Coworking Spaces // 6 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Finding One

Coworking Spaces // 6 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Finding One

Since inception, numerous coworking spaces have popped up across the continent and in Kenya.

This, in return, has greatly developed the local business ecosystem. However, an array of options have also left the customers confused.

The result: many customers are ending up selecting coworking spaces that aren’t ideal for them.

With a lot of available options, customers can’t afford to visit every coworking office nor do they have the time to conduct such a wide research. 

Hence, information is often gathered through websites, social media, and calls. There are some basic factors you should carefully inspect while searching for a coworking space. 

For the sake of your success and even the work itself, the lack of these things signifies a red flag.

Here are six strong coworking space commandments that you really should pay attention to in your search:

Making Price Your Only Consideration

When you’re looking for a coworking space, it’s easy to find the cheapest possible option and go for it. But this is a mistake.

Why? Because there are so many more factors to consider, such as location, building quality, furnishings, the types of amenities the space offers, the level of service you’ll receive, the staff, the perks and even the types of members who use the space.

You may pay a bit more for a better space, but it’ll be well worth the added expense in the long run.

Prioritizing Private Space Over Common Space

There’s no question that private space is important. But just the same way that it’s important to understand who a space’s members are, it’s also important that there’s ample common space where you can interact with fellow members.

This can be things like cafeterias and kitchens and break rooms.

Whether you need to simply step away from your desk for a minute, blow off some steam, unwind, or socialize, these areas will help make your day more enjoyable and even make it easier to network and build connections. 

Also Read : Coworking Spaces // Helping Businesses Move to the Next Level of Convenience

Common areas vary greatly across different coworking locations. For example, at Nairobi Garage, we have a spacious reception, a huge café space, multiple conference rooms, event space, training room, prayer areas, and even skype booths.

These amenities might seem irrelevant at first, but they are definitely a necessity for a business to succeed in the long run.

Sacrificing Convenience

One of the reasons many people love working at a flexible office space is the convenience factor. It should make your life easier in every way.

Whether this means being close to home, being close to major freeways, or being close to things like restaurants, shops, and fitness centers, it’s important to understand what your personal convenience factor is.

Also check for added advantages and perks that  help build an atmosphere that works well. Multiple parameters make it easy for different people to find a location, make sure you find what makes it easier for you, this is something you would be pleased to have taken into account.

Then, make sure the coworking space you select offers up the convenience you’re looking for. 

Signing Up at an Inflexible Workspace

The reality of business is that unexpected changes are common, whether for the better or worse.

For instance, your business may grow and you could need to scale up with new staff. Or, your business could slow down temporarily and you may need to reduce the amount of office space you have. 

Whatever the case may be, it’s important to find a coworking space that’s willing to be flexible with you.

Ask about power back-ups and internet downtimes

Any space operator you call will assure you that they provide power backup. But did you know the term ‘providing power backups’ has different meanings to it?

For instance, coworking spaces that charge less only provide a UPS backup that will keep your internet, laptops, and some lights powered. Mid to high budget spaces on the other hand, provide air-conditioning and power backup.

You also need to ask the operators about the reliability of the power backup and the number of power backup tiers. 

For example at Nairobi Garage locations, we have a power backup system, with UPS, generators, and backup generators. We have preventive maintenance contracts in place for all tiers to avoid unexpected outages.

In terms of the internet, the fast and reliable internet is one of the most critical factors while you select any coworking space. 

Most of the work you do in a remote working model needs the use of the internet as you do all research and share all reports using it. 

Therefore, you should have an incredibly strong internet connection at par with the best while finding a decent coworking space. Our network is managed and includes IT support. 150Mb/s speeds + backup line.

Reviews on the GoogleMyBusiness listing of the operator can provide you critical information about these aspects. If a space operator has some red flags, those will be highlighted in the reviews.

Several coworking spaces are designed to cater to all unique business needs. Therefore, while you think about how to choose a coworking space, you need to understand whether the atmosphere is ideal for your company. 

The numerous businesses you will work with need to be considered, as competition should not be present in close proximity.

While the above commandments are for people to fulfill their search for a perfect coworking space, you should always pick a trusted coworking space provider.