As we all know, having a great team helps to catapult a start up, but with hiring of staff comes the responsibility of creating a work space for that staff.  Unfortunately, a startup may not have the financial capabilities to invest in office space.

The unreasonable demands made by commercial landlords and real estate brokers make leasing an office an overwhelming undertaking for start ups, leaving them to find alternate solutions, and a creative approach to the office space dilemma. The shift in definition of workplace and work culture, has brought with it great, out of the box solutions for business owners.  Creating alternative options for new entrepreneurs, that not only save you money, but allow you to create a unique work space, and culture.

Creating Virtual Workspaces and Teams 

A lot of employees love the ability to work from home, it gives them flexibility, and allows them to create their own work environments.  But it doesn’t just benefit them, it allows you to save on office supplies, and other expenses that come with a traditional office space.

One of the unique perks that come with running a virtual office, is the ability to work with employees from all over the world. You can put a team together that is not separated by barriers, and use the incredible tools to keep track of project management with Atlassian, Basecamp, or Trello, communicate effectively with Skype, Hangouts or go to meeting, manage teams and tasks with Asana or Evernote, and so much more.  The possibilities are truly limitless with the technology at your disposable.

Exchanging Services for Free Space

Also known as bartering, you can now offer services, for office space.  A great way to work with other professionals, you can offer administrative, or bookkeeping support to another pro in exchange for some office space.  It allows you to share space with a company that may have more space than they need, and still allows you to save a few bucks in the process.

Or Simply Pay For The Shared Space

If man hour is something you simply do not have enough of, simply pay for the shared space.  You will still spend a lot less for the space and create a unique work environment.

Pivot desk connects startups in need of some space with companies with more space than they need, and allows you to create an arrangement with the click of a button. There are larger companies that offer complete office space with packages offering the use of a secretary, conference room, kitchen, and anything that you may need. 

Small Business Incubators

Small business incubators usually require registration and are limited to certain areas.  Small business incubators are a part of a unique program that is offered in combination with mentorship for startups, and a discount on rent.
There are many options out there available to startups as they begin to build a team in order to expand and grow.  By far the flexibility in costs, and options of a virtual office is certainly a favorite for those that offer services that allow them to work outside of the traditional office.  What has worked best for you, or is there one that you would love to try in the future?