Co-working is quickly becoming one of the most popular modes of working in the UK – it’s not surprising given than 5 million individuals utilise co-working spaces across the globe. Whether you’re a start up owner, freelance, a hybrid-worker, or work fully remote, a co-working space can be transformative for your productivity.
Here at Grosvenor House, we see first-hand the impact co-working facilities can have on individuals and SME’s through our own co-working space, and see many businesses moving away from owning office spaces and towards renting co-working facilities on a more flexible basis. Considering booking a co-working space? Here are the most commonly asked questions we encounter as a premium co-working space provider!
Why is coworking space so popular?
The way the UK approaches work is changing, and has undertaken a huge shift since the coronavirus pandemic. Hybrid working – which involves dividing your work between office and home – has become the norm with 44% of UK businesses promoting the hybrid working model. With employees spending less time in offices, many businesses are downsizing their offices or shifting away from them entirely, with 45% of businesses with office space planning on downsizing in the near future. As a result, UK businesses are on the hunt for new modes of working with a focus on flexible leases that accommodate the hybridity of their workforce, hence the boost in popularity of the coworking model.
What is coworking space?
A coworking space is a shared work environment where individuals from different companies, professions, or freelancing backgrounds can work independently or collaboratively. Unlike traditional office settings, coworking spaces offer flexible memberships that cater to the diverse needs of their users, such as hot desks, dedicated desks, and meeting rooms. These spaces are designed to provide workers with amenities that provide quality and convenience such as high-speed internet and office equipment, as well as access to communal areas and networking events.
Who uses coworking spaces?
Coworking spaces are popular among a diverse range of professionals seeking flexible work environments, but are especially popular with small businesses and remote workers. Freelancers and entrepreneurs often use these spaces to access affordable office amenities and networking opportunities without committing to large overhead costs. Startups and small businesses find coworking spaces ideal for fostering collaboration and innovation without the overhead costs of traditional office leases. Remote workers benefit from the structure and community that coworking spaces provide, allowing them to maintain productivity while enjoying a social atmosphere. Additionally, large corporations sometimes use coworking spaces to support satellite teams or remote employees, leveraging the dynamic environment to boost creativity and employee satisfaction.
How can I be a good coworker?
To be a good coworker, it’s important to be mindful of others’ workspaces and maintain respect for their personal areas. Stick to your own desk or designated work area and avoid encroaching on others’ space to help maintain a harmonious office environment. Additionally, if you anticipate being on a long call or participating in a meeting where you’ll be speaking frequently, it’s considerate to book a meeting room in advance. This practice ensures that you do not disturb your fellow coworkers and allows everyone to work more efficiently and comfortably.
How much does a coworking space cost?
Different coworking space providers offer different packages – for example, here at Grosvenor House we provide coworking spaces from as little as £6.50 per day when you book via our subscription model. However, you can also book daily co-working spaces for £30 per day, 12 days of co-working space for £300, or book by day or month for as little as £7.50. Whatever your schedule and needs may be, there’s a package for you – you can browse packages here.
Why use a coworking space?
Coworking spaces come with an abundance of benefits, including:
Professional Environment: Coworking spaces provide a professional setting that can help improve focus and productivity, compared to working from home or in a coffee shop.
Networking Opportunities: These spaces are often filled with professionals from various industries, offering ample opportunities for networking, collaboration, and potential partnerships. Here at Grosvenor House, all of our co-working clients are invited to join our Grosvenor Business Club networking events to connect with likeminded entrepreneurs across the region.
Flexibility: Many coworking spaces offer flexible membership plans, allowing you to choose from daily, weekly, or monthly options based on your needs.
Amenities and Resources: Coworking spaces typically come equipped with essential office amenities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, printers, and sometimes even perks like coffee and snacks.
Work-Life Balance: Separating your work environment from your home can help maintain a better work-life balance, making it easier to ‘switch off’ at the end of the day.
Cost-Effective: Renting a coworking space can be more cost-effective than leasing a traditional office, especially when considering the included amenities and utilities.
Can you rent a coworking space for a day?
This depends entirely on the provider. While some coworking spaces may require a monthly subscription, Grosvenor House offers both daily and monthly rental options to accommodate various needs – simply get in touch with our team on 0121 392 8533 or at info@grosvenorstpauls.com to find out what the best option is for you.
What do I put in a coworking space?
What the Coworking Space Should Provide:
- Desk: A sturdy, clean desk with enough space for work materials.
- Landline Phone: A landline phone for those who need it, though many may use their own mobile phones.
- Charging Ports: Accessible and ample charging ports for laptops, phones, and other devices.
- Kitchen Facilities: Basic kitchen amenities like a coffee machine, microwave, refrigerator, and utensils for convenience.
- Wi-Fi: Reliable and high-speed internet access is crucial for productivity.
What You Should Bring:
- Laptop: Your primary tool for work, essential for almost all tasks.
- Pens and Paper: For notes, sketches, and brainstorming.
- Chargers: For your laptop, phone, and any other electronic devices you use.
- Personal Items: Such as a water bottle, snacks, or any personal comfort items you may need.
What should I consider when choosing a coworking space?
Ensuring that the coworking space aligns with your work requirements and lifestyle can greatly enhance your productivity and satisfaction.
Cost is a primary consideration; you’ll want to evaluate whether the space fits within your budget while offering good value for the amenities provided. Additionally, location plays a crucial role—ideally, the space should be conveniently situated near your home or key areas of business, with good access to public transportation and local services. Finally, the facilities offered are equally important. Assess the quality of the workspace, including aspects like internet speed, meeting rooms, office equipment, and overall comfort.
How does booking a coworking space work?
Booking a coworking space with Grosvenor House couldn’t be easier – you can give our friendly team a call to discuss your requirements and book over the phone, or you can purchase the co-working package to suit you online. Before you book, you must consider the frequency of your visits to our coworking area – we offer both daily and monthly access.
It is also worth noting that here at Grosvenor House we offer broader virtual office packages that go beyond offering coworking access: we proudly provide comprehensive packages for SMEs including call handling services, mail forwarding services, virtual business addresses, bookable meeting rooms and more.
Explore Our Birmingham Co-Working Space
Searching for a co-working space in Birmingham? Grosvenor House is the answer! Our newly refurbished co-working area is open and available for bookings in the picturesque St Paul’s Square, Birmingham, on a daily or monthly basis. With ample space, unlimited refreshments and super-fast WiFi, we’ve created the perfect area for startups, freelancers and remote workers to work. Simply fill out the form below to send an enquiry to a member of our team, or find out about more about our co-working offerings here – we look forward to welcoming you to the Grosvenor family!