15 Best Tips for How to Choose a Coworking Space (2024)

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Feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of coworking space options? We can help!

At the Tutor Resource, we’ve been working remotely since 2012 and we’ve been digital nomads since 2019. We’ve worked in coworking spaces all over the world in that time, so we’ve figured out a pretty good system for how to choose a coworking space.

And since this website is all about helping remote workers and digital nomads, we can’t keep it all to ourselves! Here are our go-to tips that’ll help you pick the best coworking space for you and your personal needs.

Read on to navigate the coworking landscape with confidence and discover the space that aligns with your professional aspirations and work style. Let’s jump in!

How to Choose a Coworking Space You’ll Love

Choosing the ideal coworking space is akin to selecting a second home for your work life. It’s just as important as if you were designing your home office, in our opinion anyway.

To facilitate this decision, here’s a concise shopping guide that can refine your options and lead you to a workspace where productivity flourishes.

1. Consider Your Goals

Reflect on what you hope to achieve in a coworking space. Are you seeking networking opportunities, a quiet place to focus, or a blend of both? Let your professional goals guide your choice.

2. Define Expectations

Determine what’s non-negotiable for you. Do you need 24/7 access, a particular location, or specific amenities? Establish your criteria early in your search.

3. Ease of Commuting

The perfect coworking space should be easily reachable. Consider your mode of transport and commute time to sustain a healthy work-life balance.

4. Evaluate Amenities

A rich amenity list can enhance your coworking experience. Be sure that the amenities suit your needs and preferences.

After all, if you’re a coffee connoisseur and the coworking space doesn’t have free coffee – or worse – only offers Nescafe instant, that might be a dealbreaker.

5. Community Benefits

Like amenities, a vibrant community can also impact your overall experience at a coworking space. Look at the community offerings to ensure they align with your social and/or professional interests.

6. Determine Space Requirements

Your spatial needs can vary dramatically, whether you prefer an open space for collaboration or a private office for concentration. Seek a space that accommodates your work style.

7. Prioritize Employee Satisfaction

If you’re considering how to choose a coworking space on behalf of a team, employee comfort and happiness are paramount. A content team is often a more productive one.

8. Tour the Facilities Before Committing

Before you make a decision, personally visit potential coworking spaces. This will give you a feel for the atmosphere and enable you to envision your daily routine there.

9. Work Environment and Vibe

The energy of a coworking space can significantly impact your work. Observe the vibe during your tour; your ideal work environment should inspire and motivate you.

10. Flexibility

Many remote workers and freelancers require flexibility. Look for terms that allow you to scale up or down as needed and don’t lock you into long contracts.

11. Internet Speed

In the digital age, a fast and reliable internet connection is a deal breaker. Ensure your chosen space offers high-speed internet to keep up with your online demands.

12. Privacy Options

Even though coworking is communal, there are times when you’ll need privacy. Find out if there are private booths, soundproof rooms, or phone booths for confidential conversations and focused work.

13. Security

Your work may entail handling sensitive information. Secure Wi-Fi, lockable storage, and surveillance systems should be part of your checklist to keep your data safe.

14. Budget

Analyze the cost-effectiveness of your coworking options. Budget accordingly, keeping in mind that the cheapest option might not offer the best value for your specific needs.

15. Extra Costs

Probe for any hidden fees or extra costs such as printing, booking private rooms, or access to special events. These can add up and affect your budget, especially if you’re a digital nomad.

How NOT to Choose a Coworking Space

In our tenure as digital nomads, remote workers and coworking space users, we’ve found there are a few things you should avoid doing when considering how to choose a coworking space.

1. Solely Relying on a Friend’s Recommendation

Just because a friend finds a coworking space amazing doesn’t automatically mean it will suit your needs. Everyone has different work habits, preferences, and requirements. It’s crucial to do your own research before making a decision.

2. Overlooking the Contract Details

Never ignore the details in your contract. Some spaces might have hidden fees or strict rules that could impact your comfort or budget. Make sure you carefully read and understand all the terms before signing.

3. Neglecting to Consider Location

A great coworking space in an inconvenient location can cause more harm than good. Consider aspects like commute time, proximity to clients, access to amenities, and even the neighborhood’s safety when considering how to choose a coworking space.

4. Disregarding Workspace Environment

The ambiance and culture of a coworking space are important factors that can affect your productivity and satisfaction levels. If possible, spend some time at the place during peak hours to get an accurate feel for its atmosphere.

5. Ignoring Future Scalability

Your current team size may fit perfectly into a space now, but what if you need to expand? Always consider whether a potential coworking space can adapt to accommodate your growth plans in order not to limit yourself down the line.

Final Thoughts on How to Choose a Coworking Space

Armed with these helpful pointers and a keen eye for detail, you can confidently assess various coworking spaces.

We always tour a coworking space before committing, even for a day pass, because it’s the best way to learn about the facilities.

By carefully considering factors such as amenities, community atmosphere, and location, you can choose a space that not only aligns with your work style but also propels your career forward.

Remember to weigh each factor according to personal preference – the perfect space for you is out there, waiting to be discovered.

Coworking Space FAQs

Do you still have questions about how to choose a coworking space? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

What exactly is a coworking space?

A coworking space is a shared working environment where individuals and teams from different organizations can work independently or collaboratively in a communal setting. These spaces typically offer a range of amenities such as desks, offices, meeting rooms, internet access, and other office essentials, geared towards fostering a productive and flexible work atmosphere.

How does coworking space membership work?

Coworking space memberships vary but generally offer flexible terms that can include daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly access. Memberships can be tiered based on the type of workspace required such as open seating, dedicated desks, or private offices and often provide additional benefits like access to communal areas, event spaces, and workshops.

What are the main benefits of using a coworking space?

Coworking spaces offer a variety of benefits such as networking opportunities with other professionals, reduced operational costs compared to traditional office leases, flexible work hours, high-quality amenities, and a vibrant, creative atmosphere that can increase productivity for freelancers, remote workers, and start-ups.

Can a coworking space improve my work-life balance?

Many find that coworking spaces can improve work-life balance by providing a dedicated work environment separate from home, reducing distractions, and setting a clear boundary between work and personal life. The flexibility in work location and hours also allows for a more personalized schedule that can cater to individual needs.

Are coworking spaces suitable for all types of businesses?

Coworking spaces are designed to be versatile and can cater to a wide range of business types, including freelancers, entrepreneurs, start-ups, and even larger corporations that require flexible or satellite offices. They offer various amenities and can be a great fit for those looking for a collaborative and dynamic work environment.