Coworking spaces are blossoming in the U.S. and, indeed, the globe in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era. While most workers learned to get used to and even embrace the work-at-home model, they were reluctant to return to the traditional workplace when the pandemic was declared over.
This has given rise to coworking spaces where you’re not working from home, but you’re not exactly working in a traditional, stale, uninspiring, cubicle-filled office environment either.
Entrepreneurial-minded and goal-oriented freelancers have never had to work in a traditional office. This is especially true for freelance writers who can call the world their office (so long as there’s Wi-Fi). But even freelancers find it difficult to work from home when the entire family is running around, creating distractions.
That’s where coworking spaces come in quite handy. From an LA coworking space to a New York City coworking space, you need to educate yourself on how to choose the right space for your freelance business.
According to a recent report by Remotebliss, as more people find themselves with remote work opportunities, coworking spaces seem to be popping up all over the place. With private offices, conference rooms, work rooms, speedy Wi-Fi, and even unlimited coffee, the coworking space is said to offer a work-friendly, focused vibe that you can find in a traditional office but without the sensation of being locked up in prison eight to ten hours per day.
You also could meet like-minded independents like yourself or even potential clients. This is a great way to network your business and to make more money at the same time. That said, what are some tips in choosing a coworking space that you’d consider for your business?
The Noise
You need to decide if you need complete silence to do your work or if you are okay with people chatting and moving about. This is considered one of the biggest factors when choosing the right coworking space.
If you’re looking at a big loft space that’s been converted from a factory, for instance, it might be a little bit too echoey for you. You will hear everyone’s conversations. If you’re a freelance writer, that kind of noise level can make it difficult to concentrate.
But some nicely designed coworking spaces offer rooms with differing noise levels, from almost complete silence to people talking and moving about freely. The quiet room might be similar to a library setting with people engaged in individual projects. But it might be attached to a central atrium where workers can collaborate on projects, eat, and drink without disturbing those people who require quiet.
The Cost
Says Remotebliss, if you haven’t found a business that is willing to reimburse you for your coworking space rent, price is said to be another top consideration. Many coworking spaces offer a simple, low price for a “hot desk membership.” This means you can choose a space at a long table or a free desk, plus you have the option of reserving phone booth rooms for Zoom meetings, conference calls, or personal calls.
Other coworking spaces will offer a deal for a partial day membership while others charge more for 24/7 unlimited access. A step up from this is a “dedicated desk membership,” where you simply pay for your own workspace or private office, which you can access at any time. This option is usually the most expensive.
The Style and Design
You might prefer a space that contains lots of floor-to-ceiling windows and offers lots of healthy natural sunlight. You might also be seeking out a place that shows off original artwork produced by local artists. Some coworking spaces have many plants hanging from the ceiling.
The point is that you’re seeking out a place that offers you not only a desk but inspiration. One of the greatest perks of remote or freelance work is the freedom to choose an environment that stimulates your brain and that makes you feel productive, creative, and just plain happy.
Some coworking spaces are very urban and funky, and yet others are more rural-spirited, with rustic walls and floors and even barn doors that can be opened wide on beautiful days.
If you’re a freelancer or a remote worker attached to a company, there’s nothing like the freedom that comes from choosing your own hours. But instead of locking yourself up in your apartment or house, why not engage in your work among other like-minded freelancers? At worst, you will gain some new friends and client leads. At best, your production just might double.
