Choose your co-working space wisely

Mumbai: Traditionally, if you were a freelancer or had your own business, the only choices of setting-up an office were either out of home or renting an office space. Thankfully now we see this changing, where the risk-taking ability of entrepreneurs has increased, funding for a good idea is possible and innovation in figuring out a solution for basic problems has become a norm.

One such resolution that was long due for small businesses, independent professionals, start-ups and companies with remote employees was to work in a professional environment. This enables collaboration and connection with teams and new people. Hence, it is ideal to get an office place for your business, without having to pay an exorbitant rent.

The solution that is here to stay is coworking. If you are yet to experience the world of shared workspaces, then here are some questions you need to ask yourself before taking up a co-working space:

Ask for a trial period

Most coworking spaces nowadays offer potential customers the experience of their space for a day or two. Therefore, ask for a trial as this will let you gauge if the area compliments your working style. It will also let you review the facilities it provides, the noise levels when it's fully occupied and availability of quiet areas or conference rooms for meetings and discussions. Thus, get a preview before you sign-up for the coworking space.

Know the cost

This is a significant aspect when determining on an ideal coworking space. With different daily, weekly or monthly plans available, identify the ones that suit your budget. Also, check if the space charges extra for any facilities like a dedicated desk, stationery, photocopy and print-outs, Wi-Fi over a certain limit, providing refreshments for external meetings, etc. It is also advisable to know its membership cancellation policy.

Identify the amenities

Most coworking spaces provide basic office amenities like high-speed WiFi, desks, chairs, meeting rooms, coffee machines, etc. However, it’s always good to be informed about the upper limit to the usage or extra pay post a certain limit. Some shared spaces also have fixed working hours, therefore, check if your work timings align with the facilities and the flexibility it can offer you. Before taking a final decision, be mindful of the services that you will use and the money you will end up spending or saving on them.

Be cognizant of the commute

Nothing is more tiring than being stuck in traffic. As most coworking spaces are located at prime locations in the cities, being aware of the time spent travelling during both peak and off-peak hours is important. Also, inquire with the coworking space about its other locations around the city that you or your team might be able to use to save time. So, make sure the coworking space that you select saves the commute time, resulting in a higher efficient workday.

The other occupants

The concept of a shared space is that you will be using it with other people so before closing the deal, know the other occupants. This will help you understand the noise levels that you can expect, the business and career development opportunities or presence of competitors in the same workspace. Though, most spaces house varied professionals like graphic designers, writers, coders, product developers, photographers, etc. identifying the ones that you can collaborate with for future should be a factor of consideration before signing the contract. Also, remember that you’ll be around these people many times a week so feeling comfortable around them should be a priority.

Check the ergonomic

An often ignored factor when evaluating a coworking space is the ergonomics. Since you will soon be spending hours and days sitting on the desk, a bad chair can not only spoil the experience for you but also lead to back problems. Hence, examining the furniture and the comfort it will provide when working for long hours. You can also ask the coworking space provider if they have options of the standing desk or easy chairs or even bean bags to relax and work.

Networking events opportunities

Many spaces often host social and networking events like Friday lunches, sports night, professional development workshops, etc for its members. This informal opportunity enables people of the same coworking space as well as other spaces of the same company to mingle, connect to a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and collaborate for future work opportunities. These events also give a break from the daily routine to relax and get back to work with a fresh mind and sometimes a newer approach the next day.

Understand the commitment

Though shared spaces offer flexible usage plans, some might require a minimum commitment and service of a notice period before cancelling the membership. Hence, evaluate the flexibility and guarantees if any, or else, you could end up paying extra money unnecessary.

Working out of coworking spaces is fun and can prove to be a refreshing break from working from home. So, definitively try them out but your money is important and allocating it in the right place is crucial. Thus, select your new office wisely.

*Disclaimer: This article has been contributed by Mishu Ahluwalia, Founder & CEO, GoHive. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of The Asian Age and The Asian Age does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.