Coworking spaces have many advantages for freelancers, entrepreneurs, small businesses owners, large corporations, and anyone that needs a work space to accomplish projects. They are cost efficient, flexible, secure, and clean. It is a space where productivity and community go hand-in-hand. Here are our top 3 ways to keep that motivation and get the job done within a coworking space.

Choose Your Space Wisely

Common Area versus Office Space

Common areas in coworking spaces typically don’t have assigned seating, so there’s some flexibility. The downside is that common areas can have distractions, but they are less expensive and can be rented by the hour. Offices can be rented monthly if more privacy is desired and the space is used frequently. Small business owners and large corporations with overflow can both utilize private offices. It will save more money when compared to renting an entire office space with room that may not be needed, especially if there are long term contracts. Some coworking spaces allow you to securely store items in the offices, such as paperwork or desk items. Not having to lug everything to the coworking space every time is more efficient and can save time and energy. The frequency, cost and required space needed will help you determine what is best for you.

Utilizing Your Space

A change of scenery can also help with productivity. Sitting in one spot for too long can stifle creativity and make you sore and grumpy. Choose different chairs, tables, or work spaces to keep the environment fresh and your productivity flowing. This is easier to accomplish in a shared environment.

The area in which the coworking space is located matters too. Look for a safe area where you can step outside for fresh air and regroup. Long days also require coffee and food, so check out what restaurants and other amenities are nearby before committing to a space.

Get The Right Tools

Laptop? Check. Pens and paper? Check. Now what? The right work tools can keep you prepared and efficient. Invest in items that will help you long term. You’ll need necessity, but also check out an office supply store and pick out a few things that excite you. Fun colors or a new set of pens can be motivating for a small price. Here are some suggestions:

- New laptop battery if the current one no longer holds a good charge

- Extra phone charger

- Laptop bag with lots of pockets

- Supplies (pretend you’re an unsupervised kid in a candy store with $100, but you’re an adult and the store is Staples or Office Max).

- A calendar or notebook to keep you on track (make a schedule or to-do list every day)

- Noise canceling headphones (Bluetooth optional)

Get the most out of your coworking space by utilizing the people around you.

Set Yourself Up For Success

Start Out Strong

Find a time that works for you. Coworking spaces often have flexible hours. Morning birds, night owls, entrepreneurial parents, and those with the post-9 to 5 side hustle can have space available when they need it. Find the best time for you and stick to it. Don’t try to force a time that you are not comfortable with.

Work With Your Peers

One of the benefits of a coworking space is the others around you. Meeting new, like-minded people can help boost your outlook and solve common problems. It can allow you to learn new ways to improve your business or project. It also gives you the opportunity to help others that may be struggling in an area where you excel. One thing to remember is to “read the room”. Not everyone is looking for tips or wants a third party in their conversation.

One of the best resources is the coworking space’s manager. They are able to let you know who in the coworking space would be able and willing to help with a problem. They are often knowledgable of the community around them and can recommend an outside party that may have expertise, if needed.

Written by Raleigh In and Out

Top 3 Ways to Make the Most of a Coworking Space