I’ve been meaning to write this post for ages, ever since I started attending a co-working space on a more regular basis actually. I’ve used them sporadically since I started my biz journey 3 years ago. With a little nudge from my parents I decided to sign up to one in Sheffield last April and I’ve never regretted that decision. In fact, I wish I’d done it sooner.
I think being part of a co-working space is something that most people who work from home should try. If you only work from home once or twice a week then you might not be as interested in the idea, but if you’re working from your home office on a regular basis then this post is for you.
I hear a lot of my blogging friends saying that they get lonely working from home. If you’re blogging full time then your blog is your biz. Be proud of it and treat it like one. As nice as it can be to work from home it’s also very important to get out and be around other people. I love working from home, especially when I have a lot of photography to do but having a flexible co-working space means I can dedicate a few days to working alongside others. I love being able to change up my surrounding, I find it helps to inspire me in different aspects of my work.
Today I want to share a few reasons why I think you, as a self-employed/freelancer/blogger/vlogger should be using a co-working space.
– Fresh air: Get out of the house and enjoy the fresh air. The walk to work or even the bus journey can give you some quiet time to yourself.
– People – Meet and talk to like-minded people and also have the opportunity to expand your social and work bubble.
– New ideas – It’s good to have someone to chat to and bounce ideas off, even if it’s just while you’re making a cup of coffee.
– Networking – There’s the potential to find new clients and to have others on hand to help you out. Networking is always a good idea.
– Positive environment – Everyone is usually working around you and that’s the best encouragement to get your head down and focus.
– Community – You can take a break and there’s always someone to chat to. Co-working spaces often run different events and socials at lunch time.
– Save money – I love to work from a coffee shops but unless it’s a bigger chain it can be a little awkward sitting there with your laptop. There’s only so much you can spend on coffee and snacks before you’re just hogging a table.
– Meeting room – Many spaces have meeting rooms which you can book for free. This helps to give a more professional appearance to you business and allows you to host workshops etc.
– Clear work and relaxation divide – Some people really benefit from having a dedicated space to do their work and a space to relax. If you want to switch off in the evening then having a space to work outside of your home is the best way to achieve it.
I highly recommend both Union St and Rocco in Sheffield and if you’re down in Cambridge then check out the Cambridge Business Lounge.
Do you work from a co-working space, let me know in the comment section below. I’d also be happy to answer any questions you have about co-working.