Pure business, no fetters at your local shared space
If you dream of busing into the office, or cycling – perhaps you’d like to run – then a coworking space near you may be the way to go, particularly if it has end-of-journey facilities. Here are some tips to help you choose a coworking space that suits your business and your lifestyle.
Coworking spaces: What to look for and where
Coworking spaces, also called shared spaces, appear to be all the rage in Auckland at the moment. It was up and coming before the pandemic, but lately, the concept seems to have found some serious legs – but, like people, no two are the same.
What should you look for in a coworking space?
Amenities
Every coworking space is different, but their best will provide everything you need to work comfortably and efficiently. Of course, the basics have to be there—restrooms, plenty of space, as well as much needed office equipment such as photocopiers, stationery, and sturdy desks.
However, you must also consider the creature comforts. What’s the coffee like? Is there air conditioning for the hot months and good insulation for when it’s cold? The more comfortable you and your team are, the better your performance. Also, consider how regularly the space is cleaned – now more than ever, tip-top hygiene is essential.
Parking and public transport hubs
It’s important to check whether a coworking space has ample parking, both within the facility and publicly around it. Ideally, a coworking space will have parking and a little extra for visitors and the periods of change as workers “clock out” and others “clock in”.
What if you don’t own a vehicle? It’s equally important to ensure your potential coworking space is close to public transport – The Crate Flexible Office Space in Rosedale, for example, is on the main Constellation Drive bus route and five minutes walk from the Constellation bus station. You may like the idea of cycling into the office, in which case you need a space that has a place to keep your bicycle secure.
On main routes
Check whether the coworking space is on central cycling and running routes. If you like to stay active, you can get your workout on the way to work. If the coworking space is centrally located, this should be a given, but you’ll need to make sure if it’s a little out of the way.
That said, the coworking space must have showering facilities. No point working up a sweat if you can’t freshen up afterwards. Neither you nor your coworkers will want to be in a coworking space that smells like a gym locker room.
Surrounding Businesses
The final thing to consider is the area surrounding the space. In short, where is it? No one wants to be stuck in an industrial park in the middle of nowhere. Depending on your line of work, it may affect where you want to be.
What specialist services do you need to be a short distance away? What about good lunch options? For example, the Crate Flexible Office Space on Auckland’s North Shore is close to Mexicali Fresh, McDonald’s, Burger King, sushi spots, cafes, gyms and more.
Final Word
There’s a lot to consider, including location, location, location. Where your chosen coworking space is located is as important as what it offers.
