Choosing the right coworking space can make a difference to how your business operates each day. A good coworking space gives your team a professional environment to work, meet with clients and stay productive.
In this blog, we will cover how to choose a coworking space for a startup and what to look for when comparing different options. We will discuss pricing, meeting rooms, internet, security and community to help you choose a space that meets your business needs.
Why the Right Coworking Space Is Important for Startups
A coworking space is a shared workplace where individuals and businesses can rent desks or private offices while also having access to shared areas and facilities. For a startup, this arrangement can offer greater flexibility than setting up a traditional office, especially as the business grows and its workspace requirements change.
What To Consider When Choosing a Coworking Space
Here are the main things to compare when choosing a coworking space:
Pricing and Inclusions
Cost is often one of the first things startups consider, but the advertised rate may not include everything. Some providers may charge a monthly fee that covers essentials, including internet access and meeting room use. Others charge a lower base rate and add separate fees for printing and meeting room bookings.
When comparing pricing, ask providers to tell you exactly what’s included in the quoted rate. Common inclusions to check for are:
- Business-grade internet and IT support
- Allocated monthly meeting room credits
- Kitchen and lounge access
- Printing allowances
- Access to networking events
Meeting Rooms and Booking Availability
Client meetings, investor pitches and team workshops all need to take place in a professional setting. A membership that looks affordable can quickly become expensive if meeting rooms cost extra every time you use them.
Before signing up, ask about:
- How many meeting rooms are on site
- Whether bookings are included in the membership or charged separately
- How far in advance rooms need to be booked
- Whether rooms are suitable for video calls and allow for hybrid meetings
Internet Reliability and Tech Support
A reliable internet connection is an important feature of a coworking space, especially for businesses that use online tools, email, or video calls as part of their work.
Ask about:
- What internet speed is available
- How internet or technical issues are handled
- Whether there are any limits or restrictions on internet usage
Security, Access, and After-Hours Entry
Startups often work outside standard nine-to-five hours, especially in the early stages when deadlines don’t always fit a typical schedule. This makes after-hours access an important factor.
Questions to raise with a workspace provider include:
- Is the workspace accessible 24/7, or are there set access hours?
- What security measures are in place for members and the workspace?
- Are lockers or secure storage available for members?
Community, Noise, and Atmosphere
A coworking space is still a shared environment, so the people around you can shape your working experience. Some spaces have a quieter atmosphere suited to focused work, while others focus on networking and regular social events.
Consider:
- Does the space hold networking events or workshops?
- How is noise managed in shared areas?
- Are there quiet workspaces for focused work?
- What types of businesses and professionals use the space?
Amenities Worth Comparing
Amenities can make the working day more comfortable and convenient. When comparing providers, check which amenities are included with your membership and which ones are available at an additional cost.
Consider:
- Ready-to-use workspaces with desks and the basic office facilities already in place
- Reception services to greet clients and handle deliveries
- Electric sit-to-stand desks for teams who value ergonomic options
- Dedicated parking
- Access to a coworking lounge separate from private office areas
- Flexible membership terms that can scale with your team
- On-site or nearby cafes, restaurants and food delivery options
- Health and fitness facilities within the building
- Printing allowances
At Mobo Co, we offer a range of amenities, including basement parking, a rooftop pool and a fully equipped kitchen with coffee, tea, microwaves and refrigerators. Together, these amenities give you everything you need to make the most of the workspace.
Making the Decision
To understand how to choose a coworking space, it is important to recognise that no single coworking space will suit every startup. A team that has regular client meetings may need more frequent meeting room access and reception services, while a solopreneur may place greater importance on a quiet workspace and reliable internet access.
When comparing coworking spaces, look at features and amenities that will affect how you use the space, including pricing, meeting rooms, internet, security, access and the overall environment. For startups considering coworking spaces in Brisbane’s South Bank area, you can explore Mobo Co’s pricing and inclusions before deciding. Book a personalised tour and our team will be happy to show you around.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a coworking space different from a traditional office?
A coworking space is a shared work environment with ready-to-use workspaces where individuals or teams from different businesses work alongside each other, usually under a flexible membership arrangement. Traditional offices are leased by a company for a fixed term, with the business responsible for fit-out, maintenance, and utilities.
Does a coworking space suit everyone’s working style?
Coworking spaces suit many working styles. They work well for people who can focus in a shared environment and value flexibility, networking opportunities, and access to professional amenities. Those who require privacy, handle sensitive client information, or prefer a fully controlled workspace may find a private office more appropriate.
How will working in a coworking space benefit me?
Working in a coworking space gives you access to professional amenities, reliable internet, and meeting rooms without the cost of a traditional office lease. You also benefit from a structured, dedicated work environment that can help you separate work from home.
What does a membership cost?
Membership costs vary between coworking spaces and can depend on the type of workspace, location, and what is included. Many providers offer monthly memberships, although pricing and inclusions may vary.
Are coworking spaces good for networking?
Working in a coworking space allows you to encounter other professionals and businesses. This can create opportunities to exchange ideas, build professional connections, and collaborate with people you may not otherwise meet through your usual work.