If you’re like most freelancers or small business owners, you probably spend a lot of time working from home. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, sometimes it can be nice to have a change of scenery. That’s where coworking spaces come in.
Coworking spaces are places where people who work for themselves can get away from the distractions of home and get some work done in a professional setting. In addition to providing a change of scenery, coworking spaces can also be great places to network and collaborate with other freelancers or small business owners.
If you’re considering renting a desk at a coworking space, here are a few tips to help you make the most of it.
1. Set Some Ground Rules for Yourself
Just because you’re not working in an office doesn’t mean you can’t set some ground rules for yourself. One of the great things about working from a coworking space is that you can design your work schedule. So if you know you need a few hours daily to focus on deep work, make sure to block off that time on your calendar. And if you find yourself distracted by social media or email when trying to work, set some limits to stay focused.
2. Get to Know the Other People Who Work There
The great thing about coworking spaces is meeting others with similar interests. When you’re working from home, it’s easy to feel isolated and alone. But when you’re sharing a space with other freelancers or small business owners, it’s easy to establish conversations and build relationships. So take some time to get to know the people around you. You never know when you might need help with something or be able to offer help in return.
3. Make Use of the Common Areas
Most coworking spaces have common areas where people can take breaks, have meetings, or just socialize. These areas are usually furnished with things like couches, coffee tables, and whiteboards. And while it might be tempting to just plop down in front of your laptop and get to work, try to take advantage of these common areas as much as possible. They’re great places to take calls, meet with clients, or just take a break from staring at your screen all day.
4. Take Advantage of the Perks
In addition to providing a workspace, many coworking spaces offer their members access to conference rooms, printers, and coffee machines. And some even offer more unique perks like free beer or snacks! If your coworking space offers any type of perk or discount, take advantage of it to save money and make your work life more enjoyable.
If you’ve been working from home for a while and are starting to feel antsy for a change of scenery, consider renting a desk at a coworking space. With some planning and effort, you can make the most of your new workspace and maybe even find new friends along the way!
