Looking at your small business you might see a lot of potential for improvement. Whether you need to take out a few walls to create a larger space, update landscaping, update paint, or even purchase new equipment for your business, there is plenty of work to be done. As you may already know, taking on a business remodel or renovation can be a scary thing. Updating your business can’t be done on a whim, it usually calls for some preparation and a general understanding of how it will impact your business. We recently began renovations and have some pointers for your business before you begin yours.
1. Make A Plan
Making a plan for what renovations and revitalizations you want done is essential. You need to have a detailed and well thought out plan in order to move forward. Ask yourself these essential questions when starting the planning phase of this process.
-What are your renovation must haves?
-What is your budget?
-When do you plan on starting your renovations?
-Will you have to close for renovations?
-When was your building last inspected?
2. Secure Funding
Even small renovations can come at a hefty cost, and sometimes what starts as a small job, ends up being more than you originally planned for. When you are setting your budget and securing financing always account to have a little extra padding just in case. This will prevent you from coming up short and having to cut back on your must haves list in order to fix something unexpectedly. Securing funding may be difficult without collateral, which is why we offer funding to small businesses just like yours for projects just like this. If you need funding for your renovation project, apply here.
3. Find A Contractor If Needed
Not all revitalizations have a need for contractors. If you are simply updating paint or landscaping you can skip this step. Anything on a heavier scale, it’s a good idea to hire somebody that is familiar with city codes and ordinances. It’s important that jobs like this are done correctly and in accordance with the law so the time and money you’ve spent isn’t a waste. Many good contractors can be found through word of mouth or through reputable sites like Anji
4. Be Energy Efficient
Depending on the updates you are making, it may be a great time to switch to being a more energy efficient place of business. Some energy efficient choices you can make when renovating are:
- Changing your fixtures to LED/energy efficient lighting
-Updating your windows to double or triple pained windows and install blinds for peak sunlight hours
-Updating your HVAC system and install an automatic thermostat
-Using energy efficient appliances and equipment
5. Plan For Closures Or Customer Impact
If your business can remain professional during the renovations and remain open with minimal customer impact, then just make a plan to do your renovations in phases that will have minimal impact on day to day business. While some prefer this method so that they do not have to close, others prefer to close for a small period of time and get the work done in a shorter time frame. Whatever route you choose make sure you and your employees plan financially for the slight lull in business that may occur due to renovations.
6. Keep Everyone Informed And Up To Date
You can send emails, put up signs, or send frequent social media updates to your customers and let them know whats going on. If you intend to stay open during renovations, let your customers know in advance so they are not taken back by the “Pardon our dust” signs. It’s also important to let your customers know that your will be closing in advance so that they know to plan around your closure. If renovations are taking longer, or hopefully less time, than originally planned, let them know about that as well. Communication is key!
7. Plan A Grand Re-Opening
There is no better way to re-introduce your business to the world than to have a Grand Re-Opening celebration! This will show your customers and community your new look and give you a great opportunity to bring in new business and generate excitement over the changes! Make sure your re-opening is marketed well and has enticements to draw people in. Have a cool theme, provide some free or discounted food and refreshments, and maybe even offer a giveaway or two to gain an audience.
In our recent renovations we were reminded that not everything goes as expected! While freshening up and removing old landscaping we stumbled upon a mother duck and her nest! We discovered her when we removed shrubbery that needed to be replaced, and we unknowingly took away her source of shelter. We learned that flexibility in during renovations is important for us, and for nature! We have since built a temporary shelter for her and will complete our revitalization of that area after the duckling’s have left the next. This is a reminder for everyone to get your ducks in a row before diving into a renovation. Pun intended.
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