If you’ve never used a coworking office space before, then it’s only understandable to be feeling a little dubious about whether or not this concept is right for you. Making the change from your current work setup to a coworking space can seem like a big move, but it’s also one that has enabled so many businesses, both big and small, to experience new heights of success.
So, let’s get right down to it. Is a coworking office space a good idea for your business? Circle Hub is here to help you make the right decision.
What is a Coworking Office Space?
Take a look at various coworking office spaces and you’ll likely notice quite a few differences between them, whether in terms of layout, setup, or anything else. However, they all share the same concept; they provide an office space that can be used by anyone who needs it. You simply bring the device that you need, grab a desk, and get to work, while also being able to make use of the amenities provided by that coworking space.
When the concept first began, coworking spaces were primarily used by people who were self-employed. However, times have changed, especially since the pandemic. Now, even larger companies are seeing the many benefits that coworking spaces can bring, with more and more businesses seeking out this type of setup for their employees.
The Benefits of a Coworking Office Space
The benefits of a coworking office space can vary depending on the space you choose, since each coworking company will offer up something a little different. However, here are the main advantages that you can expect to experience:
Complete Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits offered by a coworking office space is flexibility. Most coworking companies will offer a variety of different office spaces for people to choose from, meaning that you can pick whichever one best suits the project that you’re working on.
For example, if you only need to use a coworking office space for a few hours a day and you enjoy the buzz that comes from being surrounded by other people, then Circle Hub’s Hot Spots would be perfect for you. Here, you can simply drop in whenever you like, pick a free desk, and do what you need to do. There’s no long-term commitment involved, giving you the ultimate in flexibility.
On the other hand, if you’re a little choosier about where you work, you could opt for a Designated Desk instead. This allows you to book a specific desk for yourself in advance. However, again, there aren’t any long-term commitments. You can book your desk for as long as you need, be it a day, a week, or a month. This way, you’re guaranteed your favorite desk at your preferred working time.
Of course, while one of the draws of a coworking office space may be the diverse array of people and talent that you’ll be surrounded by, some projects require a little privacy. We try to cater to everyone at Circle Hub, which is why we also offer private office spaces. Once again, you won’t need to commit to anything long-term. As we said, coworking is all about flexibility! Instead, you can simply book the office space that best suits your project (we have various sizes to choose from) and make the most of all that it provides.
New Networking and Collaboration Opportunities
Many people really struggle with networking. Whether this is because of how closed-off your traditional office space is or because you’re a freelancer that usually works on your own, having to make time to network can add even more pressure to your already-packed day.
This is where coworking office spaces really shine. They attract people from all industries, meaning that you never know who you’ll end up meeting on any given day.
Even better, go with Circle Hub’s Hot Spots and you’ll be working in relatively close proximity to all of these exciting new people. This makes it so easy to strike up a light and casual conversation with those around you. It’s networking at its finest!
Of course, while informal networking is always a positive, official networking events can be extremely advantageous too. Attend one of those and you’ll know that everyone else is also there with the same purpose in mind.
That’s why, at Circle Hub, you’ll find a variety of both professional and social events that you can attend. Whether you want to chat over a freshly-squeezed beverage at our weekly Juice Bar or meet new people while chowing down on a free breakfast, take your pick from our action-packed events calendar.
Access to a Range of Amenities
Just about every business will need certain amenities in order to run efficiently. Whether it’s as simple as high-speed WiFi or something larger, like a conference room, the many different amenities provided by a good coworking office space could make your life so much easier.
Take Circle Hub, for example. In addition to our high-speed WiFi, we also offer state-of-the-art printing facilities. Our cleaning services ensure that good hygiene is maintained, while our conference rooms are ideal if you ever need to hold a team meeting.
Our Ventura location is home to an event space too. With enough room for up to 170 guests, this space is ideal for everything from corporate events to social gatherings. We’ll even throw in access to our kitchen, along with an event coordinator, to make sure that everything goes smoothly.
Another amenity that sets Circle Hub apart from the crowd is our production spaces. We have indoor studios of varying sizes. Each one boasts plenty of gorgeous natural lighting, along with a few unique styling touches to ensure that your content stands out. If you need to put together a larger production, we can also give you access to an outdoor production space.
Cost-Efficiency
Let’s be real – running a business can be very expensive. Managing costs is usually extremely stressful when a business first launches. At the startup stage, it can sometimes feel as though you’re bleeding money by simply trying to purchase everything you need to get going.
If you can relate, then a coworking office space could be exactly what you need to help you cut costs.
For starters, you won’t need to worry about rent and other overheads. Energy bills for your business will be a thing of the past – your coworking space will take care of that! The same applies to maintenance and property repairs. You’ll no longer need to concern yourself with any of these things.
Having access to all of the amenities we mentioned above, from high-speed WiFi to cleaning services to kitchen access, is also a huge bonus. You won’t need to spend extra money you don’t have popping out to an expensive cafe to buy your lunch or a few snacks each day. At Circle Hub, we provide complimentary refreshments. After all, every little saving helps! It’ll mean that you’ll be in a better financial state to invest in the parts of your business that really need a push.
An Increase in Productivity and Creativity
Some people believe that moving to a coworking office space will lead to a drop in productivity. However, the opposite is actually true…
Research shows that 84% of people feel extremely engaged and motivated when in a coworking space. After all, when you’re in a fast-paced environment and you’re surrounded by other people who are being extremely productive, then this vibe will rub off on you too.
This can’t be said of a dingy, traditional office space. After all, the 9-5 grind doesn’t suit everyone. The fact that some coworking spaces offer 24/7 access helps with productivity too. If you’re an early bird or a night owl, you’ll be able to work hours that best suit your style.
If you currently work from home, then you’ll be all too familiar with the many distractions that you face on a daily basis. Again, moving to a coworking space will do away with these. As you can imagine, this will lead to a huge boost in productivity and creativity.
Less Loneliness Thanks to a Sense of Community
If you currently work on your own from home, then you’ll be very familiar with how isolating this can be. Sure, it does come with some advantages too, but, for many people, that sense of isolation can quickly turn to loneliness. It doesn’t take long for this to start affecting performance.
This is another reason why a coworking office space is a great idea. Coworking spaces foster a sense of community. Even if you walk into one without knowing anyone at all, it’s easy enough to strike up a conversation at the water cooler or the common area, or even at our on-site gym.
Simply being able to interact with other people while you’re taking a break can do wonders for your motivation and self-esteem. You’ll end up feeling much more confident, which will shine through in your work.
The Downsides of a Coworking Office Space
We’ve covered some of the many benefits that a coworking office space can bring. However, what about the downsides?
One of the issues that people have with some coworking spaces is a lack of privacy. This is especially concerning for those who deal with sensitive data or confidential information. That’s why, at Circle Hub, we offer a variety of coworking office spaces. If you know that you need some extra privacy, it’s easy enough to book yourself one of our enclosed office spaces for however long you need.
This also addresses the issue that some people have with noise and distractions. However, at Circle Hub, we not only maintain an atmosphere that’s conducive to productivity, but we also have plenty of super quiet spaces that you can work in if you need a distraction-free environment.
So, while there may be various downsides to coworking, these all depend on the coworking office space that you choose. The best way to decipher whether or not a space would benefit you would be to book a tour to check things out for yourself.
Would a Coworking Office Space be a Good Idea for Your Business?
While a coworking office space isn’t the answer for everyone, more and more people are finding themselves drawn to the many benefits that coworking can have. From total flexibility in terms of working hours to exciting networking opportunities to free access to a variety of amenities, most people who make the move to a coworking space only have one regret; that they didn’t do it sooner!
Still on the fence about whether or not a coworking office space would be right for you? Click here to get in touch with us to find out more or to book yourself in for a tour.