How To Choose a Coworking Space

Originally published at: How To Choose a Coworking Space

Imagine a workspace where you’ll feel at home, surrounded by digital nomads with a similar mindset, powered by high-speed internet and good facilities. Coworking spaces are now the first choice of many entrepreneurs, freelancers, and innovative companies as they allow a working space with fewer costs, increased networking opportunities, and flexibility.

Statistics show that there are currently more than 18,000 coworking spaces in the world. According to a survey by Global Coworking Unconference Conference (GCUC), 67 percent of people who cowork have stated that they’ve improved at their work. More than 80 percent have said they get more motivated in a coworking space. Given this, it’s now more important to know more about the coworking spaces.

In this article, we’re going to provide an outline for you to choose your next coworking space. Let’s move on!

Benefits of a Coworking Space

As increased motivation is a huge incentive, there are many other advantages of working in a shared office. We’ve composed a list of some key benefits of a coworking space that will guide you on your search for a shared office.

Increase in Creativity and Focus

Before applying for my Golden Visa, I went back and forth between hiring an advisory firm or not. Finally, I chose to work with one. In hindsight, I’m glad I did. Technically, I could have done it by myself, but it would have involved a lot of headache and trouble.

Flexibility Within the Workplace

Coworking spaces provide flexibility. The rates and contracts for these spaces are adjustable. If you want to try a new way of working but it doesn’t work out, don’t worry about canceling as they usually allow easy cancellations. 

Cost Savings

Coworking spaces are more affordable than opening an office of your own. As most amenities such as internet connection, desks, and printing services are included, you’ll save money, time, and effort.

Opportunity for Networking

Most coworking spaces organize networking events. This will help you to socialize with fellow nomads. You can also benefit from creating new business opportunities. Also, don’t miss out all the fun!

Learning New Skills

Coworking spaces are ideal to keep up with the latest technologies and developments. As you meet other professionals during the day, you’ll be exposed to many other businesses. This is a great opportunity to acquire new skills. 

How To Choose a Coworking Space

Now that you know some of the benefits of a coworking space, the question is, how do you choose? Luckily, we’ve got you covered. 

Location

When deciding on your coworking space, the location is a huge criteria. Is it close to the metro station? Is it far from your accommodation? Are you going to drive? Is there any parking service? Are you meeting clients during the day? Make sure you consider all these before you make a decision. The neighborhood is important too. If you decide on a coworking space in an area where there are parks, nice restaurants, and supermarkets, you can give a break during the day…

Budget

Before you commit yourself to a long-term membership, consider the budget. Some coworking spaces offer packages that include many amenities. If you’re not going to benefit from those, it’s wise to look for other options. Also, don’t forget to ask if there will be additional costs that aren’t stated on the policy. 

Infrastructure and Amenities

A fully-equipped coworking space will improve your day. When you look for your next office, check if they include every device you might need. If a printer or scanner is a must for you, look for a space that includes them. Internet connection is another issue. If you’re making online calls during the day, you’re going to need a good connection. Free coffee and a meeting room are also good for an efficient working day.

Flexibility

We know flexibility matters to you most as a digital nomad. For this reason, we advise you to check the day and time flexibility before choosing your workspace. Flexibility with the seating is important too. The ability to change desks during the day will be good for you.

Coworking Spaces Around The World

Today there are many coworking chains along with independent coworking spaces. Depending on your location and preferences, you can easily spot a shared office in almost every big city around the world. Below we’ve made a list for you.

WeWork: WeWork is one of the most famous coworking companies. They’ve spaces in most cities all around the world. They’re very good at creating a positive coworking environment. Through their innovation, they’ve made significant benefits to the coworking concept. WeWork offers both open and private workspace.

Impact Hub: Impact Hub is a huge community with more than 100 locations across five continents. Apart from offering a shared working space, they support entrepreneurial innovation through events, labs, and programs.

Spaces: Spaces is a platform for an international entrepreneurial community. Along with coworking membership and a dedicated desk, they also offer virtual office service. Spaces offers coworking opportunities in 415 locations around the globe.

Serendipity LabsSerendipity Labs is a network of private and flexible workspaces. They combine art, design, and technology to deliver a consistent workplace. They’re located in many states in the US.

FactoryBased in Berlin, Factory is a leading destination for digital nomads. They’ve served many famous organizations, including Uber. Besides operating as a coworking space, Factory is an international community of innovators.

Other coworking environments include the Crew Collective Café in Montreal Canada. They offer a unique and almost royal setting to conduct your work. This coworking space takes the inspiration of a café setting, and with that, gives off a historic and monumental vibe. Bonus: It’s open every day!

Another coworking environment is Duke Studios in the United Kingdom which offers a more traditional environment. With a more ‘office-like’ vibe,  this workspace offers great facilities for digital nomads.

Conclusion

There you have it. Those are some of the main reasons and benefits to why having a coworking environment could be beneficial to you. Have you any experience in coworking settings? Let us know!