Should You Try a Coworking Space Before Committing?

Imagine you're on the fence about joining a coworking space. You're intrigued by the idea of a flexible workspace but hesitant to commit without trying it first. You're not alone. Many people, especially remote workers, grapple with this decision. Fortunately, coworking spaces often offer trial options that let you "test the waters" before diving in. This post will explore whether you can try a coworking space before committing and help you weigh your options with a side-by-side analysis.

Why Consider Coworking Spaces?

Coworking spaces have become increasingly popular as more people work remotely or freelance. According to a study by Deskmag, the number of coworking spaces worldwide is expected to reach 30,000 by 2025, hosting over 5 million members. These spaces offer the chance to work in a professional environment without the distractions of home or the isolation of a coffee shop.

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Overview of Option A: Trying a Coworking Space Before Committing

Many coworking spaces understand that signing up sight unseen is a tough sell. That's why they offer trial options like day passes or short-term memberships. These options allow you to experience the environment without a long-term commitment. For instance, WeWork locations in cities like New York often let you tour the facility and stay for the remainder of the day. This gives you a firsthand feel of the workspace vibe, amenities, and community.

Key Features of Trial Options

Day Passes: Typically, you pay a small fee to utilize the coworking space for a day. It's a low-risk way to see if the atmosphere suits your work style.
Trial Periods: Some spaces offer a free or discounted trial period, which might range from a day to a week. This extended time can be helpful to see how the space works for you on different days.
Flexible Memberships: Many coworking spots, including WeWork, offer month-to-month memberships, allowing you to cancel without penalty if the space isn't the right fit.

Studies show that people who try coworking spaces first are 40% more likely to continue using them. This suggests experiencing the environment firsthand can significantly impact your satisfaction and decision-making.

Overview of Option B: Committing Without a Trial

Alternatively, you might consider diving straight into a membership without a trial. This approach can be beneficial if you’re already familiar with coworking spaces or if you’re ready to commit to a specific location based on reputation or recommendations. This can sometimes come with incentives like lower membership rates or reserved desk choices.

Key Features of Committing Immediately

Direct Membership: Signing up immediately can sometimes save you money if there are promotions for longer commitments.
Priority Access: Committing might give you priority in choosing your workspace options, like dedicated desks or private offices.
Community Integration: By committing, you often become more quickly integrated into the coworking community, which can be beneficial for networking and socializing.

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Key Differences

Flexibility

The most significant difference is flexibility. Trying before you buy allows you to explore different spaces and see which one feels right. Committing immediately may save you time but offers less flexibility if the space isn’t a good fit.

Financial Commitment

Financially, a trial period usually involves less upfront cost, allowing you to budget effectively without a large initial outlay. In contrast, committing right away might require a more significant financial investment, though it could include cost-saving benefits in the long term.

Decision Confidence

Trying a space first can boost your confidence in the decision, as you’ll have a clearer sense of what daily life there will be like. Committing without a trial may rely more on research and testimonials, which may not capture the personal feel of the space.

Pros & Cons

Pros of Trying Before Committing

Low Risk: You can walk away without losing a lot if it’s not for you.
Variety: Opportunity to try multiple spaces to find the best match.
Experience: Gain firsthand knowledge of the amenities and community.

Cons of Trying Before Committing

Limited Availability: Some spaces may not offer day passes or trials.
Potential Costs: If you try multiple spaces, day pass fees can add up.

A survey by Coworker found that 52% of people who trial multiple spaces end up finding a better fit, though they might spend an average of $50-$100 on trial fees.

Pros of Committing Immediately

Possible Discounts: Longer commitments could come with financial incentives.
Streamlined Process: Skip the hassle of multiple trials and secure your spot.
Community Immersion: Faster integration into the coworking community.

Cons of Committing Immediately

Higher Risk: If the space doesn’t meet your needs, you might regret the commitment.
Lack of Comparison: You miss the chance to compare different environments.

Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding whether to try a coworking space before committing depends on your personal priorities and work style. If you value flexibility and want to explore your options, trying before you commit is ideal. It's particularly suitable for first-timers or those uncertain about what they need from a workspace.

On the other hand, if you're confident in your choice or under time constraints, committing immediately could benefit you, especially if you’ve done thorough research or have recommendations from friends who are members.

Conclusion

Choosing the right coworking space is a personal decision that can significantly impact your productivity and satisfaction. By considering trial options like day passes or short-term memberships, you can make a more informed decision. Alternatively, if you're ready to dive in, immediate commitment can offer its own set of benefits. WeWork, for instance, often has promotional rates for those willing to commit to longer terms.

Next Steps

Research and List: Start by listing coworking spaces in your area that offer trial options.
Schedule Visits: Arrange tours or trial days to experience the spaces firsthand.
Evaluate: Use your trial experiences to assess what you value most in a coworking space.
Decide: Choose the option that aligns best with your needs, whether trying first or committing immediately.

By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to find the coworking space that fits your work life perfectly. Remember, the right environment can make all the difference in your productivity and job satisfaction.