Nowadays, coworking spaces have become very popular. They are gaining popularity because they provide flexible, affordable, and useful spaces within the community. A coworking space actually helps you work, whether you are a startup, a freelancer, or a small business, and it can be a crucial factor.
The right coworking space promotes work, innovation, and collaboration. But, in the case of making a poor decision, you may lose time, money, and the growth of your business. There are several mistakes people make in selecting a shared office.
The following blog will guide you through the top things to avoid in shared office space when renting office space, so that you can make the best choice.
1. Not Considering Your Business Needs
The needs of all businesses vary. One freelancer needs a quiet desk to work, whereas an expanding startup may need individual meeting rooms or collaborative areas.
When you do not plan your workflow, team members, or tools to be used, you may find yourself in a room that does not match your everyday work.
If the coworking space has an average internet speed, but you require high speed to make video calls, then your work will be affected. That’s why it is necessary to determine your needs first.
A coworking space for freelancers can be incredibly different from a coworking space aimed at small teams. First, make a checklist of what is most important to your work.
2. Ignoring Location and Accessibility
The location of your coworking space directly influences your working life. When the space is distant, you will be wasting your time commuting. A report issued by the U.S. Census Bureau suggests that the mean one-directional commuting time of U.S. workers is about 27.6 minutes (data gathered in 2021).
That is nearly an hour every day! A poor location may also cause problems when clients visit or when your staff need to meet. It is vital to take parking spots, available transport, and possible amenities supplied, such as cafes or banks near the workplace. This can decrease morale and productivity when ignored. Pick a location that is accessible and convenient for you, your employees, and your clients.
3. Overlooking Hidden Costs
Coworking spaces may offer low monthly prices, but actual costs often climb higher. Freelancers and startups quickly feel the burden of additional printing, meeting room, parking, or even coffee refills fees.
Most people make the common coworking lease mistake of not asking about these invisible charges before signing. Ask the questions like:
- What does the monthly rent covers?
- Do you add charges to guests or for late hours?
- Does the plan cover high-speed internet?
By asking these questions early, you will be able to manage your budget and prevent shocks. Request to see a list of full fees in written format and compare it with other coworking spaces.
4. Failing to Check Community and Culture Fit
Coworking offers more than a desk; it is a community. There are places that are made to serve creatives and freelancers, with a casual atmosphere. Others are more professional and suited for corporate teams.
If the culture doesn’t match your style, you feel out of place. For example, if you need a quiet area, but the community is loud and social, your focus will suffer. These are some things to avoid in coworking office space.
Make sure you go to the space, see people, and observe how members communicate with each other, before making a decision. An excellent culture fit can make you feel at home, connect, and even expand your business using networking.
5. Not Reviewing the Lease Carefully
Coworking spaces can appear flexible, yet others hold you to long agreements that are not according to your needs. Many people are in a hurry to sign without reading the lease papers. You should always read the lease carefully.
Be sure to ask about cancellation policies. Read the deposit rules to save money. Check to see if you can upgrade or downgrade plans to suit the business as you grow.
Whenever you get confused about any of the terms, ask a direct question. Taking your time now prevents making expensive mistakes later on.
6. Underestimating the Effect of Noise and Distractions
Noise is one of the biggest issues in common offices. There can be repeated phone calls, group discussions, or just typing loudly, and this can reduce your concentration. Research from the University of California, Irvine, shows that it takes approximately 23 minutes before one can get back to concentration after being distracted.
Avoid this by going to the coworking where there are silent spots or individual booths. You can use noise-canceling headphones. You should remember that distractions are one of the things to avoid in shared office space.
Take some time to be at the coworking space during prime hours to determine whether the noise level suits your working style before committing to a lease.
7. Not Reading Reviews or Asking for References
The lustrous brochure or a professional website might not tell the whole story of a coworking space. That is why it is good to read reviews and communicate with current members. There are general problems: noise, maintenance problems, and bad management, which can be identified through online reviews.
Alternatively, you can also visit the space and ask members some of the easiest questions, such as: Do you find the internet reliable? Or is it easy to reserve meeting rooms? This direct feedback is more useful than marketing promises.
Through testimonies, people share their experiences, so you can be able to avoid their mistakes. Before making a final decision, always do this; it will enable you to discover the actual advantages and disadvantages of the space.
8. Ignoring Security and Privacy Concerns
Security is also of top priority, but mostly neglected. A coworking office needs to be secure and have fast Wi-Fi, safe access points, and CCTV. The issue of privacy arises when it comes to client information or confidential telephone calls.
A coworking open office allows one to hear conversations. To cope with this, inquire about the availability of soundproof rooms or booths. Take your own security measures, such as VPN and powerful passwords, to protect data.
These points should not be ignored as they can cause a risk to your business information. Ensure that your coworking space has policies and systems clearly in place. A safe and private work setting will keep you focused and protect your business reputation.
9. Neglecting Amenities
The amenities will make a great difference to your working day. Fast Wi-Fi is essential, but also consider comfortable seating, optimal lighting conditions, meeting areas, and efficient air conditioning or heating systems.
A worker can access additional space that feels like home by using a kitchen, lockers, or wellness rooms. If you plan to have clients, consider whether the area appears professional, has separate meeting spaces, and even small details can make a big difference.
10. Not Planning for Growth
Your business may be different in a year. If you rent a place that cannot expand with you, you face an additional cost and stress of moving again. Most individuals forget to verify whether the coworking space can be scaled up or down.
You might need additional desks in order to accommodate new staff or more spacious meeting rooms. Without this option, you are likely to rent another space, which is a waste of money.
Always inquire with the coworking provider about how flexible they are with updates. In case you intend to expand, you can rent a space that will support growth as your business expands, which contributes to frequent changes of residence and various stresses.
Conclusion
Coworking offices may allow you to achieve more productively, meet new people, and promote the business. However, a lack of research before renting can prove to be problematic. Make sure to examine the location, prices, noise, facilities, and the lease. The suitable place must be convenient and affordable, and foster your long-term objectives.
Need a professional office to rent in Norwalk, CT? SONO50 offers loft-styled workspaces with contemporary design, advanced amenities, and breathtaking views. You can decide to rent an office to relax in or a coworking space that increases your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should freelancers look for in a coworking space?
Freelancers should choose an excellent location, Fast and high-speed and quality internet, and reasonable prices. Moreover, they should also look for spaces that support networking and community development.
How can I avoid hidden costs in shared office spaces?
Make sure that you obtain a complete list of what space provides, and do not accept anything not clearly outlined in the contract. Check on printing charges, internet, or using meeting rooms.
Are long-term coworking leases a good idea for startups?
Not always. Startups are known to evolve rapidly; thus, more flexible monthly plans are safer. When you have stabilized, you can consider longer contracts.
