10 Ways to Make Your Coworking Space Pop

Because the number of coworking spaces is constantly increasing, it is more important than ever to ensure that your coworking space stands out from the crowd. There were 238 new flexible workspace openings in our October coworking new spaces analysis, with 46.2 percent of those being new businesses rather than expansions from existing ones. With the industry's rapid growth, you won't be able to attract members unless you figure out how to differentiate coworking space offerings.

Here are 10 Ways to Make Your Coworking Space Stand Out:

 1. Choose an Easy-to-Reach Location

Choosing a good location is one of the best ways to make your coworking space stand out. If your city has all of its spaces concentrated in one area, move it to the other side of town. Alternatively, design your space to be close to various modes of public transportation. Consider making a statement by placing it near an airport to attract business travellers.

2. Make Room for Phone Booths and Meeting Rooms

While phone booths are now available in most coworking spaces, this is not always the case. Include phone booths that also function as video/Skype booths to make your space stand out. Make sure they are soundproof to reduce distractions and have adequate lighting for video conferences. Most coworking spaces have some sort of meeting space, but it is usually limited to four or eight people. While 10-person meeting rooms are more common, meeting rooms with enough space for 20 or 25 people are rare and usually reserved for larger coworking companies. Consider including a multipurpose space that can meet this need to stand out.

3. Have Fantastic Wifi

Wifi is something that many offices overlook, but it is the most important thing a business requires. Without good, operational Wifi, your entire space comes to a halt. Invest in a good Wifi provider, and your members will not only be impressed by its speed, but will also want to stay.

4. Alternative Seating Possibilities

The various seating options are one of the factors that contribute to the differentiation of coworking space offerings. Almost all will have some sort of desk, but most will also have other seating options, such as couches. You can make a statement with unique desks, such as standing desks or treadmill desks, or other seating options, such as beanbag chairs or hammocks. If you choose nontraditional seating, consider providing portable lap desks for added convenience.

5. Provide Phone and Address Services

While many coworking spaces allow members to use their own address or phone number, this is not always the case. Including address and phone services can give you a significant advantage over other coworking spaces, and you can even offer them as virtual coworking services. As an added bonus, inform members that you accept package deliveries as well.

6. Stock Up on Essentials

Consider what items you would find in a typical office and make sure to provide these items to your members. Offering necessities such as paper, sticky notes, envelopes, folders, pens, and paperclips will help you attract members who know they won't have to worry about the small stuff. Nobody wants to work in an office that is constantly out of printing paper.

7. Provide an Outdoor Area

While some people prefer to work inside, others prefer to work outside in the fresh air and sunlight. Make your coworking space stand out by including an outdoor work area in addition to the indoor ones, if possible. This could be a balcony, courtyard, or rooftop. Make sure there is plenty of seating in this outdoor area.

8. Provide Specialized Services

You can also help your space stand out by providing services that cater to a specific niche. Offer a plotter in addition to your standard printer, or a 3-D printer. Provide childcare if you want to attract working parents. You can provide services that are relevant to your industry no matter what your niche is.

9. Find Partners

Your coworking space can stand out by partnering with local businesses and organisations. There may be a way to get members discounts at a local cafe or better cab fares through a partnership.

10. Create a Community

Create a sense of community in your coworking space to set it apart from the competition. Encourage collaboration by hosting events. Take the time to get to know your members and plan activities.