Top 5 Questions to Ask When Selecting a Coworking or Flexible Office Space

Choosing the right coworking or flexible office space is crucial for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses. With numerous options available, asking the right questions is essential to ensure the space meets your needs and enhances your productivity.

What questions should you ask when searching for coworking or flexible office space? Here are the top five questions to ask before making your decision.

1. What Amenities and Services Are Included?

Before committing to a coworking space, inquire about the amenities and services offered. Although these won’t make or break your workday, they can make a significant difference in comfort, convenience, and even time management, as well as add value to your coworking space.

For example, ask if the building has snacks and coffee available, catering services, meeting room access, printing and photocopying facilities, and access to events or networking opportunities. You should also consider whether the building has shuttle services, on-site parking, a gym, pet-friendly spaces, and access to transportation.

Assess your specific requirements and preferences and ensure that the space provides the necessary amenities to support your work and well-being, especially for the price.

2. How Flexible Are Your Membership Options?

Flexibility is a key component of coworking spaces. So when looking for the right fit, about their membership options, whether they offer month-to-month plans or longer-term commitments, and their pricing structure.

Ask if the building has options to upgrade or downgrade your membership as your needs evolve, especially on short notice. You can also inquire about virtual memberships, booking an office for a day or as needed, and whether you can personalize your dedicated office space.

Understanding the flexibility of the space allows you to choose the most suitable arrangement for your business, depending on your goals and projected growth.

3. What Is the Community and Working Environment Like?

The sense of community is a significant advantage of coworking spaces. Ask about the current members and the industries they represent. Consider if the community aligns with your professional goals and if there are opportunities for collaboration or networking.

Many coworking spaces will have networking opportunities or events for you to grow your business. Additionally, check if the company organizes events or workshops that align with your interests or professional development needs.

In addition, the working environment can greatly impact your productivity and satisfaction. Visit the coworking space and observe the atmosphere. Note the noise level, cleanliness, and overall comfort. 

While you’re there, ask about their policies on shared resources, communal areas, and coworking etiquette to ensure a harmonious working experience that aligns with your needs.

4. How Available Are Meeting Spaces?

Meeting spaces are crucial for conducting client meetings, team collaborations, or presentations, so find out if your coworking space has them available, especially for last-minute bookings.

Inquire about the availability, types, and sizes of meeting rooms. Consider if they offer advanced booking options and if there are any additional charges for meeting room usage. Ask about how to book a room and whether it can be conveniently done online, such as through an app.

Access to suitable meeting spaces is vital for maintaining a professional image and conducting business effectively.

5. Do You Offer High-Speed, Dedicated Internet?

Most coworking spaces offer high-speed internet but ask if they provide dedicated internet rather than open-access internet. Dedicated, high-speed internet will ensure you and your team have the connectivity you need to complete your work without interruption.

You can also ask about their upload and download speeds and if they ever experience outages. Since connectivity is vital to getting your work done, understanding the building’s Wi-Fi is essential when you’re making your decision.

Find Your Perfect Space at Carlyle Tower

Selecting the right flexible office space can enhance productivity, foster connections, and provide a professional work environment. By asking these questions, you can gain insight into the working environment offered by different spaces. Considering a coworking or flexible office space in Alexandria? Discover all we offer at Carlyle Tower!