5 Tips for Finding the Perfect Shared Workspace

Find the perfect shared workspace is no easy task! Check out these tips to help you know what to look for.

Coworking spaces have become a very popular option for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who look to combine job flexibility with an environment that offers socialization and networking opportunities.

When searching for a coworking space, there are various aspects to consider, ranging from how easily you can reach it to what amenities it offers to how much it costs. Here are some great tips for choosing the right workspace.

1. Choose a Space with a Convenient Location

When looking for a coworking space, location is certainly a major factor. These venues are now popping up everywhere, especially in big cities. Recent statistics show that, in 2022, 1.08 million people used coworking spaces in the US alone, with the average coworking space fitting 105 people. Despite there being lots of options, look for one that can shorten the times it takes to get to work.

It should also be in an area easily accessible by public transportation or car. Moreover, if you plan to use your coworking space as a place where to meet clients or partners, a central location in your town would help.

Ideally, you also want a coworking space that's not far from restaurants or coffee shops, as these venues can be great places to hang out when taking short breaks from work.

2. Find a Space With the Right Atmosphere

Many people underestimate the importance of atmosphere when choosing a coworking space.

You want to work in an environment that simulates productivity, creativity, socialization, and collaboration.

Assessing a space's atmosphere can be challenging, but you can get a good idea of it by asking for feedback from current members or reading online reviews.

Many coworking spaces allow you to buy daily tickets and not just long-term subscriptions. You can use these tickets to test the space for a couple of weeks to evaluate whether the atmosphere and the energy are right for you.

3. Evaluate Available Amenities

Coworking spaces typically offer a wide range of features and services to help you make the most of your workday.

First, you should make sure all essential services are available. These include high-internet speed, reliable power outlets, and proper furniture. Ideally, your coworking space should have printing and scanning capabilities, as well as on-site cafes and restaurants.

You should also make sure the space offers some practical amenities like printing and scanning capabilities, especially if you need them for your job.

An on-site café and restaurant are also ideal for taking a break and grabbing a snack without having to leave the workspace.

Depending on your type of job, you may also need conference and meeting rooms. Many coworking spaces allow you to book these daily or hourly. These are particularly helpful when you need a place to discuss with your clients, partners, or colleagues.

4. Look for the Right Mix of Socialization and Privacy

Many remote workers and freelancers use coworking because working from home can be a bit alienating in the long term. Shared spaces give you a place where you can work without sacrificing socialization opportunities.

Your coworking space should have both quiet rooms and spaces where workers can fully focus on their job and group meeting rooms for more social activities.

The best coworking spaces offer a full spectrum of privacy-socialization mixes. Depending on your current needs, you can book a private room or a shared workroom. Similarly, you can simply hang out at the on-site café or participate in actual social events organized by the space.

5. Take Costs into Account

One of the reasons many workers and freelancers prefer using a coworking space to renting a full office is that it allows them to have a fixed place of work while also saving a significant amount of money.

A fixed desk subscription at a coworking space may only cost $60 or $70 dollars while you may have to pay more than $800 just to rent a small office in the same area.

How much you will end up paying for renting a desk will depend on many factors. Usually, the more central the area and the more amenities available, the higher the fee will be. With careful search and assessment, you can find an affordable coworking space that meets your specific needs.