Getting A Real Office

A momentous step in the growth of Accompany Publising. Two weeks ago I moved into an office. For the first time since starting the business two years ago, I am no longer operating Accompany on a cell phone and 100 sq. feet in a dark basement.

The decision to not secure a dedicated office space was simple. My feeling was that until the business generated revenues and customer traction it should not leave the comfort of a rent-free location. Minimizing overhead was key.

For anyone out there interested in launching their own business venture, I will now offer that incurring startup overhead in the form of an office can offset the productivity loss brewed by sitting around your basement. I can’t tell you how despairing it can get working out of your own home. No matter your level of discipline, and earnest, you will have to overcome separation from people. There is a feeling that I was missing out on what was happening in the world.

I remember a time during my Nashville stint when I got hit with a nasty virus. I didn’t leave the Vanderbilt apartment for 4 days straight. Slept and read, trying to lick the bug. After I turned the corner, and could stand up, I walked outtside. I remember the awkward, feeling of leaving this little apartment and moving into this big world. That’s an allegory to the mental state of working from home.

The other thing about getting an office is that people start to look at the business differently. Before it was: “how’s your little project coming?” Garnering an office creates a different external perception of the enterprise as an actual business. People treat you differently. I don’t have to take meetings at coffee shops anymore.

Of course, my commute is now longer than ten seconds.

Anyway, the office itself is fantastic. My business associate found a commercial leasing company that caters to small businesses. For a cheap monthly rent, Accompany not only enjoys a spacious modern office, 1 mile from downtown, but also receives, included with rent, telephone, high-speed internet, fax, copier, elevator, doored-office, mailbox, security, electricity and immediate facility support. The owner/manager works three floors below me, and is emotionally committed to making the building concept succeed. I moved in on a Sunday night and this guy is sweeping the stairwell.

Now, about selling some product and making rent payments…