Coworking spaces are disrupting the work place as we know it and your 9-5 just became that much better. Most start-ups are strapped for cash and can't afford to make a mistake or miss out on valuable information that could help grow their business.
If you're looking to start your own business or get out of the house, a coworking space is a great option. Here are some reasons why coworking works:
- Flexibility
Many coworking spaces have different options for different people. Not everyone works the same way so it is important that you find a coworking space that works with you and not against you. Maybe you only come into the office a few times a month - it wouldn't make sense for you to be locked into a 6-month lease. A lot of coworking spaces offer memberships just like a gym so you do things on your time. - Cost-Effective
Coworking spaces have a mix of offices within their space. Many coworking spaces include things like utilities and internet, so that's one less thing you have to add to your bill. Also, you can do things like print at a fraction of the cost for you to maintain a printer, buy the toner/ink, etc. You have to worry about running your business. You shouldn't have to worry about maintaining an office and coworking spaces let you get back to the important things. - Space Features
Coworking spaces are generally considered "cool" because most of them come equipped with high-tech gadgets and technologies designed to help you work smarter. From Smart TV's to white boards, it is important for a coworking space to have attributes that add to a member's experience. You want to know that the space can handle high network speeds or can handle a presentation you're going to show. - Space Benefits
The benefits of being in a coworking space are also important. The cost of moving your office can be high so ensure that a coworking space is equipped and ready to help you make that transition. Some coworking spaces come with the benefits of marketing help or they can put you in touch with administrative help.
You have to ask yourself is this a place you want to go to every day? Is this somewhere you can be productive and feel good about the work and people you interact with? Your coworking space becomes a part of the work you do. - Collaboration
Coworking spaces are notorious for their collaborative environments. Even the layout of the spaces are usually open and welcoming. The other companies you work along side with come from different backgrounds and the people you meet within them have a lot to offer the environment - just like you do. When you work in a collaborative work space, you have access to other people's knowledge, experience, advice, and network. You never know who can help you get to where you want to be. - Educational/Social Programs
A lot of coworking spaces offer programs to their members for free or for a very discounted price. The educational programs are often facilitated by respected leaders in a certain industry or they can be through an organization offering training for workers. Coworking spaces are not shy to holding their own social events as well - many coworking spaces hold happy hours where members can get together and mingle. Free beer is great too. - Food and Coffee
It is no secret that food brings people together. Many coworking spaces understand this and provide snacks and drinks to their members as a part of their membership. Forgot your lunch? No problem, open the fridge. Either way, you should enjoy yourself while you're working.
