Is coworking space worth it? Yay or Nay?
Coworking spaces are great if you want to network with other professionals, exchange ideas, and even find business partners. However, do they live up to the hype? In this article, we'll discuss whether coworking spaces are worth it or not and help you decide if they are suitable for you or not based on your particular needs and goals.
The Pros
A coworking space can offer several benefits over working from home or a traditional office if you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or remote worker. For one, you'll be around other people who can help create a sense of community and collaboration. And because coworking spaces are usually equipped with high-speed internet and other office amenities, you can avoid the hassle and expense of setting up your own home office. In addition, many coworking spaces offer events and networking opportunities to help you meet new people and grow your business. You may also have access to equipment like printers, scanners, and projectors to use as needed. Many coworking spaces like those found in WeWorks are beautifully furnished with expensive furniture, art, and fixtures that can further inspire your creative mind and create a professional look and feel when clients, friends, and family visit your space. Finally, coworking spaces make running errands more manageable by providing showers, food options, phone booths for calls, and more. But if you need reliable wifi, fast computers, and a work environment that fosters creativity and productivity—as well as social interaction—a membership might be worth it!
The Cons
There are some cons to using coworking spaces. A downside is the cost; WeWork, for example, charges several hundred to several thousand dollars per month in certain regions for different kinds of office setups. You will likely have to pay a monthly fee to use the space, which can add up. Additionally, you may have to pay for extras like printing or coffee. Second, you may not have as much privacy as you would if you were working from home or in a traditional office. Third, the noise level can be higher in coworking spaces, making concentrating difficult. Fourth, there may be more distractions in a coworking space, such as people chatting, music playing, or even ping pong and community events. Fifth, you may have to share equipment with others, which can be frustrating if you're trying to get work done and someone is using the printer or computer you need.
Final Thoughts
As an entrepreneur, I'm always looking for ways to optimize my work-life balance and be as productive as possible. I've tried working from home, coffee shops, and even WeWork. I think coworking spaces are great overall for the positive inspiration a community of like-minded people can provide. However, they can be pretty costly if you're not careful. Research and weigh the pros and cons before signing up for a membership!