How to set up a coworking space: 8 steps

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

What defines a coworking space?

To know how to create a coworking space, we must first be clear about what it is. It is a space where entrepreneurs from different sectors have resources for working at their disposal, generally computers and a good internet connection. A priori, this does not differ from shared offices, but there is one nuance that is key. In coworking spaces, there is a manager figure, a professional whose job is to ensure that the entrepreneurs working there get to know each other and establish relationships. That is, in addition to the professional dimension, there is also an aim 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 lives of their students. (Talent Garden).
3. Incubators and accelerators. Although they do not constitute a type of coworking as such, we considered it interesting to include them in this list as certain coworking spaces offer acceleration services and programmes (Open Future).
4. Specific coworking. There are spaces created to bring together a specific professional profile. The Ecoworking space, for professionals linked to Environment and Sustainability.
5. Coworking for large companies. Coworking spaces aimed at large companies are capable of accommodating teams of more than 50 people, although this does not mean they stop accepting small companies and/or freelancers. In fact, the mix of professionals is the formula for the success of coworking spaces (Utopicus).
6. Aggregators. These are search engines that aggregate spaces, bringing together the possibility of finding spaces anywhere, with specific needs for time, people, and dates. (Bookker).
7. Coworking Marketplaces. This is a digital supermarket of unique spaces for any activity. (PeerSpace)
8. Cafes as coworking spaces. A new philosophy of workspaces means that your restaurant is transformed (or dedicates a specific space) to Coworking (Wanda café).
9. Coliving or community living for new professionals. In addition to sharing the workspace in so-called coworking centres, entrepreneurs have gone a step further and decided to share a kitchen, sofa, and bathroom in new coliving spaces. (Sun and Co)
10. Coworking for community. For example: women (The wing).

What do you need to set up a coworking space?

Location

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

Interior design

Regarding interior design, it is normal that some renovations are necessary. It is best that the space is as open plan as possible. This allows the professionals working there to see each other constantly and not feel isolated.

Mobility

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

Areas and rooms

Workstations must have enough space for each professional to work comfortably without disturbing others or being disturbed. Additionally, there will be a break area and it is also advisable to have a separate meeting room.

Service

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

Decoration

As for decoration, it should be simple yet welcoming. And what cannot be missing is a good climate control system.

Operating license

Logically, you will need to apply for the corresponding operating license from the City Council for everything to be legal.

Build Community

It helps generate connections. Remember that members join a community because they expect the space to open doors for them. The coworking space manager should be at the heart of the community.

How to manage a coworking space?

The first thing is to have an attractive website and position it well. Through it or an app, you can create a workstation booking system. Have a trusted manager who knows how to deal with people and help build relationships. Digital tools that allow entrepreneurs to stay connected even when they are not in the coworking space can also be helpful. Pay attention to details. Prepare a small surprise if it's a member's birthday, bring a special snack from time to time, etc. You can also propose alternative activities to work. Talks, events, meetups, specific courses, among others. This encourages entrepreneurs to interact more with each other and also encourages them to promote the coworking space to other professionals. You've seen that when it comes to setting up a coworking space, you shouldn't just limit yourself to preparing a good workspace; you also have to strive every day to make the coworking space members feel comfortable and want to stay. Coworkers are the spirit of your business, don't forget that.

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