How to Choose the Right Coworking Space for Your Work Needs

The rise of the remote and hybrid work models has fueled the freelance economy, which was already on a surge even before the pandemic years. As a result, the global gig economy has grown at an unprecedented rate, and more and more young professionals are embracing the flexible work lifestyle.

And, with an increasing number of workers discovering the benefits of freelancing (among other remote endeavors), a plethora of coworking spaces have taken root both in central business districts and in suburbs across North America. But, which ones are best suited for your needs?

The Right Coworking Space for You

Coworking spaces provide an ideal environment for focus and productivity that, in many ways, replicate the atmosphere of a traditional office space. It has even been documented that these spaces are now the biggest factor for success in the freelance economy. Accordingly, big operators have leveraged this need to propel their business model by creating elegant coworking spaces for freelancers and other types of remote or hybrid workers.

Notably, these spaces look to solve some of the biggest pitfalls that can affect freelancers, such as distractions and social isolation. And, by providing a venue outside of a home environment, coworking spaces help mitigate loneliness. Meanwhile, as flexible spaces, they’re available by the hour, which can also discourage procrastination. Clearly, finding a coworking space that fits your specific needs is the key to developing your career as a freelancer.

Here are the factors you should consider when choosing your ideal coworking space:

Location

Avoiding a long commute is one of the leading reasons people shift to freelancing or remote jobs. For this reason, choosing a coworking space should not emulate a commute to work, but rather complement your time and proximity goals.

To find one that best suits your needs, try a search and booking platform for coworking spaces and narrow your search based on location, whether that’s close to home or any other place of interest. To that end, although choosing a space near you might sound great, you may want to consider other aspects that tie in with your life. Specifically, factors like the nearest gyms, good lunch spots and potential places to create business networks should also be part of your consideration.

Cost-Effectiveness

A key benefit of freelancing is the reduction in transportation costs and other office-related expenditures. So, after considering the location and type of environment you want, weigh the cost of the coworking space. For instance, sometimes it’s better to spend extra for amenities that can save you money in the long run. This could be the internet speed, printers/scanners, access to meeting rooms or even the free coffee. This way, you can find a coworking space that you can use for a long period of time.

Of course, with so many options out there, it might be challenging to set your mind on just one coworking space. But, the great news is that you can try a few before settling on a permanent space as most coworking operators offer flexible daily or weekly subscriptions. After all, it’s where you’ll be developing your freelance career, so it should be a fitting choice.

Work Environment

Choosing a coworking space also means deciding on your work environment, and the atmosphere of where you work directly affects your focus and productivity as a freelancer. Therefore, freelancers should try to avoid cafes as they’re often too loud and not conducive to work, which will cause you to get distracted. Instead, the need for quiet places with good internet is one of the reasons why coworking spaces are becoming more popular with freelancers.

So, when visiting the space for the first time, consider how quiet or noisy it is. While you’re there, also check for quiet areas, like huddle rooms, private offices and even outdoor areas where you can benefit from a strong Wi-Fi connection. Moreover, try to assess the amenities that are included in the membership to determine how important they are to you on a daily basis.

Community

Starting out in a coworking space where you don’t know anyone can initially feel isolating, especially when working as a freelancer. But, it also creates a valuable opportunity to expand your network beyond your usual circles. While it’s important to respect others’ need for focus, taking moments to engage socially can provide a refreshing break between tasks and meetings.

With that in mind, look for the chance to connect with fellow members and staff. In particular, check the events and activities offered by the coworking space: Many try to engage their community through interactive workshops, conferences and even occasional parties. The essence of coworking lies in community and hospitality, so don’t overlook these aspects. You might even discover new collaborators, clients, and friends to enrich both your professional and personal life.

Finding the right coworking space as a freelancer involves assessing your specific needs — such as location, amenities and community vibe — to ensure the space aligns with your work style and goals. Then, by carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a space that not only boosts your productivity, but also enhances your professional network and overall work satisfaction.