Which coworking space is right for your business?
Coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular. In fact, they’re projected to make up 30% of all office spaces by 2030, up from just 2% in 2023. All this means that it can be, well, a bit painful if you’re looking to start a membership somewhere. Loads of buzzwords, membership variations, marketing, endless options; who can really blame you? It’s hard to know where to start.
With so much variety, it’s important you research what aspects of a coworking membership will be most important for you. This is because different coworking spaces will likely be more beneficial to you depending on why you’re using them – for example, you could be using them as somewhere to work instead of at home, or maybe even for a small business. In this article, we will look at what we think you should consider most when deciding what works best for you.
What to look for in a coworking space
Trial Period
Many coworking spaces offer trial periods or day passes, allowing you to experience the space before committing fully. Take advantage of these opportunities to test the coworking space and see if it meets your needs. Perhaps go there and work for a day, experiencing what it has to offer – this may include facilities, seating areas and networking opportunities. What is there to lose? The surest way to know if something is right for you is to try it yourself, and with a trial, you can do so with no strings attached.
Location and Transport Links
Ideally, a coworking space should be easily accessible for you, your team, clients, partners, and other businesses you frequently interact with. A central location with great transportation links is a must. Additionally, the surrounding area should offer amenities such as cafes, restaurants, and shops, and at affordable prices too. This may sound trivial, but if your team ends up having to spend outrageous amounts on their lunch (you know what London prices are like, even for sandwiches), then they will have less incentive to leave home. It will devalue whatever great benefits the coworking space provides itself.
Cost
Budget is a significant factor when selecting a coworking space. Compare the pricing plans of different coworking spaces and determine what is included in the cost. Some spaces offer flexible membership options, such as daily, weekly, or monthly passes, while others may require long-term commitments. Ensure that the cost aligns with your budget and provides good value for the amenities and services offered.
Flexibility and Package Options
Flexibility is essential, especially for businesses that may experience growth or changes in their work patterns. Look for coworking spaces that offer flexible membership plans and the ability to scale up or down as needed. Some coworking spaces provide options for private offices, dedicated desks, or hot desks, allowing you to choose the setup that best suits your needs. Unsure which of these package types you would require? Luckily, once again we’re here to help!
Amenities and Services
Different coworking spaces offer various amenities and services. Consider what is essential for your work and productivity. Common amenities include high-speed internet, meeting rooms, phone booths, printing facilities, kitchen areas, and comfortable workstations. Some coworking spaces also offer additional perks such as fitness centres! Make a list of must-have amenities and compare them across different coworking spaces.
Community and Networking Opportunities
One of the main benefits of coworking spaces is the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals. Consider the community and culture of the coworking space. Are there regular networking events, workshops, or social activities? Admittedly, networking events can become quite tiresome (there’s only so many times you can introduce yourself and your profession before it gets dull), but you’ll count yourself lucky that you went if it leads to new business opportunities! So, visit the coworking space and interact with current members to get a feel for the community.
Technology and Infrastructure
Reliable technology and infrastructure are essential, with high speed internet usually coming standard for most coworking spaces. Check if the coworking spaces you look at provide access to advanced technology, such as video conferencing equipment and smartboards, which can be beneficial for meetings and presentations. Pro tip: another thing you can perhaps look at if you go for a trial is the availability of plug sockets! There’s nothing more annoying than watching your laptop battery slowly seep away because there’s no plugs to be found in the building.
Reviews and Recommendations of the coworking space
Lastly, research reviews and recommendations from current or past members of the coworking space. It’s the best way to be completely sure that your pick is the right one.
Coworking spaces at Venture X, West London
At Venture X, we offer fantastic coworking spaces in West London at two West London locations, Chiswick Park and White City. Take a trip to our homepage to book a tour or get more information!
