The days of working in a traditional office are a thing of the past. If you are a start-up, small business, freelancer, or remote employee you have the freedom to work from where you choose, but you are likely looking for somewhere flexible other than your home or a busy coffee shop to run your business. Coworking spaces are a perfect solution. As you began your coworking search and consider your options, you want to be aware of the benefits a coworking space provides to you and your business.
Your work environment is so important for your productivity, and a coworking space gives you a distraction-free environment to get your work done well. Although it could seem better financially to work from home, you are not necessarily relieved of the common distractions that come from a home office or coffee shop. Coworking spaces provide clean, quiet areas for members to work whether there are open workspaces, dedicated desks, or private offices.
A coworking space provides a multitude of benefits and amenities so you should choose a location that best fits your needs and wants. For those who have atypical work habits, 24-hour access to the facility may be a top priority. Every company operates at different business hours, and you may need the option to get work done during a crunch time deal or when inspiration strikes. It is a major benefit for your space having a come-as-you-go culture. Another one of these may be conference rooms and event spaces to give you the options for larger meetings or gatherings of employees or partners. You also might want to be sure the space you chose provides office essentials like mail service, printing, and of course strong WiFi.
For many a workplace priority is coffee. Most places provide coffee, tea, and other beverages as a perk that you may want to look out for. You might even be looking for a place that has a fun, lively environment in the common space, plays good music, and organizes member events. When the weather permits, having an outdoor workspace option is nice, and if you have a dog, consider a location that is pet-friendly.
One of the unique benefits of officing out of a coworking space as opposed to the isolation of your own home is that you are able to interact and network with a variety of other small businesses or fellow freelancers. When desired, coworking can provide the socialization often found in a traditional workplace environment where you are able to interact with a variety of people and businesses, creating new opportunities. With the proximity you have among other members of your space, you keep the door open for collaboration and new ideas with diverse business people like yourself. Coworking gives you the ability to ask about how others are functioning in the space as well as build relationships that may go beyond the shared workspace.
Coworking spaces definitely have their advantages over a traditional office or working from home. Whether you are a small business or freelancer, your work environment can be essential to growing your business and making necessary connections. Evaluate all of your needs and find the perfect place to be successful.
