17/7/2020

Signing up for a coworking space could mean different things for different individuals. Some may prefer the productivity generated from working with like-minded, individuals. While another may like the opportunity to network and attend interesting workshops organised by their coworking provider. But how can you ensure that you are optimising all of the offered at your coworking space? Workthere has highlighted 5 simple hacks to make your investment at your coworking space worthwhile whether you are working as an individual or in a corporation.

1. Attend Networking Events

Being a member of a coworking space grants you access to some of the in-house events that are available for members only. This is an opportunity for you to interact and mingle with other users of your coworking centre as well as guest speakers.  Networking events include social mixers, workshops and product demonstrations. Usually there would be social events conducted in various centres especially amongst the bigger coworking providers such as JustCo and WeWork.

2. Connect with professionals in your area

A coworking space comprises of professionals from diverse industries. Whether is it fintech, financial services, creatives or logistics etc. It provides the space for startups, freelancers, digital nomads, and established firms to flourish and thrive with the exchange of ideas and network.

One of the most valuable resources is your community manager in the coworking space. They can be your go-to person if you are seeking to network and connect with other professionals. For instance, if you are a startup that wishes to outsource your accounting and administrative function, you could reach out to your community manager.

3. Try out different working spots in the coworking space

We are all unique individuals with different preference when it comes to working styles. Some individuals prefer their own privacy, working in their own corner. As such, a more personalised space such as a dedicated desk would be suitable choice for them. While there are some people who are exact opposites. Jumping around different corners of the coworking space, interacting and mingling with the other users in the space.

Therefore, it is important to experiment to determine what is a suitable vibe for you and decide on a space that you are comfortable working in.

4. Leverage on the meeting rooms

When you are deciding on a coworking space, it would be good to negotiate for some hours of free meeting room usage. Some coworking providers such as The Work Project and WorkCentral actually provide complimentary meeting hours for members.

5. Invest in the right equipment

Having an open-plan layout indeed spurs creativity and interaction amongst the different users of the coworking space. However, if you are somebody easily distracted by noise, it will be worthwhile to invest in a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. This would allow you to listen to your favourite music album as you process essential work assignments for the day. Additionally, you may want to consider investing in spare cable sets to charge your electronic devices such as your smart phones with a low battery life. Companies can invest in their own printers if they have extensive printing needs. This is a cost saving tip for firms using a private office since printing cost can vary from 5cents up to two dollars per page (Most flexible office space allows you to bring your own printers without charging an additional fee).

Now, you have discovered 5 hacks to make the most out of the coworking space. It is time to put these hacks into action. Attend networking events to expand your social circle, ask your community manager to introduce you to the coworking community, try out different working spots to decide on your comfortable working style, leverage on the meeting rooms, and lastly, invest in the right equipment to boost your productivity. These simple hacks would make your overall coworking experience worthwhile.