Imagine a world where your every step is guided as you navigate through the maze called life. Now, imagine that same maze as a collection of cubicles and offices rather than a field of green grass and dirt paths.
In this modern day and age, there has been an increase in the number of people who work from home or choose to start their own business rather than work for someone else. This brave new world offers a variety of choices when it comes to setting up office – from buying your very own building so you can have complete control over what happens inside its walls, to joining a coworking space where you will have access not only to deskspace but also printing services, phone booths, high-speed connectivity, meeting rooms and event venues.
The beauty of the shared workspace (also known as a co-working space) is that you get to choose what best fits your business needs and budget. There are spaces that offer desks for $400 per month and there are ones that charge more than twice that price. Some coworking spaces will provide their members with free breakfast every day while some may only open their pantry for snacks or drinks during special events held in the evenings or on weekends.
Choosing between these various options can be overwhelming, which is why we put together this guide on how to find the best shared workspace for your business:
Determine your business needs and goals
Before you even start exploring potential workspaces to join, take some time to answer the following questions. By taking the time to reflect on your needs and goals, you will be able to apply an objective lens when looking for shared workspaces that may fit these requirements.
What kind of services do I need?
Some coworking spaces offer multiple tiers of membership depending on what amenities they provide its members. Some businesses require fax/copy/printing services so they can conveniently send out physical copies of their invoices or any other sensitive information every day instead of having to go out of their way to find a local Kinkos or Staples. Other businesses type up legal documents all the time so they need access to scanners that are compatible with specific software applications. Take that many shared workspaces also have event spaces where you can host business seminars or workshops. That way, you are likely to find a space that offers what you need.
What are my financial constraints?
Paying for coworking services is just like paying for any other type of utilities – it’s all about supply and demand. Some workspaces offer discounts to students or individuals with disabilities while others waive late fees if they accidentally missed their monthly dues. Others will charge members based on the total area they occupy in the office so owners only pay for space they actually use rather than wasting money on empty workstations.
Build a list of potential shared workspaces
Once you’ve determined your needs and set your budget, it’s time to start finding potential spaces to join. Remember that what you think you want may not necessarily be the best option for you so keep an open mind and do thorough research on these places before making any commitments.
Check the spaces you’re interested in
After compiling a list of potential spaces to join, it’s now time to read reviews and check out their websites so you can learn more about what they offer and how much they cost.
Ask for access to their facilities before committing to any specific plan so you can see first hand if these places will be suitable not only for your immediate need but for future growth as well. If possible, try speaking to other members who have tried different shared workspaces before which help validate research findings.
Once you’ve compared the different options and narrowed down your list to one or two places, it’s time to sign up for a tour. If the owner is available, ask them how accessible their location is so you will know if there are any limitations in getting to and from work every day. Owners should also be able to provide references of past members who have tried their facilities before so you can get unbiased feedback about what it’s like working with these people.
These steps should help streamline your search for the best shared workspace that meets your needs without breaking your monthly budget. Start off on the right foot by following these three easy-to-follow steps and find a suitable coworking space today!
Are You Ready to Find Your New Shared Workspace?
Victory Workspace has been serving professionals in the Walnut Creek, California area for over ten years. We offer a large variety of safe coworking spaces, short-term office rentals, meeting rooms and welcoming event space with plenty of free parking for you or your guests, all in the center of historic downtwon. All that while providing our clients with daily opportunities to network with other business-minded professionals just like you! To learn more, set up your free tour, or inquire about which one of our services might be right for you, reach out to one of our amazing Community Guides at Victory Workspace for more information.
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