Co-working spaces are the hot new thing, and rightfully so. Remote workers, freelance employees, start-up entrepreneurs and other solo workers are finding their nomadic homes in open lofts, converted industrial buildings, and new multi-function buildings that can host dozens of diverse workers and projects.
If you're a remote employee and are looking for an alternative to at-home work, co-working spaces can be a great option.They offer an equipped and productive social environment, without the distractions and isolation of at-home work or the commute and the routine of an office. Most co-working spaces are equipped with options like shared desks or tables, semi-private or private areas, offices or conference rooms, depending on your needs.They're good for people who do contract work, or who travel frequently and need a place to temporarily plug in. With so many types of businesses sharing a space, co-working spaces also provide a unique environment of collaboration. Additionally, co-working spaces aren’t that expensive and most of them have flexible plans and no lengthy contracts.
Not every space is going to be the right fit, so it’s important to do your research to determine whether it’s the sort of place you could feel at home in. Here are some ways to determine if a co-working space is right for you.
The spaces can look great at first glance. The vibe is often hip & productive, friendly but focused, and they all might seem to offer pretty much the same thing in terms of tech and amenities. But it's important to get a sense of the whole package before committing. Try talking to people about any recurring complaints the space receives- temperature extremes or fluctuations, unavailable coffee or hot water in a poorly serviced kitchen area, or a microwave with a waiting list at lunch hour are all acceptable complaints and are worth noting. You'll be spending a fair amount of time there, so it's best to see early on how the basic amenities are being handled.
Unacceptable issues include inconsistent Wi-Fi, spaces that aren’t clean, mail and packages that vanish or don’t get delivered, and stolen computers, phones, and other equipment. That trendy refurbished brick warehouse might seem cool when you first walk in, but don’t sign onto a place where things go missing or stay unfixed on a regular basis.
Having the right physical layout is obviously important, and It's best at the outset to determine your space requirements. Can you work in a relatively open room with people nearby? Is a single work area at a communal table adequate, or is a larger footprint or a more private area required? Does occasional conversation enhance your focus and creativity, or is it a best-avoided distraction?
A point of consideration is location- Is the building in a good one, readily accessible not only to you but to any occasional clients or project/team members? Do you have access 24/7 and if not, what are the earliest and latest hours? Although it's not the main office, your co-woking space is representing your company on some levels. Are there conference rooms equipped with all the necessities? Being able to bring clients into your space for meetings in a quiet available room says professional in a big way.
Choosing a co-working space can be an enjoyable experience if you evaluate your needs and options carefully. The right space will feel like the best combination of home and office. It can enhance your creativity and productivity, and enable you to make useful business connections, networking allies and friendships. All these positives show why co-working spaces are so popular, and why they may be perfect for you.
