If you're a business owner, coworking spaces can provide the perfect environment for your team. But with so many options available to choose from, it can be difficult to find one that suits your needs. Read on for tips on what to look for in a coworking space.
1. Don’t just shop for a working space. Shop for a community.
One of the most appealing aspects of coworking spaces is that they serve as meeting places for other entrepreneurs and digital nomads. Sure, everyone is working, but you have your own little group of people who understand your way of life.
These are the people who work for you. They have firsthand experience with the difficulties you face. They are familiar with the ups and downs of operating a location-independent company. You'll probably have enough to speak about with your new coworking pals.
Being a part of a community is vital because it acts as a motivator to wake up and “go to work” every day. You're already living the dream by running your own company, and you could make it even better.
2. Look for spaces that make you want to actually be there.
Nothing beats waking up every morning at the same spot in your apartment, staring at the same walls, and going about your daily routine. You'll be aching for a change of scenery after 4 or 5 days of this repetitive exercise.
Coworking spaces are fantastic since they frequently have amenities and settings that will not only provide a welcome change from your mundane apartment but will also motivate you. It's great to have open and outside spaces. If you need a private space to relax, think, or simply sit and read, you'll find it at a wonderful coworking space.
3. Ask about events hosted by the coworking management
You don't have to look far to find other like-minded people who might potentially help you build your business, whether it's an in-house "after-hours" event or one held in a local cafe or bar.
4. Check out the neighborhood.
Don't forget to think about your new "office's" surroundings.
Many coworking spaces are flanked by coffee shops and cafés in cool, up-and-coming communities. Isn't it easier to grab a bite to eat or a snack and a cup of coffee when it's only down the street? If you prefer spending time outside, seek a coworking space in your present city that is close to a park or other open space.
5. Find a place where you’re comfortable meeting with a client.
If you're meeting with a client for the first time, it's important to choose a location that will make both of you feel at ease.
Some coworking spaces have private rooms where your clients can sit and relax while having their consultation with you via Skype or phone call. If this is not an option in the space you are considering, find another place that accommodates such scenarios.
6. Know what kind of extra “hardware perks” are offered.
It's astonishing that we still require hard copies of things in this day and age of digital everything. Make sure your preferred coworking location provides access to a printer, either for free or at a reasonable cost. It wouldn't hurt to have a scanner, copier, and other essentials on hand as well.
If you need a physical address, some coworking spaces will charge a nominal fee to forward “snail mail” to their street address. If you receive a lot of paper mail, this may be less expensive than other solutions.
As you can see, there are various factors to consider while looking for a quality coworking space. They're not all made equal, but for the most part, they're a terrific option for anyone searching for a place to work. Make sure these elements are on your list the next time you're looking for a shared workspace.
Are You Ready to Find Your New Coworking Space?
Victory Workspace has been serving professionals in the Walnut Creek, California area for over ten years, and even after the Covid 19 Shelter in Place is over we will be here for you. We offer a large variety of coworking spaces, short-term office rentals, meeting rooms, and 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 the services might be right for you, reach out to one of our amazing Community Guides at Victory Workspace for more information.
