A good coworking space is more than just free coffee and fast Internet. As the needs of the modern workplace continue to change, culture and community have emerged as essential tenets of a diverse, productive and profitable business. And small agencies, boutique firms and freelancers alike are turning to coworking spaces for the balance of benefits and amenities that traditional or home offices just can’t offer.
Coworking spaces are popping up all over the country as more and more people are realizing the benefits of working in a collaborative environment. But not all coworking spaces are created equal.
In this guide, we will outline the key features that make a great coworking space, as well as what to weigh when choosing the right space for yourself or your team.
The Changing World of Work.
Work shouldn’t be synonymous with dreary, dull or barely tolerable. Work should be a playground for everyone’s inner creative: lively, inspiring and welcoming.
That playground should give leaders the freedom to ideate and iterate. It should give implementers the room to tinker and tear down. And it should give creatives the latitude to concept, capture and crystallize abstract ideas into tangible experiences.
As more companies begin to understand the impact of their environment on corporate health and productivity, the more retention and growth they’ll experience too.
It’s more than just churning out numbers or corralling clients. From boutique agencies to product brands and every other vertical, industry or niche in between, coworking spaces are no longer just four walls. They stretch beyond the confines and leave a lasting impression on everyone who walks through the doors, sits at a conference table, finds a cozy booth or takes a selfie in front of a feature wall.
There’s a lot to love. But what specifically can the right coworking space do for you?
What should a modern coworking space offer to create a compelling and productive working environment?
The benefits of modern coworking spaces.
From off-site meetings and product shoots to networking events and wellness seminars, coworking spaces have evolved from flexible office solutions to a full-service entrepreneurial incubator. With remote work on the rise, some companies are choosing collaborative environments to support the wide range of team member preferences.
Coworking spaces are where ideas go to thrive, companies go to grow and individuals go to reconnect with their mission and purpose—in an atmosphere that promotes both.
For years, companies like Apple and Google have spearheaded the redefinition of the workplace by giving employees what used to be thought of as “unconventional” or even “radical” to support their productivity. That experience shouldn’t be limited to high growth tech in the Valley. The goal of any company, large or small, should be to facilitate the success of their team.
And that goes way beyond task management software and meeting rooms with whiteboards.
What To Consider When Choosing A Coworking Space.
One of the first things to consider when choosing a coworking space is its location. You’ll want to make sure that the space is easily accessible and central to major transportation hubs, dining and entertainment. That makes it comfortable for team members and clients alike—whether someone needs a quick coffee or bite to eat to recharge, or you need to make a big impression to close a deal.
Amenities are also extremely important. Private offices or meeting spaces, booths for team huddles, content rooms and production studios—your coworking space should have everything you need to confidently work in one place. Maintaining productivity should be paramount and limiting travel in order to execute is key to that end.
Can you build your network while you work? Don’t be afraid to take a tour and get the lay of the land. A good coworking space should have a great mix of professionals that contribute to the overall creative energy of the workplace. You might find mentorship from someone a bit farther ahead on the journey or someone to hire so you get down the road that much faster. The key is being in an environment that not only fosters your own work agenda but also offers opportunities to cross pollinate and build a community atmosphere.
And finally, cost. Every profitable business should look for ways to decrease overhead—without sacrificing productivity. So a coworking space can be a great cost saving option. And you also want to make sure you have flexible terms instead of being locked in to long leases without room for if and when your business needs may change.
Now that you know what to look for in a coworking space, it’s time to continue your search. You can use our guide to narrow your options and find the perfect space for your needs.
And if you’re in the Miami area, book a tour at Ampersand Studios! We offer a host of competitive amenities, diverse meeting and production spaces, an engaging community both on-site and virtually, and unparalleled support for your personal and professional growth.
See what makes us different.
