So you’ve decided to get started with coworking. Congratulations, you’re one step closer to a more productive, modern and cheaper way of working.
But you’re now unsure on what to do next and how to take the first step. With coworking being such a new concept, it can be difficult to know where to start with coworking.
But using this guide, we’ll help you choose your perfect coworking space.
Let’s get to it!
6 steps to choosing the right coworking space
We’ve split this process down into 6 different sections.
As we go through this guide, I recommend you jot down your thoughts and requirements of your perfect coworking space so it makes your decision easier at the end.
1. Pick your location
One of the most important things you need to consider is the location of your coworking space. I suggest you think about this first.
Are you looking to commute to your coworking space or would you prefer to live a few minutes walk or drive away? Most people don’t want to spend hours commuting to their coworking space as it takes the enjoyment out of coworking altogether.
Many coworking spaces are located in major cities around the world. Cities such as London, New York and Singapore are all great options for coworking. However, coworking spaces are popping up in smaller cities as well, giving you some options potentially closer to home.
Once you’ve settled on a city, you then need to consider the specific area. This is especially the case for large cities like London where different areas are synonymous with certain industries.
2. Set your budget
One of the first things you should do arguably before you pick your location is set a budget. You need to know exactly how much you can afford.
The location will have a big impact on the overall cost of your coworking space. Coworking hubs like London will be far more expensive than other cities in the UK, Manchester for example.
3. Amount of space required
How much desk or office space do you need? Is it just one of you or are you employing a team of 20? Certain coworking spaces might not have the availability to host 20 new members so it’s important to work this out early on.
4. Type of working environment
What type of workspace are you after?
Are you a solo freelancer looking to get into hot desking? Do you need your own dedicated desk with more privacy and space? Or do you need a private office with a conference room?
Another way of asking this question is how you’d like to work. Do you want to be in a social, collaborative environment or a quiet and private space?
These are all things to consider when it comes to the specific type of workspace you’re after.
5. What amenities do you need?
One of the main benefits of using coworking space over traditional offices is the amenities and facilities on offer.
Whilst not everyone wants access to a gym 24/7, it’s a nice feature to have available and it’s still important to consider what you want and need out of your workspace. Here are some things to consider when it comes to amenities at coworking spaces:
- Cafe
- Kitchen
- Gym
- 24/7 hour access
- Printing capabilities
- Conference and board rooms
- Free WiFi
The above list should give you a few points to jot down.
Whilst some coworking locations will offer all of the above, do you really need all that? You’ll be paying for any facilities that you don’t require.
6. Finding the right coworking space
Now you know more about exactly what you’re after, it makes the next process of finding a number of suitable locations much easier.
I recommend you short list a couple of coworking spaces which you like the look of. You can then check them out in more detail and pick your favourite coworking space.
In terms of finding specific coworking spaces, there are various websites out there that you can use. If you’re looking to go with one of the big-name coworking providers such as Regus, WeWork etc. you can go directly to their website and search for locations.
If you’re after a more independent coworking location, there are various directory websites which you can use.
Wrap up
Whilst you might feel a little overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the perfect coworking space, it’s really not too taxing when you break it down.
Get things going by working out your budget and setting your location and the rest will fall into place.
Good luck with finding your new coworking space.