Creating a co-working space can be a challenge. While all this is needed may be a good chair, a lap desk, and a secure internet connection, the folks who work in these spaces are generally quite independent and often very creative. To keep your clients happy and returning when they are in the area, consider the ideas below to create a co-working space that will draw in clients.
Make it Visually Engaging
If there are windows that offer a good view, highlight them. If you have windows that only let in light, consider adding a light filtering film to the window that will hold interest but not create distractions.
Find ways to reflect light throughout the space. Adding custom metal prints with a high polish, for example, can offer visual interest of several levels. The combination of
- sheen
- colors
- the featured image
properly lit, can give the workers in your space a place to take a brain break and enjoy the view around them.
Include a Variety of Light Levels
Some folks focus best in the dark, so offering a spot that has low light may draw in some clients. Other people need light for energy, so make sure you have a chair by a window.
If your co-working space is located in a part of the country that has high heat or extreme cold, discuss your power needs with local utility companies. You may be able to lock in a budget rate or get other breaks as you are providing a service to your community by offering options to contract workers, the self-employed, and those who can’t work from home.
Provide Plenty of Outlets
Speaking of electricity, make sure you allow for plenty of access plugs and charging spots. If your clientele is tethering or providing their own hot spots, they will need to be able to keep their gear charged while they work.
Be ready to keep an eye out for power vampires as well. Keeping a phone charged is one thing, charging power bricks for use at home is something else. Your responsibilities include offering a working space, not water and power for daily living.
Keep the Kitchen Stocked
If you offer a shared kitchen, keep it stocked with the basics. You’ll probably need a microwave and a small refrigerator. Post a note about leftovers and keep a pen handy so folks can mark their takeout containers with a date. Let your cleaning staff know that anything without a date in the refrigerator is eligible for tossing. Hold fast to this rule before your refrigerator becomes a petri dish.
Consider also adding a filtered water dispenser along with an ice machine. Hire a vending machine company to manage the snacks and single-serving beverages. If you want to bring in a single serving coffee pot, encourage your clients to bring in their own pods to keep things organized. Finally, consider adding a hot water dispenser to your sink for those who want to bring in tea bags or hot beverage packets.
Make a Space for Quiet Work
Everyone needs a quiet spot for client contact, and some of your clients may be working with proprietary data. To keep your co-working space equitable, consider creating a sign-up sheet or using a timer on any spaces that offer doors.
If necessary, offer a premium rate for workers who have to have an office for the sake of security. Label this office off-limits unless your client is a premium member.
Parking
Make sure that everyone who has a contract with your co-working space knows the closest public transportation drop-off. If parking is a premium in your region, make it an add-on in your contracts. For those who own co-working space in a city where the majority of workers drive to their office, be ready to rent parking spots that you can reserve for your clients alone. Consider installing security cameras to keep everyone safe.
There are many workers who would be happy to sign up for a co-working contract. Making sure that your space is top of the list will take some planning, particularly if you are taking an existing office and switching it to a co-working space.
