Joining a coworking space can be a great way to have a professional workspace without all of the overhead costs. Choosing a coworking space is no easy task. With thousands of coworking spaces visible around the world, and new spaces opening up all the time, it’d be easy to get stuck in analysis paralysis. How can professionals decide on a workspace that is as unique and fitting as their own personal ambitions? As many says, the environment is everything, and finding the right environment is paramount to creativity, output, and professional fulfillment.
When deciding if a community is a good fit for you, you may want to ask yourself; of what professions are people at this workspace? Are my skills a good fit for this community? Does this space host regular events for members to network with each other? Will this space help drive and hone in my ambitions?
As you join a coworking space, you also join its community. It’s important to understand that being surrounded by other entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and talented independent professionals are one of the biggest benefits of joining a coworking space. Always take extra care when choosing your coworking community. Don’t just choose randomly.
Tips on Finding the Best Coworking Community
Do Research on the Coworking Location
Consider a location that is convenient. Keeping your commute short gives you more time to build your business. Try to stalk on Instagram or other social media platforms and you’ll get a better idea of your preferred coworking space and community. Visit the location and its neighborhood. The coworking space’s location can be a big factor in how much value you get out of your membership. Being located in a prestigious neighborhood can impress potential clients. Also, convenience stores within walking distance is a big plus as well. What kind of location suits you best?
However, if you can’t visit the place physically, most spaces have their own website. These sites have information like pricing, prices, and features. Do basic research and do a comparison of the different coworking spaces by looking online or calling.
Check out the Amenities
Who wants an office with just the basics? A better-equipped workplace means a better performing team. That’s why it’s essential to consider amenities when choosing a shared office space. Apart from a work environment that allows you to focus, it is also important to find a coworking space that gives you everything else you need to maximize your work experience. So check out their amenities and see whether they have cafes for food and coffee? Or do you prefer a coworking space with a kitchen? The kitchen area paves way for members a chance to introduce themselves to people they haven’t met before, catch up with those they have, and connect with the community in a relaxed, homely environment that doesn’t suffer the conversation-stultifying tag of ‘networking’. Or does the coworking space have a communal area to gather?
Here are some suggested amenities that you should keep in mind when you’re searching for your perfect coworking space:
- Parking Space
- Mail Service
- Coffee and Snacks
- Events
- Printing
- Conference rooms
- Technology ( i.e., projectors, sound system)
Read the Blogs and Reviews
Reading the blogs and reviews on their site gives an idea of how much they care. Remember to cross-check member reviews on Coworkers, Facebook, and local blogs for a wise decision. Oftentimes, you can find a list of best coworking spaces in a specific city through local blogs.
Visit the Coworking Space
Finally, when evaluating a coworking space your best bet is to visit the location in person. Don’t be afraid to drop-in before committing. You can request a day pass or a tour. This allows you to explore the culture of the coworking space and also a great opportunity to you ask probing questions to see if this is the right coworking space for your business or not.
Conclusion
A strong community means that connections happen organically with coworkers. The community that you want to belong will always be your choice. Community is all about belongingness, find the tribe that you can be part of. To know more on finding the right coworking space that fits to your needs, visit our blog here.