Key factors to consider when looking for a coworking space. Find your ideal amenities, location, budget, resources, accessibility. Enjoy the benefits of coworking spaces and the ability to work in your ideal neighborhood. Connect with your coworking community and build your network to help your business thrive.
In recent years, coworking spaces have continued to gain popularity as more people are required to work remotely. Conducting the workday from a coworking space is a beneficial choice for all types of businesses including large companies, startups, and entrepreneurs.
Coworking spaces enhance creativity, can be economical, and create a strong network among other benefits. The Harvard Business Review mentioned the results of a study that found an increased level of thriving in people who belong to a coworking space. People reported an average of 6 points on a 7-point scale. That is at least one point above the average that employees in regular offices reported.
This quick guide will help you discover what to look for in a coworking space. You will know what criteria they must meet to help you succeed at work while balancing your professional life remotely.
Let’s look deeper into what to look for in a coworking space.
Office Amenities
You will find standard office equipment in the typical coworking space, but your type of work may require some extras. Ask yourself what type of tools you need to thrive in your role. Ask about projectors, whiteboards, chargers, and other items that will make your coworking space ideal.
Consider accessibility to meeting rooms and printing services. For some people having a kitchen or access to a cafeteria is a must. Others might need locker rooms with showers, phone booths, private quarters, parking spaces, and various other amenities.
There are coworking spaces that cater to specific types of people such as artists or tech enthusiasts. Also, look for coworking spaces that are technologically advanced and provide options such as apps where you can book meeting rooms, order food, and perform other tasks.
Style and Atmosphere
The key to productivity is to be in an environment where you feel comfortable. There are many styles of coworking spaces to suit almost every taste. Choose something that pleases your aesthetic and where you can be surrounded by the type of people with whom you see yourself networking.
Look for spaces that are on the leading edge of design and technology. Ideally, the place will have open spaces and lots of bright windows. However, some people perform better in tucked-away spaces, it’s all about your preference.
Reliable High-Speed Internet
No matter what type of work you do, having a reliable source of high-speed internet is essential to your productivity. The coworking space you choose must have a reliable and strong internet connection that allows you to browse the web limitlessly and upload heavy files if you so require.
Most places are equipped with excellent internet service. Nonetheless, it is wise to test it for yourself and inquire about it.
An effective internet speed is at least 400mbps, which allows you to download and upload extremely fast.
Enjoy all the Perks
Why not choose coworking spaces that offer you as many perks as possible. You will be spending a lot of time there, so it is wise to have the things that enhance your workday and make your life easier. This is a key component of how productive you’ll be and ultimately your overall success.
Different types of coworking spaces offer perks such as yoga, full-size gyms, daycare, outdoor working spaces, complimentary drinks and snacks, and discounts to nearby businesses.
Look for coworking spaces that help you increase your productivity by providing all the perks you need in one place to make your daily routine more efficient.
Safety and Security
You will be spending a great deal of the time in a coworking space, sometimes at odd hours. No matter what time of day you find yourself working, you want to choose a space that pays close attention to its security protocols.
Oftentimes, you will find yourself wanting to store your equipment at the coworking space overnight, during lunch, or while running errands. You need a space where you feel safe leaving your belongings at any time of the day.
Some places provide concierge services 24/7 for added security. Others provided private office spaces you can rent that are under lock and key. Ask about security measures and pay attention to the space’s access policies.
Of course, choosing a coworking space in safe neighborhood influences the level of security you may encounter.
Convenient Access
Some workers have established weekly hours while others have random working times on their own schedule. Either way, be sure the coworking space you choose is accessible at the times you need it most. Look for places that have a solid policy on their hours of operations and show consistency.
There are plenty of working spaces that are accessible 24/7 even on holidays. It is perfect for special projects or night owls. Look for places that assign you an access card or key as this guarantees they are technologically up-to-date and you won’t have delays gaining access.
Surroundings that Inspire Productivity
Ask yourself what type of environment you see yourself in. Maybe your job requires you to be near particular landmarks. Some coworking spaces prioritize nature where you will be surrounded by an abundance of plants, water features, and even swimming pools. Some feel more like a resort with soft background music and feature sights and aromas to stimulate the senses.
Once you identify which surroundings are important to you, it will be easier to narrow down your search. Remember to consider nearby attractions and important places you want in proximity. This is especially important if you attend school, have kids, or want to surround yourself with others in your field.
Be Aware of Additional and Hidden Costs
You must be aware of the various membership packages provided by coworking spaces. Be sure to check what is included in your membership and the options you have to include or exclude items to customize your costs.
Common additional costs include fees for private meeting rooms, printing services, locker rental, access to landlines, and more.
Take Advantage of Trial Periods
Many coworking spaces offer a trial period that allows you to test all of their amenities and services. This is a great opportunity for you to see if the coworking space is truly a good fit for you. There are promotions and discounts available for new members, which makes it an ideal way to explore the various coworking options in your area.
Location, Location, Location!
Obviously, you want to choose a coworking space that is in a convenient location. The ideal place will be situated where you will spend most of your time. For some is near home, while others it is near school, their kid’s activities, or other places that you frequent on a weekly basis.
Consider transportation to and from the coworking space. If you commute in your car chances are you will need convenient and affordable parking facilities. If you take public transportation or bike to work, it must all be taken into consideration.
If you hold meetings with clients or colleagues, you will want to choose a place that is centrally located and gives you a professional appearance. Coworking spaces are as unique as the people who use them, you will find a diverse style and level of professionalism anywhere you go. This is why it is important to spend some time at the location before making a long-term commitment.
For people who travel to different areas, finding a co-working space with multiple locations is an excellent choice. You may purchase a type of membership that gives you access to various locations managed by the same company. It is a way to increase the number of working spaces available to you while experiencing consistency in the service and amenities offered.
Options for Every Budget
Regardless of your budget, you will find a variety of coworking spaces that provide from basic amenities to top-rated luxuries. Think of this expense as an investment in your business. Compared to leased office space, coworking spaces can save you lots of money in the long run.
If you are trying to keep costs down and don’t need the space on a weekly basis, there are places that allow you to purchase daily passes. Plus, to save money, you can also ask about promotions, discounts, referral bonuses, and group packages.
Flexibility Equals Productivity
According to Forbes, studies show that employees are more productive when they have the ability to have a variety of working spaces. Ask about the flexibility of switching work areas at your convenience instead of only having one assigned working space.
Also, look into options in areas that participate with pop-up workspaces throughout the city. For instance, you may be able to buy a monthly pass that allows you access to coworking spaces and pop-up workspaces in an entire city. That is a perfect option if you are on the go attending meetings, running errands, or traveling frequently.
Some services have an app you can download to find available coworking spaces nearby as you navigate a particular area. It is a great way to increase your productivity while having the opportunity to check out new locations whenever you desire.
Member Resources
Some coworking spaces focus on providing industry-specific resources that help their members advance their careers. Finding a space that specifically caters to the type of professional you are is likely to be a better match for you.
Space Layout
Be sure you feel comfortable when visiting the space. The layout must inspire you to become creative and productive. Some people thrive in places that provide quiet private nooks where they can focus easier away from others. Alternatively, some people thrive in an open layout where they feel more productive and creative surrounded by background noise. It is a matter of personal taste, which is why there’s a diverse amount of layouts in coworking spaces.
Interior Design and Color
Along with the layout and environment, it is vital that the design and colors of the place make you feel at ease. Some people are more productive in a bland environment, while others like to be surrounded by vibrant colors that revitalize them.
Lighting and Ambiance
Lighting is an important feature that is determined by individual preferences. Depending on the type of work you do, you may prefer ambient lighting instead of harsh fluorescent lights. Some coworking spaces incorporate nature and bring in as much natural light as possible through skylights and windows. You must feel at home in the coworking space you choose and lighting plays an important role in your comfort.
Customizability
Each member comes with a unique set of needs. Ask yourself what your ideal scenario would be. What would be your perfect coworking space? There are plenty of places ready to accommodate your special requests. Some members require wheelchair access and other amenities for the sensory impaired.
Well-established coworking spaces feature a concierge service that helps you customize your experience. You have options to tailor your membership by choosing various elements that tie it all together for you at an affordable price.
Nowadays, coworking spaces are on the leading edge of satisfying consumer needs by providing an expansive range of services. Don’t shy away from asking for specific things that would elevate your experience.
Community and Culture
A big reason why people choose to spend time at a coworking space is the opportunity to connect with like-minded people. Forming connections is a big part of thriving at work and in life. A communal space provides a sense of familiarity and continuity with others compared to being isolated in a home office or leased office space.
Most coworking spaces cater to a particular niche and each has a unique vibe. The managers that run these places cultivate a particular culture that provides visitors with a unique experience.
Many co-working spaces are aware of the value of bringing in the human element to the equation. They have opted for running the place with a philosophy of hospitality that provides members a sense of belonging.
Community Areas
It is important that the coworking space you choose is well managed. It must be well-maintained and stocked at all times. Some places offer community areas that give you additional options for resting and working. For example, some places feature cafeterias, nap rooms, media rooms, and libraries.
Many spaces feature an area for holding large meetings and special events. Some have gardens and outdoor amenities that provide you with the perfect environment for productivity.
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