The spaces of coworking They have established themselves as the preferred option for many SMEs, large companies and freelancers to carry out their work activities. Nowadays, there are plenty of flexible spaces, but finding the ideal place that adapts to the specific needs of companies and employees requires hard research work where mistakes can sometimes be made.
In this sense, Cloudworks, a coworking company founded in 2015 in Barcelona, has prepared a list of the most common mistakes that those looking for a coworking space should avoid:
- Forget about the services that are included in the price of the plan. It is important to check which services are included in the price or which have an additional cost. Focusing solely on renting the space without considering services such as parcel reception, 24/7 access to the space, unlimited kitchen supplies, or access to discounts on other services such as gyms or training is a mistake.
- Underestimating the design of spaces. Having quality ergonomic furniture, well-equipped common spaces and enough meeting rooms are fundamental aspects when choosing a coworking. The interior design will encourage the team to work inspired and achieve positive results, which will increase the value of the brand or company. Likewise, the design of the flexible spaces encourages creativity and teamwork.
- Underestimating the fit in terms of company culture. When choosing a coworking space, Cloudworks recommends keeping in mind that its values and work style are similar to those of your company. In the same way, considering aspects such as the environment and the possibilities of networking depending on the sector or the diversity of sectors that work within the space, are requirements to assess, and that sometimes go unnoticed.
- Flexibility of the contract and conditions. Choosing coworking spaces implies having flexible agreements that allow you to plan and adapt when necessary. In addition, the possibility of growth within the space should be assessed, if they offer offices with a hybrid layout, have scaled payment plans, maximize the use of space and, finally, pay for what is actually used.
- Leave aside the additional services offered by the operator. In some coworking spaces, small reforms can be carried out and they facilitate the personalization of the spaces used by the company. They also offer a catalog of additional supplies and installations of blackboards, TV, specific furniture, nearby parking or telephone booths.
- Undervalue the location. If these flexible spaces are characterized by something, it is by their location. They are generally located in central areas and easily accessible by public transport, which motivates workers to go to the office. Marta Gracia, CEO of Cloudworks, recalls that «It is important to strategically choose the place according to the business sector. For this, it is important to know where both customers and suppliers are located».
