With the growth of remote work and flexible working arrangements, renting a shared office space is growing in popularity for all sorts of businesses and industries. Whether you are a freelancer, growing startup, or international conglomerate, there are certainly benefits to co-working offices.
On the flip side, there will be some cons to consider as well. So before you hurriedly commit to the nearest flexible working space, here are some things you need to keep in mind.
Vital Considerations To Have For a Shared Office Space
Depending on the type of business you are running, the number of employees you have, and an assortment of factors, a shared office space will need to fulfill some criteria for it to work.
Office Space and Facilities
This is perhaps the most crucial aspect to get right. Businesses need to keep both the present and the future in mind. You need a space that can accommodate all your employees now and potentially have room for realistic growth. Renting a smaller office to save money might make sense now, but you could be impeding productivity and growth.
Ensure that your shared office space has a good layout for your current setup, with enough desks, storage, sockets, and all the features you need to get up and running. Most shared office spaces offer a certain degree of flexibility regarding layout, so do your research beforehand.
Serviced Convenience
When you consider which shared office space to rent, ensure that it offers the services and facilities your business needs. As part of the lease agreement, tenants are offered a range of services and facilities to utilize. This can include office furniture, high-speed Wi-Fi, kitchen and pantry facilities, lounge areas, and storage. You can also count security, concierge, and reception services as part of the deal.
This allows businesses to focus on what they do best, with the landlord picking up all these additional facilities and responsibilities. With less of a financial and logistical burden, you can forge ahead with peace of mind.
Working Hours
Check the allowed working hours and don’t assume that you can use the office anytime you want. If your business involves irregular office hours, you’d need a shared office that allows 24-hour access. Take note that some shared offices give you your own set of keys while some don’t, which means you’d have to pay attention to when you’re allowed access to the office.
Parking Space
The availability of parking spaces might be essential for your business. Besides you and your employees who might need it, your clients who have to meet you at your office will appreciate the easy parking access too. Check in with the management about special rates or arrangements to get the best deal for your lease.
Transparent Pricing
Last but not least, the more you know, the better it will be when it comes to your leasing agreements. Hidden costs can be quite a killer for your business finances, and you do not want the unnecessary shock of additional fees or costs. Utilities may not be included, while the use of conference rooms may incur additional fees as well. It is in your best interests to iron out all the details before signing any agreement.
Conclusion
Finding the right place to run your business comes with a lot of considerations and challenges. However, doing your research and comparing options will help you find the arrangement that benefits you the most. Have a clear idea of what matters most for your business and find the best workplace solution that meets your needs.