How To Pick The Right Coworking Space For You: A Quick Guide

Clearly, we now have more work model options than ever. From working from home to working in coffee shops, on beaches, or in more traditional office settings, we have all the options we need to be productive and achieve our goals as far as work goes.

Coworking spaces are increasingly popular among remote workers and digital nomads, but if you’re in the market for such a space, you might easily feel overwhelmed by the range of options.

How to pick the right coworking space for you?

Read on and find out more.

Location, Location, Location

The first thing you need to take into account when picking a coworking space is its location. For some people, it might be more important to have a coworking space that’s near their home, so they can easily walk or bike there.

Others might want a coworking space that’s in the city center, so they can be near public transportation.

Think about your daily routine and how a potential coworking space would fit into it. If you know you won’t be able to make it to a space that’s further away, then it’s probably not worth considering.

You might think it will give you the incentive to get farther away from home, but chances are it won’t happen — not when deadlines, client calls, and a million errands are waiting on your to-do list and you have to choose between working in your PJs and commuting for 1-2 hours to get to the fancier coworking space downtown.

Amenities

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential coworking spaces based on location, it’s time to start looking at the amenities each space offers.

Do they have fast Wi-Fi? Is there a coffee machine and tea kettle? Are there places to take calls without disturbing others? Is there parking lots if you’re getting there by car — or bike racks if you prefer biking down to the office?

If you plan on working from the coworking space frequently, you’ll want to make sure it has everything you need to be comfortable and productive.

Some spaces might have a kitchen with a fridge you can use, or they might offer discounts at nearby restaurants. Others might have showers so you can freshen up after a workout before getting down to business.

Access to Shops, Food, and Coffee Places

Along with amenities, another important thing to consider is the surrounding area. It may not be an equally critical factor for everyone, but it’s still something to keep in mind.

For example, is the coworking space near any shops or restaurants? If you need to buy something quickly or want to grab lunch, will you be able to do so without having to walk for 15 minutes?

Or, if you have kids, is the coworking space near a kindergarten or their school? This might make it easier for you to drop them off and take them from school when needed.

Flexibility

When it comes to coworking spaces, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The space that works for your friend or colleague might not be the right fit for you.

And that’s perfectly okay!

It’s important that you find a space that suits your needs and makes you feel comfortable. Some may charge on a monthly basis. Others will allow you to block office desks and time slots when you need them. Pick the model that works for you — that’s the whole point (and beauty!) of coworking spaces.

Cost

Of course, one of the most important factors to consider when picking a coworking space is its cost.

Different spaces will charge different rates, and it’s important that you find one that’s affordable for you. If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of coworking spaces that offer flexible membership options, so you don’t have to give up.

Privacy

This might not be that much of a criterion for someone who doesn’t have to hop on meetings, but it can definitely be a make-or-break factor for those who do.

Some coworking spaces have private meeting rooms that members can book for an hour or two. This way, you can have all the privacy you need without having to worry about disturbing others.

The Right Vibes

Say what you may, but you have to vibe with your coworking space. Before signing on the dotted line, visit the office and take a look at the surroundings, people, and overall ambiance.

Do the people working there look happy? Do they interact with each other? Are they engaged in conversations or do they keep to themselves?

You’ll be spending a lot of time in this space, so it’s important that you feel comfortable there and that the people around you inspire you to do your best work.

Picking the right coworking space is an important decision — but it shouldn’t feel like rocket science. As long as you keep these factors in mind, you’re bound to find a space that’s perfect for you and your needs!