Today I’m happily working from the comfort of the Parliament Co-Working space in Hobart. After spending a little too much time at home, one of my aims for 2013 is to get out of the house more – and co-working spaces are a great place to start!
For a small cost per month or per visit, you can share resources with a number of other self-employed (or employed with flexible work arrangements) people in your area.
There are a number of things you need to consider before you jump in to your nearest co-working centre. Things like:
How much does it cost?
You need to make sure it fits your budget!
How convenient is it for you to access?
Much like a gym membership, you’re more likely to use your co-working space if it’s convenient for you to get there. Is it a short trip around the corner, or a two-bus-trip-and-a-tram-ride in?
Do they have after-hours options?
It’s likely you don’t work a standard 9am – 5pm, so it’s good to know what times they are open so you can be sure your work schedule fits in!
Do they provide an ongoing ‘membership’, or just short term access?
Some co-working spaces provide an ongoing ‘lease’ of a desk space, others ‘hot desk’ (charge by the say or half day). Some provide both options! It’s good to check out each option and pick the one most economical and useful for you.
What does the membership cost include — are there any extra or hidden charges?
As a standard, you would expect most memberships to include: internet (wireless and wired), a desk, a chair (or seat of some description!), electricity, rates and a small kitchen area. Some offer more, some less. There may be some added bonuses, as well: for instance the Parliament Co-Working space offers very cheap printing and copying from their dedicated printer, as well as access to 3 different meeting rooms.
How do their shared or ‘hot’ desks work?
If it’s first in best-dressed, you’ll want to know what time it starts to fill up! Or, if you need to book in advance, it’ll be a good idea to know where to find the calendar!
How much privacy will you have?
If you take a call, will everyone hear you? Who will be able to view your screen when you’re working? How busy is the area?
What’s the culture like?
Does it inspire you? Can you see yourself working alongside the other members? Or do you feel uncomfortable, and would prefer to stay home? It’s important to work in a space where you feel relaxed and inspired!
Can you test drive it?
A lot of co-working spaces will offer a one-day trial where you can set yourself up and get a feel for the room. This is a great time for you to make sure the space ticks all your boxes… even the little things, like if the local cafe is any good!
Rather than re-create the wheel, I’m going to point you in the direction of The Fetch’s list of Australian Co-Working spaces.
I didn’t even know it, but today there’s a co-working conference happening in Melbourne today! I’ve been following the hastag #CCA13 and these are two of my favourite tweets so far:
What do you think? Do you co-work? Or do you prefer your the comfort of home? Or maybe you’d just like to stick with your team in the office? Let us know in the comments section!
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