Due to the recession, there have been many offices across the world left empty and renting a large office is unsuitable to a small home business.
This is where Coworking can be your saving grace.
What is Coworking?
Coworking was a term coined in 2005 by Brad Neuberg who opened up Spiral Muse in San Francisco. Brad Neuberg wanted two things, and that was to have the freedom and independence of working for himself with the structure and community of working with others.
Coworking spaces make it possible for small businesses to have an office, but not the worry about long-term leases or sky high rent. Most Coworking spaces allow you to rent a permanent desk or come in whenever you like. There are plenty of plans available and you can choose one to suit you.
Why does it work?
The reason Coworking spaces work so well is because costs of the office space are shared between the users. Not only will the business be spending a lot less, but it will also have the benefit of having an office in which to run the business.
Networking goes without saying in a Coworking space, especially in the kitchen! You can meet many like-minded individuals who can not only advise you, but also collaborate and help you grow your business.
What’s included in the price?
The price of a Coworking space usually includes a professional mailing address, use of internet and kitchen utilities, however some places offer free tea and coffee, free snacks and events. It all depends on the individual Coworking space and you’ll need to check their website for more information first.
Events? What kind of events?
We are naturally social creatures so being in an office where nobody talks to each other can leave some feeling awkward and out of place. There are many kinds of events that can be held at Coworking spaces but most are team-building or social. Here at Fruitworks we hold social events for our members, including Feast Fridays where we tour Canterbury’s top dining experiences each week. It’s awesome getting people involved and talking to each other. Other events include business events that will help you improve and grow your business.
Will I fit in?
Of course you will! At a Coworking space, usually there are a mix of freelancers, start-ups, writers, students, non-profits, musicians, architects, web design agencies, marketers… The list goes on! Anybody can work in a Coworking space. If you’re curious, most Coworking spaces have a website with a list of members so you can get an idea of who you are working with. Pop into your local Coworking space and have a chat, get to know the people who run the space, that’s the way to be sure.
What if I travel or I’m part time?
If you’re working for your business part-time, or only need an office for a couple of days a month, many Coworking spaces offer hot desking. Hot desking is a form of Coworking, however you have no residential space and the area is shared with other co-workers. This may sound daunting, but there are so many different people you could sit next to and spark up an interesting conversation with.
What if I have meetings with clients?
If you ever have client meetings, it’s not professional to have them visit your home and a Coworking space gives you a relaxed business setting. Many Coworking spaces offer meeting rooms for hire and prices can start at just £10 per hour. Spending £10 to bring your clients to a meeting room rather than a living room can make a huge impact on the first impression you give.
A Coworking space can also help your business grow and thrive. If you’re considering getting office space for your business then have a look at the Coworking spaces on offer near you. You never know who you might meet!
