A sign of growth and success, becoming a multi-office company represents a significant outlay in finances, manpower and a general commitment to driving towards a higher level of achievement. Like a new baby, a new office in so many ways seems deserving of all of your time. But at the very same moment, there is your existing office, like an older child, whose need for attention has not diminished.
Share and share alike
The key to multiple location management is to ensure that information is shared across the entire company simultaneously. It means that no one is behind on important information and also creates a sense of community. Technology can help as it allows immediate, widespread communication.
Leadership team is your greatest asset
Digital communication is not always the correct method through which to communicate with employees. Employing an excellent senior management team to undertake communication on the company’s behalf is equally important to successfully managing multi-office operations.
Timing is everything
However much you trust your leadership team, it is essential to maintain a top level presence across all offices and be a recognisable face to all employees. One must try to prioritise visits according to size, maintaining a high level of inclusion in digital communications to show staff they are all highly valued.
Integrate wherever possible
Cross office collaboration is highly advised: it is important to develop a wider understanding of the business and it is healthy to work with a number of different people. It is also very conducive to caring about the business beyond the four walls seen every day.
Do not be afraid to try something new
Always try new things and commit to change for multi-site businesses trying to achieve equilibrium. What suits one business may not suit another. Be prepared to innovate to find out what works for you.
It can seem like a lot of hard work, but splitting your time between offices and building a system of sharing information is of crucial importance to the overall long-term success of your business. — The Guardian
