdened to enthusiastic employees. It’s all about making them feel supported!
3. Employee Involvement
Relocation means change, but it shouldn’t just be top-down change. It’s absolutely crucial that your employees have a say in their new working environment. Why not let them decide how their new workspace is laid out?
It is, after all, where they’ll spend most of their weekdays! Encourage them to chime in on decisions like which area would be best for team seating or brainstorming spots. By fostering this kind of involvement, you’re telling them that their comfort and productivity matter as much as the new location advantages.
In a way, it flips the script from “the company is moving us” to “we’re shaping our own new space.” Now, that’s an inspiring thought!
4. Highlight Nearby Amenities
When you’re moving to a new office, it’s not just the workspace that changes. The surrounding environment impacts your employees. So take a moment to share with them what the new area has to offer.
Any cool cafes for their coffee fix? Is there a gym nearby where they can sweat off the stress or parks for lunch-hour unwinds? Mapping out these local amenities serves dual purposes. Firstly, your team gains an idea about their day-to-day life in this new location.
Secondly, it helps create anticipation for these new experiences they’d be able to enjoy once moved. By highlighting these facilities, you’re showing your employees that there’s more to look forward to than just a different office space!
5. Orientation Session
What’s one of the best ways to eliminate the fear of the unknown? Experience it firsthand! Before officially relocating, organize an orientation or walkthrough at your new office. It’s like a sneak peek, removing a layer of unfamiliarity before they move in for good.
During this visit, your team can explore their new workspace, and figure out their favorite coffee spots or quiet corners. They’ll know where to find what they need, and generally how to navigate through their new work environment.
Familiarization breeds comfort which eases change. Make it as casual as you can – no formal meetings or paperwork during this reconnaissance trip! Just a simple exploration day that helps them visualize and accept the forthcoming changes without apprehension.
That’s it! These are some of the practical ways to make your next office move into an exciting chapter for your team. Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start planning – involve everyone, be clear with your communication, provide ample support, showcase the new amenities, and don’t forget to celebrate this big step.
