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What are Executive Offices?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Executive offices are spaces that serve as a center of operation for a company. Sometimes referred to as the main office or company headquarters, the executive office is normally the base of operations for key executives in the company, and as a central hub that coordinates the function of all associated facilities of the business. Generally, executive offices do not house production or manufacturing facilities, although operations of those types may be included somewhere on the company campus where the offices are located.

One section of an executive office is usually set aside as office space for key company officers. These offices are sometimes multifunctional, providing space for sitting areas, private restrooms, and often shower facilities and room to store extra clothing. Referred to as an executive suite, the office space is ideal for getting work done in a quiet setting, hosting small business meetings with other executives based at the location, and entertaining visiting clients or prospective clients. Executive suites marry the functionality of any office environment with an atmosphere that is conducive to brainstorming, relaxed discussion of relevant business subjects, and the ideal location to entertain important guests.

Executive offices often have anterooms where meetings can be conducted.
Executive offices often have anterooms where meetings can be conducted.

Executive suite offices often are designed as a way of implying that the corporation is healthy and profitable. For this reason, executive offices will be decorated with high-quality furnishings, plush carpeting, and tasteful artwork. At the same time, the space is still practical for work purposes, usually including filing cabinets, telephones, computer connections, and other office essentials within reach but situated to not interfere with the opulence of the space.

Executive offices commonly feature filing cabinets for file storage.
Executive offices commonly feature filing cabinets for file storage.

In many instances, executive offices also include a reception area where guests can be received and made comfortable while waiting for their appointment. A receptionist or executive assistant often oversees this section of the suite, effectively serving as a barrier between unexpected visitors and the executive. This can be a practical consideration as well as necessary for welcoming guests, since the receptionist can easily screen anyone who attempts to gain entrance to the suite.

Executive offices usually have reception areas where visitors can wait.
Executive offices usually have reception areas where visitors can wait.

It is not unusual for executive offices to be equipped with a secondary exit as well as the main entrance to the space. This amenity makes it possible for executives to discreetly exit the office when necessary. For example, an executive who does not wish to deal with unwanted visitors or others who do not have an appointment can simply go out the back entrance and leave the premises without encountering delays.

A receptionist or executive assistant may be stationed outside executive offices to greet visitors and handle administrative work.
A receptionist or executive assistant may be stationed outside executive offices to greet visitors and handle administrative work.

Even virtual businesses can enjoy the benefits of executive offices. Many commercial buildings provide office space rentals that could be classified as an executive office or suite. The suite offers a physical location to welcome visitors or gather the officers of the company together for important meetings. Often, these rental suites are available for short-term and long-term leasing at rates that even a small business can afford.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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    • Executive offices often have anterooms where meetings can be conducted.
      By: pressmaster
      Executive offices often have anterooms where meetings can be conducted.
    • Executive offices commonly feature filing cabinets for file storage.
      By: Sashkin
      Executive offices commonly feature filing cabinets for file storage.
    • Executive offices usually have reception areas where visitors can wait.
      By: Stephen Coburn
      Executive offices usually have reception areas where visitors can wait.
    • A receptionist or executive assistant may be stationed outside executive offices to greet visitors and handle administrative work.
      By: zhaubasar
      A receptionist or executive assistant may be stationed outside executive offices to greet visitors and handle administrative work.
    • Executive offices may include reception areas where receptionists can screen visitors.
      By: contrastwerkstatt
      Executive offices may include reception areas where receptionists can screen visitors.