One of the great things about having a home office is that, well, you have a home office. But does that mean you can’t go to a coworking space?
The reality is that a coworking space can actually be a good way to advance your business or career when you work from home. Here are some of the reasons that heading to a coworking space can make sense:
Change of Scene
Sometimes you need a change of scene. I don’t have access to a coworking space where I am, but sometimes I get more done when I head to a coffee shop to work.
The change of scene invigorates me. It gets me out of my rut and encourages a little creativity. It’s a great way to change things up a bit and give yourself a shot in the arm.
Surrounded by Other Workers
Another advantage to visiting a coworking space is that you are surrounded by other workers. Sometimes, when you work from home, you end up trying to keep yourself motivated. It’s easy to make excuses to go to the kitchen for food. Or to go take a nap. Maybe mindlessly scroll through Facebook.
Heading out to where you can be surrounded by other ambitious and motivated workers can provide you with a little extra motivation yourself. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people is huge when it comes to success. Head to a coworking space a couple times a week to find that.
Networking Opportunities
Coworking spaces offer networking opportunities. While you don’t want to neglect your work in the name of networking, it’s not a bad idea to do a little networking a couple times a month.
You never know when someone you meet while at the space could be a good partner. It’s a good way to form partnerships, and even to make the most of your work. Don’t neglect the people you meet at a coworking space.
Meeting Space
If you’re a freelancer working on your own, or if you are a remote worker, your home office makes a lot of sense. You don’t have to worry too much about meeting space. But if you are a more traditional startup, or if you are hoping to expand your home business, you might need meeting space. Coworking facilities can provide that.
Some coworking spaces offer conference rooms that can provide you with an area to project professionalism. Additionally, your team can meet together to get work done if you are expanding your business. You might not want them to meet at your home, so it can be a good way to meet up a couple times a week.
Make Sure to Pay Attention to Cost
If you decide to use a coworking space, it makes sense to pay attention to cost. A small cost can be worth it to access what you need — even if you increase your expenses over working from a home office. Remember that you can usually deduct your coworking costs on your taxes so that it is a little more cost efficient.
Weigh the pros and cons of spending some time in a coworking space. Even with the added expense, it might be worth it to receive the benefits.
