Work from Home – or a Coworking Space?
For many remote workers, the boundary between work and personal life can become blurred when working from home, and they may also sometimes feel isolated. By utilizing a coworking space, you can physically separate your work and personal life, allowing you to disconnect from work when needed fully.
Working from home can be challenging due to potential distractions – like household chores, family members intruding, pets, and even personal responsibilities. It can be difficult to establish boundaries between work and personal life if you work from home, even though many deem it comfortable.
On the other hand, co-working spaces offer a professional setting with well-equipped workstations – which enhance your productivity and offer you the structure you need, boosting your motivation and productivity.
Moreover, coworking spaces also help foster a collaborative environment of like-minded individuals – which helps to motivate you and is also beneficial to your mental well-being (which we often neglect in the isolation of remote work). These are just a few benefits of working from a coworking space – especially if you struggle with working from home.
Let’s explore what you should look for before opting for a coworking environment.
What should you look for in a Co-working Space?
As the popularity of remote work has risen, co-working spaces have emerged as the most preferred option for professionals seeking a productive and collaborative work environment.
With several options available today, choosing a suitable coworking space can be challenging.
In this blog, we will discuss the factors you must consider when selecting a coworking space, highlighting the benefits and key considerations to remember.
Here’s a list of the most essential things to look for:
- Location
- Costs
- Facilities
- Networking
- Flexibility
- Work-Life Balance
Location (Proximity, accessibility to amenities, new opportunities)
Consider how convenient your location is – for your daily commute or for clients to reach out to you. Look for spaces near restaurants, cafes, gyms, and other facilities that can enhance your work-life balance. Choosing a location that aligns with your industry or target market increases your chances for networking and collaborations.
Cost (Membership plans, additional fees, value for money)
Evaluate the different membership options – daily, monthly, or annual. Determine which plan suits your needs and budget, and inquire about extra charges for amenities like meeting rooms, printing, or event participation to avoid unexpected costs. Additionally, assess the overall value your coworking space provides regarding facilities, services, and community support.
Facilities and amenities (Workspace design, meeting rooms, event spaces)
Consider the layout and design of your coworking space to ensure it promotes productivity and suits your working style – whether it’s an open-plan, a private office, or a dedicated desk space. Determine if your coworking space offers well-equipped meeting rooms and event spaces to accommodate client meetings, workshops, or networking events. Reliable internet and tech support are vital for a seamless workflow and productivity, so make sure you have both. Finally, look for kitchen facilities, refreshments, printing and scanning services, or secure storage options to enhance convenience.
Community and Networking (Events, collaborations, support)
Find out if your coworking space organizes networking events, workshops, or social activities that can help you connect with like-minded professionals. Assess the diversity and size of the community to determine the potential for collaboration and even knowledge sharing. Look for coworking spaces with a friendly and supportive environment, so you can build relationships and seek advice from other people.
Flexibility (Membership, scalability options)
Look for a place that offers flexible membership plans that can accommodate your changing needs – such as the ability to upgrade or downgrade your membership. If you anticipate business growth in the future, see if your coworking space can provide additional resources or offer a larger office space when needed.
Work-Life Balance (Integration, noise levels, privacy)
Evaluate whether your coworking space can support work-life balance initiatives like wellness programs, fitness facilities, or childcare services. Consider your need for a quieter workspace or the option for private areas – ensuring they are available if needed.
The Bottom Line
Selecting the best coworking space for your needs requires careful consideration of various factors – such as location, cost, community, flexibility, and even a work-life balance.
By keeping all this in mind, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your professional goals and enhances your overall work experience.
Remember to visit multiple coworking spaces, take tours, and gather feedback from current members to ensure you find the perfect coworking environment for your needs.
About ZEMLAR
ZEMLAR OFFICES is an all-in-one Business Workspace Solution Provider across Mississauga, Oakville, Scarborough, North York, Richmond Hill, Etobicoke, Burlington, and the Greater Toronto Area.
Since 2011, we have provided customized office space solutions to startups, entrepreneurs, and corporations. Our offices are uniquely designed to match various professional and personal tastes.
Our fully-furnished business centers include Private Executive Offices, Virtual Offices, Meeting Rooms, Co-Working Spaces, and One Day offices available at competitive rates and on flexible terms. So, whether you’re a startup entrepreneur looking to make a great first impression, or a small business looking for a physical presence without the cost of a lease or a long-term contract, ZEMLAR Offices has what you require.
To ensure that we offer a creative working environment that fosters a unique entrepreneurial spirit, we have a wide range of packages and services that can be provided per our client’s needs.
