Co-working or co-work spaces are becoming one of the latest buzzwords and ways of work in many industries. Co-working spaces are those areas in which entrepreneurs gather to work. It is a way to get a space outside of a home office and it also offers the feeling of “working with a team” or in a team environment even though all who use the co-working spaces are pursuing their own business endeavors.
When you’re trying to decide if co-working is an option for you here are some items to consider.
- Ask what amenities the co-working space provides. Some offer a kitchen space, access to internet, a meeting room or two, office equipment and private offices.
- Do you often need a place to meet customers and you don’t want them to come to your home or you’re looking to elevate your business profile to one that is more professional than meeting at the local Starbucks? Then a co-working space might be for you.
- Do you have to make a long term commitment or can you drop by and pay a rental fee and have a space for a day?
- Are you looking for ways to grow your own business network? A co-working environment might offer that. Remember, though the individuals at the co-working space might just be there to work without the distractions of a coffee shop or their house and may not be amenable to chatting and networking.
- Look for a co-working space that fits your personality and your work style. Some may be loud and the look industrial. Others may have a more corporate look and feel that may not mesh with your creative, artsy business.
Before you make a commitment to a co-working space, check it out for a day. Ask what the ongoing fees are and whether it’s less expensive to pre-pay. Do you have to pay for any of the amenities – making copies, having coffee, using the internet, etc. As with anything you do in your business, prior research makes sense so you can discover whether it’s a fit for you and your unique business.