One of the difficult decisions about starting your own business is choosing an office space. You don’t want to commit before you are sure that your business will work out, but you also need to have an address to put on your business cards and advertisements. The answer? Coworking.

Being in a shared space can be beneficial to entrepreneurs who are trying to get their businesses up and running because it offers many amenities at a much lower price than renting or buying office space. However, there are still some things you should consider when sacrificing privacy for the privilege of working alongside others. The following are tips for choosing a coworking office Melbourne:

1. Size

Of course, you do not want to commit to an office that is too small for your business. But, on the other hand, you don’t want to get stuck with a large space that will be difficult to fill. Ideally, there should be at least one other person in the coworking space who has a similar type of business as yours.

2. Location

The location of your coworking space can make or break your company’s success. You must choose a convenient area where employees and clients will have easy access to meetings and deliveries. The location should also prove inspiring since you will spend most of your time there working. If possible, try choosing a spot near public transportation or activities that will keep staff happy and energized throughout the day.

3. Amenities

Of course, you will be paying more to rent the office space if it includes a variety of amenities. Some amenities that might be included are the internet, use of a conference room for meetings, and use of a copy machine and printer. You should consider whether or not these amenities fit into your business plan. If they do, then this may save you money in the long run because you won’t have to pay out of pocket for them as often.

4. Qualifications

The property managers should have qualifications from licensing companies such as real estate investments trusts (REITs) or commercial mortgage brokers to ensure that you are getting a good deal. Also, look at the facility’s reviews from customers on Google Business Reviews because this will help you to be sure that it is a safe and reliable place to work.

5. Security

If your coworking space has an office manager or property manager on-site, then there should be security present. It is important that you feel comfortable with the existing security measures because if something were to happen, you want to know that there are people around who can respond quickly. The space should also have 24/7 access since you never know when inspiration will strike and cause innovators to stay late at the office.

6. Community

Last but not least, look for a coworking space with people working inside it who are friendly and professional. You want to make sure that the other coworkers are good examples of what your company culture embodies so that your staff and clients will feel comfortable in that environment.

Another option, which we also recommend, is to join the coworking community here at Desktime. We allow you to work from our shared desk space, where you can meet new people and create a professional atmosphere suitable for your business needs.

Jean Revell