Robyn Roste, Systems & Funnels

Coworking Space or Shared Office Space, Which Is The Right Choice?

Remote work is one of those trends that isn’t going away. In fact, I daresay it’s NOT a trend and is, in fact, an awakening to a better work/life balance However, working remote doesn’t have to mean working from HOME. Sometimes having a coworking space or shared office is the right way to go, even if you’re a remote employee.

Coworking Space or Shared Office Space, Which Is The Right Choice?

Home office versus coworking space

If you’re a freelancer who has been home for two years straight (or more), then you may feel the need from time to time to venture out into the world and become socialized. At least a bit. Whether it’s a local coffee shop or a downtown office space, it’s nice to change things up every now and then.

Now, there are plenty of good reasons for having a physical office space outside of your home but for some people, running a virtual office will do the trick. It all depends on your needs.

If your home set up doesn’t give off professional vibes and you want your clients to see you as a professional, then you may benefit from giving coworkign a try.

Either shared office or coworking spaces provide you with a business address, a place to meet in person with clients, a professional atmosphere and social interactions you may not have when working from home.

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What is a coworking space?

A coworking space is a large, open area with desks lined up. Depending on the coworking space, the desks are either completely open or divided into partitions.

The first time I saw a coworking space I didn’t really get it. “So, like, everyone is working on their own thing and they all come to this space to do it? And they share a kitchen?”

Now that I’m a freelancer, I UNDERSTAND THE APPEAL. It’s not just that you’re sharing a space with other people who are working on different things, for different companies and industries. It’s more than that. Often, you’re working with people who are similarly wired and while you may not work together, you have things in common.

This is a rare and unexpected treat when you’re used to not fitting in and not being around people who “get” the entrepreneur thing.

By the way, coworking spaces are especially popular in the startup and artistic communities.

In general, these types of businesses benefit from open, collaborative, community settings and coworking spaces provide just that. Who else are you sure to find at a coworking office? Many times you’ll find collectives working together, such as marketers, writers, and graphic designers working on a client project together. You will also see start-ups collaborating to improve their investor pitches and grow their businesses.

While this type of workspace is great for working collaboratively, there are some drawbacks. They lack privacy and you have no control over who you share the space with.

What is a shared office space?

If you want or need more privacy then a shared office space may be the right choice for you.

This type of setting provides private rooms for individuals, located in a business centre. Other businesses can use the space, but they have their own private offices as well.

When you share office space, you share resources such as reception and administration staff, as well as things like photocopiers, printers, and utilities. They often have things like canteens and security provided by reputable companies, such as @ironhorsesecurity, giving you additional peace of mind.

Shared workspaces are ideal if you prefer working in an office environment with other businesses but also want the option of having a private, quiet space. This way, you can concentrate on your work, take meetings and make phone calls without any interruptions or distractions.

This type of setup is usually more expensive than becoming a member at a coworking space but will benefit you if this is what your business needs.

So, what do you think? Working from home is a wonderful, wonderful thing but sometimes you need to meet with a group or change your scenery.

Or you have to get out of there because *suddenly* every window in your home is being replaced. Just saying. These things happen.

Remote work is one of those trends that isn't going away. In fact, I daresay it's NOT a trend and is, in fact, an awakening to a better work/life balance However, working remote doesn't have to mean working from HOME. Sometimes having a coworking space or shared office is the right way to go, even if you're a remote employee.

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