Is A Shared Office Space Right For Me?

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A shared office space can come in many forms. From open coworking environments to subleased properties, there are a lot of available options to consider. However, these types of spaces don't work for everyone. In this article, we take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of a shared office space, which can hopefully help you to make an informed decision, based on your requirements.

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Defining Your Requirements

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Before we dive into shared office spaces as a whole, let's take a look at some of the requirements that will need to be defined beforehand. Making a list of these, either mentally or by writing them out, can help to make the decision process even easier. Some factors to consider include:

● Employees - Defining the number of employees that you currently have, or plan to have, can greatly help.

● Hours - When do you or your employees work? Do you need a space with 24/7 access?

● Security - If you use expensive equipment to complete your daily tasks, finding a secure location can offer total peace of mind.

● Convenience - The location of the office space is another factor to consider, making it easy for you and any employees to get to work.

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Advantages Of A Shared Office Space

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Typically, shared office spaces are best suited to anyone that works on their own. Due to the busy nature of a coworking environment, it can often be difficult to relay messages to anyone that is part of your team. There are a variety of advantages to using a shared office space, however, some of which are mentioned below!

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Service Inclusions

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One of the biggest advantages of a shared office share is the variety of services and equipment that is included in the monthly bill. Fully stocked kitchens are a great example of this, with the likes of snacks and filtered water being readily available. Having the place cleaned on a regular basis can also be appealing, especially for anyone that meets their clients on-site. An office space that is well looked after can help to make a good impression while also allowing you to work in comfort.

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Building Connections

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Another positive aspect of being in a shared office environment is the ability to make more connections. Talking to people in the space can help you to build connections with others. It's not uncommon for offices to have other individuals that are in the same industry as you, perhaps even in the same line of work. Of course, this isn't all commercial either, with many friendships being formed in these situations too!

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The Environment

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This point is certainly a matter of personal preference. While at work, the setting can have a big influence on how people focus and work. For most, being in a quiet setting can keep productivity levels at the desired level. With that being said, there are some people that like to work in the presence of others, due to the background noise and overall environment. If you're the latter, then a shared space could prove to be worthwhile.

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Disadvantages Of A Shared Office Space

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Now that we've touched on the advantages of a shared office space, we have to look at the downsides too. As previously mentioned, private office spaces can cost more than shared alternatives but do come with a wider range of benefits. Let's jump straight in!

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Less Flexibility

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With a shared office, you cannot simply make changes when you want to. On the other hand, those who opt for a private office can decide what they'd like the place to look like, with items such as plants and furniture being added as they wish. In addition to making the office look visually appealing, the practicality can also be improved with a private space. Things such as whiteboards can be installed, which can help to keep track of daily operations.

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Little Privacy

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Need to take a call where you'll be sharing sensitive information? Talking numbers with a potential client? This is something that you should avoid when working in a shared office. As the name suggests, a private office will enable you to have conversations in a secure place, without the call being heard by a mass of strangers. This privacy can also add a professional feel to clients, should you need to meet them in person.

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Tougher To Expand

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When running a company, it's important to think of the future. Expansion is something that many small business owners will factor into their initial plan. Shared offices can put limits on the potential expansion that a company can do, as there simply will not be enough space for additional employees to use the same environment. Keep in mind, however, that it is possible to acquire a private space in

the future, but this can be trickier to sort down the line, especially in areas of high demand such as London.

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Distractions

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The final point we will be covering in this article is perhaps one of the most obvious. Being in a large space with lots of people will undoubtedly lead to some distractions. Whether this is in the form of a friendly chat, someone being too loud on the phone, or lack of space in the shared premises, your workflow can be hindered as a result.

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Conclusion

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In conclusion, most business owners will likely benefit from having a private space for themselves and their employees. This space can be divided into different sections, so people that need their own separate office spaces can work in privacy and quiet if needed. Having complete control over the office environment is perhaps one of the most attractive aspects of a private space, which can have the knock-on effect of increased productivity.

For anyone that likes the idea of a shared office space for some of its benefits but ultimately believes a private office best suits their needs, Sub800 is ready to help. We can help you to find an office space that ticks all the right boxes. Included in your package will be 24/7 access to your own private office and fully furnished office space, as well as a full complement of services like cleaning, a regularly stocked kitchen and a stable internet connection. Get in touch with us today for more information or to further discuss your requirements!

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