Co-working spaces have grown in popularity over the last few years as companies embrace more flexible ways of working. Demand for flexible workspaces in the UK has risen 22% in 2022.
A typical coworking hub will offer various working options, from hotdesking to small private offices, depending on your size and budget. As a result, they’re ideal for small businesses, as it allows some flexibility and adaptability as your company grows.
But if you’ve decided to join a coworking space, where do you start? We’ll guide you through each step to find the most suitable co-working space for you and your business.
Finalise Your Budget
Firstly, it’s vital to set a budget. Co-working spaces will generally invoice per month, but you may find a better deal if you secure a long-term contract, say for a year or longer. Your final budget will dictate the size of the space you can get and what extra amenities you can access in your co-working space.
Clarify Your Priorities
What are your top priorities for your coworking space? What’s the main reason you’re considering working in one? Make sure you understand the kinds of amenities you’re looking for and where you want to work, as all coworking spaces will offer slightly different facilities. For example, you may want to consider whether you need parking, showers, bike storage, or a dog-friendly space.
Decide How You Want to Work
Co-working spaces offer lots of different ways to work, from daily hotdesking to private offices and meeting rooms–so you’ll have to decide what’s most appropriate for your small business. If it’s just you and a few employees, you may consider purchasing monthly hot desking for everyone, which could cost between £150 and £400 per person depending on your location and how often you want to use your office.
The good thing about coworking spaces is you can always adjust later on, for example, if your business grows enough to justify more days per week at your coworking space, or perhaps if you need a small private office.
Do Some Research
You’re probably familiar with some of the biggest brands in coworking spaces, like WeWork. However, you might find other options in your area after doing some online research. Depending on location or facilities, costs vary considerably per co-working place, so it’s best to shop around first.
Many co-working spaces will offer free tours of their space, which are always worth doing. A tour might be particularly valuable if you have specific priorities like accessibility.
Our Advice
A co-working space can give you access to modern office space at a fraction of the cost. It can give you access to networking opportunities and the space to build relationships between you and your employees.
We share an office with Unity Co-working Maidstone’s newest Co-working space. If you quote Accsys10 when you sign up you can get 10% off the cost of a desk at Unity Co-Working for your first 6 months. https://www.unitycoworking.co.uk/