Coworking space are becoming increasingly popular among freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. If you have heard of coworking space but never tried it, you might be wondering how to get started. In this post, we will discuss in depth 3 important steps to help you start working together.
Find a suitable coworking space
The first step is to research coworking spaces thoroughly to find options that fit your needs. Look for spaces within your budget that offer the amenities you want, such as fast Wi-Fi, printing, coffee and snacks, meeting space, lounge areas, etc. Some coworking spaces cater to specific industries, so consider that within your budget.
Take some time to visit coworking space websites in your area and check out their prices, options, photos, and reviews. Make a list of spaces that interest you to explore further.
When you visit coworking space websites, here are some things to consider:
- Price: Coworking spaces offer a wide range of prices based on amenities and workspace options. Find spaces that fit your budget.
- Amenities: Consider what amenities are most important to you, such as Wi-Fi speed, pantry access, meeting space, etc. Look for spaces that offer the amenities you need.
- Workspace options: Many coworking spaces offer both shared desks as well as fixed working seat and private office. Choose the option that suits your needs.
- Community: Some coworking spaces curate their communities around specific industries, career stages, or work styles. Consider whether a space caters to people like you.
- Location: Look for spaces that are conveniently located within the area you want to work.
- Ambience: Check out photos and reviews to get a sense of the overall look and feel of the space to ensure it has the atmosphere you want.
- Events and networking: Look for spaces that offer opportunities to interact and collaborate with other members through coffee breaks, lunches, or other events.
- Reviews: See what other members are saying about the space, staff, amenities, location, and overall experience. Look for reviews that are mostly positive.
Once you have a list of coworking spaces that interest you based on their websites, you're ready for the next step.
Visit the space and ask questions
The best way to determine if a coworking space is right for you is to visit in person. Contact the providers on your list and request a tour of the facility and see the workspaces and amenities available. This will give you a better feel for the environment and options than just browsing a website.
As you visit each space, here are some important things to evaluate:
- Workspace Options: See what options are available and whether they meet your needs. Ask about availability and pricing for different options.
- Amenities: Check if the space has amenities that are important to you, such as a kitchen, living room, meeting room, etc. See if the Wi-Fi speed and quality are adequate.
- Noise Level: Pay attention to the noise level to ensure it suits your preferences for a work environment. Some spaces have more separation between work areas while others are more open.
- Staff: Meet the staff at the space and ask them any questions you have about the membership, amenities, events, and community. Friendly, helpful staff is a good sign.
- Members: Try to get to know the members in the space. See if they sound like people you would like to interact with and potentially collaborate with.
- Overall Environment: Determine whether you feel comfortable and productive in that environment. The atmosphere of a space has a big impact on your overall working experience.
- Costs and options: Ask about service packages, costs, and any fees beyond the membership fee. Ask about short-term or trial memberships that you can try before committing long-term.
- Events and Community: Ask about opportunities to socialize and connect with other members. See if the space hosts any community events or programs.
Visiting coworking spaces and asking questions will provide insights that will help you find a space where you will thrive. Once you have narrowed down your options, you are ready to take the next step.
Get familiar with the rules and culture
Before signing up for a coworking space membership, take the time to thoroughly understand their rules, policies, and culture. Most coworking spaces have policies on things like noise, guests, availability of amenities, etc. Culture can also vary from space to space in terms of how collaborative or independent members tend to be.
Getting familiar with the rules and culture of a space will help ensure it fits your work style and needs. Here are some things to explore:
- Space policies: Review written policies on things like noise, visitors, pantry use, printing, meeting room reservations, and any other rules. Make sure you fully understand and are comfortable with them.
- Member handbook: Many coworking spaces provide a member handbook that guides members on how to use the space. Read through the handbook before joining.
- Staff Orientation: When you check in, ask to go through an induction process so staff can show you how to use the space and answer any questions.
- Culture: Try to understand the overall culture of the space and how members tend to interact. More collaborative spaces may have more social events while more private spaces give members more privacy. Choose what suits your preferences.
- Member Profiles: If available, check out other members' profiles to learn more about who is participating in the space. See if they sound like the community you want to join.
- Events: If possible, attend some events at the space to experience the environment and interact with members. This can provide insight into the community and culture.
- Reviews: Look for additional reviews of the space, especially any that mention the rules, culture, community, or environment. Make sure the aspects mentioned align with what you're looking for in a coworking space.
Familiarizing yourself with the rules and culture of a coworking space before joining will help you have a successful experience. You will choose a space where you understand and fit in with the community, resulting in a more productive and satisfying coworking experience.
Conclusion
In short, getting started with a coworking space involves finding the right space, visiting in person, and getting to know the rules and culture. Coworking spaces offer great opportunities to work with others, but making sure the space fits your needs is key to having a productive and enjoyable experience.
With careful research, asking the right questions, and exploring the rules and culture, you can find a great coworking space to call your office away from your home office. While the process can take time, finding the coworking space that works best for you will make the effort worthwhile. You’ll be able to settle into a space where you can do your best work surrounded by a like-minded community. These Benefits of coworking space Well worth the initial investment to get started.
Follow these tips to choose a coworking space where you can thrive and do your most meaningful work. This is a great start to your coworking experience!
