How to Use a Coworking Space as a Freelancer
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If you work as a freelancer but find that you miss the office atmosphere, coworking spaces could be the answer for you. But what exactly are coworking spaces, and how do you use them?
In today’s post, we’ll take a look at what coworking spaces can offer freelancers and how you can make the most of them in your freelance career.
What Is a Coworking Space?
A coworking space is a type of office or other practical space designed for freelancers and remote workers. Individuals using a coworking space work independently on their projects while sharing the space with others.
Coworking spaces might be provided by companies for remote employees, or independent freelancers can access them through a membership scheme. These memberships usually cover different options, such as:
- Hot desking: Desks are rented on a short-term basis and often across multiple locations.
- Permanent desks: Access is provided to the same workspace regularly over a long term.
- Private offices: Cubicles or larger rooms that offer more privacy are available.
The spaces are usually furnished with equipment and facilities, such as desks, printers and scanners, Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms. Most coworking spaces are physical places, but virtual coworking spaces are growing in popularity.
The Benefits of Coworking Spaces
Working from home comes with its benefits, but there are several reasons for why many freelancers choose to access coworking spaces instead. These spaces can:
- Improve motivation and productivity
- Reduce distractions
- Encourage collaboration and networking opportunities
- Offer access to professional equipment and facilities
- Provide a professional backdrop for video calls and meetings
- Set boundaries between work and home
- Minimize loneliness and isolation
Many coworking spaces offer affordable, flexible memberships, meaning you can choose when to use them and still maintain the freedom freelancers enjoy.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Coworking Space
With so many options out there, choosing the right coworking space for you can seem overwhelming. Here are our tips for what to consider when making your choice.
1. Type of Space
Different coworking spaces will offer different types of facilities. You might want a permanent desk that you can access at any time, or you might prefer having a more flexible, short-term arrangement. There are also industry-specific spaces that can provide resources for your line of work.
2. Location
Your coworking space needs to be somewhere you and your clients can get to easily. Keep in mind things like accessibility, public transport links, parking, and the immediate surroundings ‒ is the space right next to a noisy junction or right around the corner from your favorite cafe?
3. Budget
Make sure to include coworking space fees and commute costs in your freelance budget. Consider whether there are any unnecessary extras that might push up the price of coworking options (if you choose a space not too far from home, for example, you might not need to spend extra money for access to a kitchen).
4. Search Tools
If you’re struggling to find the best space for you, try using coworking search or comparison tools like Coworker and WeWork.
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