How to set up a coworking: 8 steps

Times change and ways of working too. With the increase in the number of entrepreneurs, services have emerged specifically for them, such as shared workspaces. The demand for them has not stopped growing in recent years, so it is an interesting business idea. Let's see how to set up a coworking.

What defines the coworking space?

To know how to create a coworking space, first we must be clear about what it is. It is a space where entrepreneurs from different sectors have at their disposal resources to work, generally computers and a good Internet connection. A priori, this is no different from shared offices, but there is a nuance that is the key. In coworking spaces, there is the figure of the manager, a professional who ensures that entrepreneurs working there get to know each other and establish relationships between them. That is, in addition to the professional dimension, it also seeks to give it a somewhat more social dimension.

Types of coworking:

1. Real Estate Coworking. The space shared by real estate agents, small real estate companies, real estate investors, and anyone involved in the real estate sector (Adaix).
2. Educational: Office + Courses. Spaces with a strong commitment to innovation and the design of spaces that promote key skills and competencies for the personal and professional life of their students. (Talent Garden).
3. Incubators and accelerators. Although they are not a type of coworking as such, we have considered it interesting to include them in this list since certain coworking spaces offer acceleration services and programs (Open Future).
4. Specific Coworking. There are spaces created to bring together a specific professional profile. The space Ecoworking, for professionals linked to the Environment and Sustainability.
5. Coworking for large companies. Coworkings oriented to large companies are able to admit teams of more than 50 people, although this does not mean that they stop accepting small businesses and/or freelancers. In fact, the formula for the success of coworkings lies in this mix of professionals (Utopicus).
6. Aggregators. They are aggregator search engines for spaces that combine the possibility of finding spaces anywhere, with time, people, and specific date needs. (Bookker).
7. Coworking Marketplaces. It is a digital supermarket of unique spaces for any activity. (PeerSpace)
8. Cafes as coworking spaces. New philosophy of workspaces makes your restaurant transform (or dedicate a specific space) into Coworking (Wanda café).
9. Coliving or community living for new professionals. In addition to sharing the workspace in the so-called coworking centers, entrepreneurs have taken it a step further and decided to share kitchen, sofa, and bathroom in the new coliving spaces. (Sun and Co)
10. Coworking for community. For example: women (The wing).

What is needed to set up a coworking space?

Location

In this type of business the premises are the most important. We must ensure that it has a good location, enough space for the workstations you would like to have and good natural lighting.

Interior design

As for the interior design, it is normal that some reforms have to be made. It is best that the space is as open as possible. This allows the professionals who work there to see each other constantly and not feel isolated.

Mobility

You must remove architectural barriers and have adapted restrooms for people with some type of mobility problem.

Areas and rooms

The workstations must have enough space so that each professional can work comfortably without disturbing others or being disturbed. In addition, there will be a rest area and it is also convenient to have a separate meeting room.

Service

Having a comfortable and creative environment is important, but more important is providing good service to its users, for example fast Internet, 24/7 access and etc.If you want to avoid the problems inherent in managing physical keys or cards, you can install the Raixer smart lock that allows you to control access to your employees, staff and visitors from the cloud.

Decoration

As for the decoration, it should be simple but welcoming at the same time. And what cannot be missing is a good air conditioning system.

Opening license

Logically, you must request the corresponding opening license from the City Council to make everything legal.

Create Community

Helps to generate connections. Think that members join a community because they expect the space to open doors for them.The coworking space manager must be the center of the community.

How to manage a coworking space?

First, you need to have an attractive website and position it well. Through it or an app, you can create a job reservation system. Have a trusted manager who knows how to treat people and help build relationships. Also, digital tools that allow entrepreneurs to stay connected even when they're not in the coworking space can be helpful. Pay attention to details. Prepare a small surprise if it's one of the members' birthdays, bring a special snack from time to time, etc. You can also propose alternative activities to work. Talks, events, gatherings, specific courses, among others. This encourages entrepreneurs to interact more with each other and also encourages them to make the coworking space known to other professionals. You've seen that when it comes to how to set up a coworking space, you shouldn't just focus on preparing a good workspace, you also have to make an effort day by day to make the members of the coworking space feel comfortable and want to stay in it. Coworkers are the spirit of your business, don't forget it.

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