The way that we work was forced to evolve last year when offices and workspaces shut due to the pandemic. Established businesses that thought they were unable to operate on a remote basis found they were more than capable to do so. Innovative new companies were founded in the wake of redundancies and job cuts. With the emergence of an influx of new businesses, more freelancers than ever, and the ability to work from home, came another shift: People wanted somewhere to go to work that wasn’t into work. So they didn’t necessarily have to work from home, but instead could work near it. Where they could reap the benefits of an office environment, but without the long commute or long-term commitment. Which is where flexible working spaces come in.
There are a host of benefits to flexible working this way, with one of the best reasons being just that – the flexibility. If you are a freelancer or are running a small business for example, you likely work odd hours and can be away at meetings, pitching to potential clients or networking throughout the week. You will have a small team and it might just be one or two of you. This will mean you don’t want the commitment or the ties to rent or purchase a full-time office, yet a squashed corner at home or sticky table at the back of your local coffee shop just won’t cut it. With flexible working, you have the freedom to work away from home, in a professional environment yet
If you are new to flexible working, we have put together a beginners guide for all you need to consider before signing up to ensure you find the best one for you.
Consider the plan that is best for you
When it comes to flexible working, there is no one size fits all and that is why there are so many options for you to choose from. You could choose a coworking space that can be used for a day or booked for a certain amount of hours over a month. You could join a plan that means you get not only the space to co-work, but also a host of benefits such as events and additional facilities, or you could get a virtual office plan. Think about what you will use the space for, how often you will be there and whether you are looking to work flexibly and mix it with time in the office, if it will replace going into the office, or if you are looking for a full-time destination to replace working from home.
Find the right location
Flexible working is all about finding the right location for you. You might want to live close by so that your commute isn’t too long, or maybe just need access in case of emergencies at home and work- this can be solved by looking around town! Consider what kind of transportation will suit best when starting out on flexible hours; do any children go off campus during school hours? What’s their favorite hangout spot after school—maybe there’s an empty lot next door at perfect timing then.
Consider the facilities available
One of the best things about flexible working spaces is that they offer so much more than just a desk. Think about the facilities you want from a space and what you want to pay for. There are many factors behind flexible working and everyone can want something different from them. You might want to utilize the social aspect, being able to network and chat with those around you. You might be looking for a quiet reprieve away from a busy house, or you might be looking for a more inspirational and motivating place to run your small business from. Facilities can include fully equipped kitchens, meeting room hire, luxury showers, members galleries and private phone booths. Some offer a place to record training sessions, or somewhere with great breakout spaces where you can enjoy others’ company. Check out the facilities of the flexible working space and see what you want from the space you will be working at.
Think about the hours you will work
Flexible work options give you the freedom to balance your professional life with other commitments, like family or personal interests. But it’s important that whatever package of services is right for YOU – whether flexible hours and location requirements mean working some days at home instead in an office-based job; making sure there are places where clients can contact us 24/7 without feeling too interruptions due later than regular business hrs., then choosing one of these packages will ensure success!
Decide on your budget
Flexible working is great but due to all the benefits you get from heading to a coworking space, it isn’t free. While you can get a lot for your money, you need to think about what you want to spend and what you want to be included. Consider the number of hours that you will be there, the extras you want and the convenience that it will bring. You might choose to work from a space a few days a week or full time depending on what is best for you.
Flexible working is one of the best things that you can do and it enables you to have the benefits of both working from home and working in a professional environment. If you are looking for a flexible coworking space that can suit all your needs then please get in touch with us today.
Are You Ready for Your New Flexible Workspace?
Victory Workspace has been serving professionals in the Walnut Creek, California area for over ten years, bringing together a community of networking professionals to help them grow their business and thrive. We offer a large variety of coworking spaces, short-term office rentals, meeting rooms and a welcoming event space with plenty of free parking for you or your guests. 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.
Leave a Reply