There’s no doubt about it — relocating your business to greener pastures is exhilarating. But don’t get carried away in the excitement. Before you start shopping for office furniture or offering moving updates on social media, you need a detailed plan. The steps in this article will kick off your brainstorming, but you’ll need to customize them for your unique needs.
Map Your Move
As a business owner, you already know the importance of efficient processes. Just as you would map out a new product release, you need to create a timeline of your move. First, define your goals and milestones. If you can afford to maintain two facilities for a while, it might make sense to stagger your move over several months. On the other hand, it might be easier to hire a moving company and relocate the entire company in one fell swoop.
Once you’ve mapped out the broad strokes, break each part of your relocation into manageable steps. A process map template can help you see the process visually so you can anticipate any hiccups. When you’re ready to share your plan with others, they can easily absorb the information in your process map.
Make It Official
Once you’ve decided where to relocate, start the legal process right away. If you’re crossing state lines, you may need to register your LLC or corporation in your new home state.
If your business is relatively straightforward, you can submit the paperwork yourself or use a self-service legal website. For more complex moves, consult a lawyer. They ensure you’re in compliance with all the relevant laws in your old and new state. Also, consult your tax preparer for advice on steps to make your move with the fewest negative tax implications.
Break the News to Employees and Partners
Your plan is in place, and you’re legally cleared to move. Now, it’s time to break the news to your team. The best way to do this is at an all-hands, in-person meeting. Make sure employees have a chance to ask questions in front of the group or privately after the meeting. Try to think of solid answers ahead of time. Will you create teams that work remotely? How much time will they have to relocate? Will there be a severance option for those who choose not to follow you?
After your employees have heard the news, start informing your business partners and vendors. Have an idea of which partners you will continue to work with after the move. If you plan to drop a vendor, brush up on your current contract before you inform them.
Update Your Business Collateral
A few weeks prior to your move, announce your new location to the public. Update your website, social media profiles, and business pages on sites such as Yelp or Google Business. If your move is a major one that your customers will want to know about, create a video explaining your big changes, and offer up information that customers will find beneficial.
Find a New Home
Moving with your company comes with a whole host of personal changes as well, so it’s crucial to work with a dedicated real estate broker from the start. They can be your eyes and ears on the ground until you can visit your new city to get the lay of the land. Your agent may even be able to help you connect with other local business owners and offer you insight into community events that are worth attending.
Settle In
Pulling off a business move is a major feat that takes a lot of planning and patience. But with a careful approach, you can make it happen in no time. And, once the major stresses of your business relocation are behind you, you can fully immerse yourself in your new community.
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