There comes a time in the life of every business when you recognise it’s time for change. Maybe you just need more space, or maybe as a freelancer you want a better work/life separation and feel an office away from home will give you that.
Renting a traditional office is expensive, and not every business wants that level of commitment. Coworking spaces offer the ideal middle ground but what, exactly, are they?
Coworking Spaces Explained
Essentially, a coworking office is a dedicated business space shared by workers or sole traders from different companies or organisations.
While relatively new, it’s fast becoming more accepted and in demand. For good reason.
Costs are way lower, you have more flexibility should your needs change, plus for freelancers or sole traders there’s the buzz of having people around you. After all, working alone can get tedious and a bit stale sometimes.
Finding Your Ideal Coworking Office
Having decided to explore the concept, look around in your local area to see what’s available.
Visit the premises if you can, and ask lots of questions. You’ll get a feel for the atmosphere, the dynamics, the people you’ll likely share the space with, and have more idea if it’s for you.
Some companies offer free taster days which give you a great opportunity to find out more, and you get the choice of hot-desking or renting a set desk. The difference is that with a set desk, that space is exclusively yours. When you’re hot desking you just find a free space and settle in for the day.
Coworking Etiquette
As you can imagine, it could get hectic and uncomfortable if everyone just did their own thing without regard for others’ needs.
Generally, whether they’re written rules or just good manners, everyone sharing the space will:
- Respect boundaries – much like a house-share, you wouldn’t help yourself to someone else’s milk for your coffee or borrow their equipment without permission. Everyone shares facilities as well as workspace, so try to always be aware of your co-workers setup and give them space. Ask if you’re not sure who owns what.
- Keep it Quiet – if you enjoy music while you work, use headphones. Same for phone calls, keeping up with a podcast or editing content. No one expects total silence, but try and keep distractions to a minimum. If there are phone booths or meetings rooms, use them for conferences or networking.
- Tidy as You Go – communal space can get messy if no-one takes responsibility. Most coworking spaces expect everyone to share that responsibility and clean up throughout the day.
- Get Involved – Coworking can be a great opportunity to get to know other businesses and freelancers in your area.
If your coworking space holds social events, and many do, try and be part of them. There could be quiz nights, industry-specific events for networking, or a cheese and wine gathering to name just a few possible social opportunities.
Other Coworking Benefits
You’ll have access to all the necessary business facilities including fast wi-fi and high-tech printers. There’s the possibility of local business discounts too.
You can choose how and when you work with rolling monthly agreements so it’s a suitable option for either full-time or part-time working.
You get all the benefits of a modern, maintained office without anywhere near the standard expense. Look for facilities that offer rent and utilities together, 24/7 access, comfortable furnishings and cleaning services. Added bonuses would be things like bike storage and hot showers.
Most offer quiet work zones and comfortable break areas, as well as private call booths when you want some confidentiality.
With a coworking space to rent there’s an energy that many find inspirational and motivating. It can give you a fresh perspective and new ideas, helping you grow your business to higher levels through new contacts and a wider network.
It’s a modern business option that many are taking advantage of. Maybe it would work well for your business too.
Leave a Reply