There are so many benefits to working remote. No commute, comfy clothes, unlimited access to snacks, ability to save on pet and child care and the constant feeling of the comfort of home.
However, for many, working remote can feel isolating. This is the thinking behind the new trend of co-working spaces for remote workers and startup companies.Instead of a home office, many who work away from a traditional office are migrating their business to one of these.
But there are many pros and cons to weigh before deciding if a co-working space is right for you and your company. Here are all the things you should be thinking through before making the decision to move your business to a co-working space.
What are Co-Working Spaces?
Co-working spaces are alternative options for remote workers or small teams. Instead of a home office or working from a coffee shop, there are hundreds of rentable spaces popping up in cities across the world. These spaces allow those who have this flexible working option to come together and share a space. Many find it motivating, see it as an opportunity to network and enjoy switching things up and working somewhere new.
A typical co-working space has a series of office suites that vary in size. Most offer conference room options that are available by reservation and larger, more open spaces for more casual and collaborative work. Some offer perks such as unlimited coffee, beer on tap, televisions and more for when you’re ready for a break.
The Benefits
As previously mentioned, working from home can be isolating. When you’re isolated and checking in with your team over the phone or through email, staying motivated can be challenging. Others may find it difficult to get into the right headspace to be productive at home. The last thing you need is to find yourself distracted by television or surfing the internet.
The main benefit of a co-working space is being surrounded by hardworking individuals who are typically excited and passionate about the work they are doing. You’ll likely find people who are starting a new company or taking on projects assigned by a larger company.
By choosing to unite with other individuals through a co-working space you can stay inspired and broaden your network. This creates a unique opportunity to learn new skills and possibly give you access to experts in your field.
Co-working spaces will also provide you with a healthy divide between work and home. The ability to close your laptop, pack up at the end of the day and drive home puts a barrier between your work life and your home life. When you’re working from a home office, it can be all too easy to start work early in the morning and continue through the evening. Having a healthy work-life balance is important.
The Downfalls
While there are many benefits to co-working spaces, there are also some setbacks. For one, renting a co-working space costs money. A home office is free. Plus, you have the ability to write that space in your home off on your taxes at the end of the year.
Will moving to a co-working space become distracting to you? Will you find yourself making use of the in-office perks and networking more than you intended? If you have trouble staying focused when it matters most, co-working spaces may not be for you.
Lastly, you will have to have your own reliable technology in order for a co-working space to work for you. Be prepared your own laptop, docking station, speakers, and any technology that you need to get your job done. The co-working space may provide some tools, like a printer or copier, but you will be responsible for ensuring all your gear is working properly.
There are several ups and downs to joining a co-working space as a remote worker. The most important things to consider are your own productivity, happiness and your belief that a co-working space will help you feel fulfilled in your work. Co-working spaces are an investment in your professional life and can be very beneficial when chosen for the right reasons.