Why move to a coworking space?

Choosing the right location can be decisive for a young company. In the founding years of a start-up, it is about being flexible, cost-effective and networked. While traditional offices were traditionally regarded as “ideal” corporate headquarters, coworking spaces today offer a much more attractive alternative — especially for startups and scale-ups, but also for other companies. But why does it make more sense to work in a coworking space instead of renting your own office? Here are the most important reasons:

‍

1. Cost savings and financial flexibility

Having your own office means high initial investments: rental deposit, furniture, equipment and long-term rental contracts. Coworking spaces, on the other hand, offer flexible rental models that only pay for the space and time that are actually needed. This offers financial freedom and the opportunity to use the funds elsewhere — for example for product development or growth. And if the team grows or needs to be downsized at short notice, bookings can be easily adjusted.

“Many small companies compare apples to oranges. A coworking space has all-inclusive prices and must therefore be compared with the full costs of traditional rent.”

‍

2. Networking opportunities and community

A coworking space is much more than just a workplace. It is a community of like-minded people, creatives and other startups, scale-up, and companies. The daily exchange can lead to new partnerships, valuable contacts or unexpected collaborations. These networks are often worth their weight in gold when it comes to moving your own company forward and making initial business contacts.

‍

3. Professional infrastructure at no additional cost

A coworking space provides everything a startup, scale-up or company needs to work: modern meeting rooms, high-speed Internet, telephone booths and technical equipment such as printers or smartboards. It would be extremely expensive to equip your own office in this form. In addition, there is no need for maintenance and administration — this saves time and money, which can be better invested in your own business.

“Coworking spaces often have higher quality equipment than a startup or scale-up. They get better deals with well-known, professional furniture manufacturers because they buy in larger quantities.”

‍

4. Flexibility when growing and adapting

Startups and scale-ups are inherently dynamic. Projects can grow or shrink, teams can change and priorities can be redefined. Coworking spaces offer the flexibility to adapt quickly to these changes. While a classic office often requires long-term rental agreements, a coworking space can be expanded or reduced as required. Additional workplaces, rooms for workshops or larger events can be booked flexibly if required.

‍

5. Access to events and events

Coworking spaces offer their members, startups, scale-ups or other companies more than just jobs. Events, workshops or networking events specifically tailored to the needs of startups take place there regularly. These events are ideal opportunities to educate yourself, stay up to date with the latest industry developments and learn from experts. In a traditional office, on the other hand, such options are usually left out, unless you organise them yourself.

“The ecosystem of coworking spaces includes well-known networks that reach a wider reach and thus attract more and more new people.”

‍

6. Positive corporate culture and working atmosphere

The open and creative atmosphere in a coworking space promotes team spirit, exchange and innovation. This is where hierarchies are flatter, communication channels shorter and the joy of ideas is stimulated. This is particularly important for startups and scale-ups in order to find solutions quickly and react dynamically to changes. This inspiring environment also makes employees feel more comfortable and feel that their work is less “rigid” — a plus point for employee satisfaction.

“Good working environment is the most important factor when looking for jobs for 80 percent of female and 60 percent of male millennials.” EY Career Paths Study for Swiss Millenials 2022

‍

7. Representative address and professional appearance

A coworking space often offers a representative business address that startups, scale-ups and companies can use to present a professional image to the outside world. This is particularly helpful when talking to customers and investors. The ability to use meeting rooms or event rooms for business meetings also strengthens the impression of an established company, even if it is still in the start-up or growth phase.

‍

8. Focus on the essentials: The business

The administrative workload of having your own office should not be underestimated: Cleaning, maintenance, IT setups and kitchen equipment are just a few of the tasks that need to be completed. In a coworking space, the host takes on all of these tasks. That means fewer distractions and more time for what really counts — developing and growing the business.

‍

9. Employee acquisition and retention

For many professionals, particularly for generations Y and Z, the working environment is a decisive factor when choosing an employer. Modern, flexible working conditions, such as those offered by coworking spaces, are considered more attractive than traditional offices. This environment promotes creativity and provides space for personal development. As a result, startups and scale-ups have better chances of attracting talent and retaining them with the company in the long term.

“Location is a major factor in employee acquisition, which is very often underestimated.”

‍

10. Quick start and little bureaucracy

Renting a classic office can be a lengthy process — it often takes weeks or months from contract negotiation to final handover of keys. A coworking space, on the other hand, allows you to get started quickly: The company can be ready for use within a few days. This speed and uncomplicated contract terms are particularly advantageous in the dynamic start-up and scale-up world.

‍

Conclusion: Coworking spaces as an ideal solution for startups

Startups and scale-ups include flexibility, network options, cost control and a professional environment. Coworking spaces offer all of that — and more. While a classic office involves long-term commitments and high administrative costs, coworking spaces create a dynamic working environment that is ideally tailored to the needs of growing, agile companies.