6 Benefits of Using a Coworking Space Austin Has Available

It’s a common misconception that coworking spaces in Austin are only for the freelancer. But, in reality, shared workspaces offer benefits to people of all backgrounds and professions: remote workers looking to get out of their home office into a creative space, entrepreneurs who need short-term office space, or small businesses that don’t want to get locked into a high rent, long-term contract. 

In 2017, 542,000 people worked in coworking spaces in the U.S. That number is expected to grow to 1.08 million in 2022, perhaps even more so since the pandemic. Coworking spaces offer community and inspiration for any professional who needs it – no matter what your work style is like. We’re here to help you find the perfect spot with our guide on the six benefits of coworking space in Austin.

Coworking Space in Austin: What Is It? 

First, let’s talk about what a coworking space is and determine if it’s right for you or your business.

Coworking spaces across Austin have become more and more popular over the years. The dictionary definition is “the use of an office or other working environment by people who are self-employed or working for different employers, typically so as to share equipment, ideas, and knowledge.” 

Coworking spaces offer workers flexibility, variety, and productivity. 

What Types of Individuals and Companies Use Coworking Space?

Coworking isn’t just for people who are self-employed, and there are no requirements to join a coworking space. These shared spaces are great for entrepreneurs to meet new people and network, but you’ll also find the coworking space in Austin is bustling with startups and small companies that aren’t ready to lease their own space. 

Coworking spaces in Austin have also grown more popular with the rise of remote work due to COVID-19. If you don’t have a great Internet connection, space for a home office, or privacy, coworking is a great option. 

No matter where you and your business fall, you’ll be able to network, share ideas, and gain knowledge with people from a variety of industries and backgrounds.

The Benefits of Coworking Space In Austin

Benefit #1: Flexibility to Get (and Pay for) the Space You Actually Need

One of the biggest challenges when renting office space is knowing how much space you need. Do you get just enough office space to fit your current workforce, or do you plan ahead and buy space in anticipation of growth? Every square foot costs money, so it can be an expensive gamble if you end up paying for space you aren’t using.

With coworking spaces in Austin, you can rent what you need by the month. Depending on availability, you can add on space as you grow. If you outgrow your coworking space, you’ll know it’s time to get into a longer-term space.

Benefit #2: No Long-Term Contracts

When you rent commercial office space, you typically have to sign a three to five-year contract. Unless you know you aren’t going to be removing or adding employees for the next three to five years, how do you know you’re getting what you need and not paying for what you don’t?

With the coworking space Austin has available, you rent by the month – no long-term commercial contracts that lock you in and charge you exorbitant fees to break. You have less risk because you are paying as you go instead of having to forecast headcount years into the future. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the cost of breaking a lease when you’re ready for a bigger space. 

Benefit #3: You’re Surrounded by Like-Minded Professionals

Coworking space in Austin provides a great way to network and meet potential clients, collaborators, or mentors. Think of these shared workspaces as an extension of the networking event you never have time for in your everyday life. They make it easy to find the right people with shared interests and values who can help push your business forward – without being stuck at home all day.

Plus, coworking spaces offer a more harmonious atmosphere. With the diversity and fluidity of a coworking space, you’re less likely to find office politics or gossip that might occur in a traditional office.

Benefit #4: Cultivating Community Where None Exists

We’ve all been working solo the past year, most often in our homes where we may not see anyone other than our family or colleagues over Zoom. If we’ve learned anything about the shutdown, it’s that we need community more than we probably thought. 

By working in a coworking space, you have instant community – people to chat with in the breakroom, a new friend to grab lunch with at a nearby food truck, and a variety of people from different backgrounds to get to know.

In a recent survey, 83% of coworking space members said that they’re less lonely after joining a coworking space.

The benefits of coworking space in Austin include not just the opportunity for a professional networking environment, but also exposure to startup culture in Austin and entrepreneurship resources. You can make connections with other creatives who are freelancing or starting their own business like you and learn together from experienced mentors. 

Benefit #5: A Perfect Place for Offsite Meetings

Coworking spaces often have great meeting rooms, some of which you can rent by the day. They are well-equipped with projectors, whiteboards, Internet access (including Wi-Fi), and additional conference room equipment such as flipcharts or easels. 

It’s a great way to get remote workers together or take your in-office workers somewhere different. If your home office or current office doesn’t have a great internet connection, come to a coworking space for the day (or month!) and take advantage of the amenities. 

Find a coworking space in Austin that is located in an interesting neighborhood, where you can end your meeting with a short walk to a coffee shop, bar or restaurant. It will end the day on a high note and bring your people together in a more personal, engaging way.

Benefit #6: Creative Thinking

A lot of independent workers are looking to get out of their home offices into a creative environment where they’ll be surrounded by other creatives and innovators – this is what makes coworking spaces such a great option. Coworking spaces are great for creative thinkers and innovators because there’s always someone available to brainstorm with you. 

Ask the venue owner which other types of businesses rent space there. You may find people in a similar field or industry. Also, take a tour. How does the space make you feel? The vibe? 

If you choose a coworking space with creative design elements on the inside, you’ll find it will inspire creativity in you and your employees. Look for high ceilings, large windows that bring in natural light, and interesting art and furniture.

How to Find Coworking Space in Austin

There are all kinds of coworking spaces in Austin, each with its own flavor. When you are comparing office space, you’ll want to find out the answers to the following questions:

How Is the Space Priced?

• Do you pay by the month, and can you get a discount if you rent a block of months?
• Do they offer guest day passes, and if so, how many per month, and what do they cost?
• Are there any additional fees?

What are the hours of operation?

• Will you have access to the building during weekends and off-hours, and what is considered off-hours?

What amenities are included with the membership?

• Does the venue have a staffed lobby area for guests to check in?
• Do they have conference rooms available by the hour, day, week or month, and do those come with an extra charge?
• Is there onsite parking and is there ever a space problem?
• Are there printers, easily accessible outlets, mailboxes, and other office basics?
• Is there a kitchen/breakroom, and if so, how is it stocked?
• Are workspaces furnished?
• Does the venue have a pleasant outdoor space?
• Are pets welcome?
• Are there any opportunities to network, learn and grow professionally?

What can you expect in terms of service?

• How much desk space is allotted per worker in the communal coworking space?
• Are there private offices available, and if so, what sizes and features?
• Can you rent both private offices and coworking desks?
• What is the average occupancy rate (in case you need to expand)?

H2: Need a Space Today?The great thing about coworking space in Austin is that you typically don’t have to book a place far in advance. In fact, Vuka has day passes available the same day at its two Austin locations. Need longer-term? We offer weekly passes and monthly memberships as well. Check-in with us or visit our website to get started.