Freelancing has become more and more popular over the last decade, and this growth is showing no signs of slowing – in 2020, there were 2.2 million freelancers in the UK alone! Freelancers can work anywhere in the world, and so for businesses, they can provide an attractive alternative to hiring a full-time, permanent employee.
The rise in the number of freelancers has increased demand for flexible workspace, where freelancers can use desk space, increase their productivity, get inspired by fellow coworkers, and grow their professional networks. Before you join a space, it’s important to make sure it’s the right choice for you – consider location, the feel of the space, amenities, the types of businesses in the space, and the cost!
Once you’ve made your choice, it’s all about making the most of your membership! In this article, we look at how to optimise the benefits of a coworking space as a freelancer.
Freelancers are mainly dependant on their networks, and what better place to grow your client base than in a coworking space!?
Coworking spaces tend to accommodate a lot of startup and smaller businesses, who may often need to hire freelancers. Do your research on which startups use the coworking space and think of ways to connect with them. Who knows? One of them may be your next client. Following the pandemic, mid-sized and even larger companies are utilising coworking spaces, which provides you with an even larger network of people to connect with.
When you are in the coworking space, make the most of the potential network available to you. Attend any events the space puts on and speak to as many people as possible in the shared areas – think of everyone you meet as a potential business connection or new client!
As well as meeting your fellow coworkers, your coworking space managers will also have a wealth of knowledge and connections they can share with you. They spend a lot of time speaking to other businesses and freelancers, and learning about their skills, wants and needs – so they’ll be able to refer your services to other members. The space’s Manager may be able to help you secure a lot of new business, so it’s worth getting to know them and telling them about what you do!
This isn’t a given with every coworking space, but many larger operators now also put on a range of events such as dedicated networking events, to learning, and fitness. Naturally, all events come with some invaluable face-to-face networking opportunities. Aside from that, there may be other events that can help you develop your skill set and meet great business connections.
It might also be a good idea to see if you can get involved in an event. Can you present your skills and know-how to other members? This is a great way to promote your business.
If you’re a coworking space member, you can benefit from top-notch meeting rooms with video conferencing and screen sharing facilities. Inviting clients into meet at your coworking space can give your business a level of professionalism. Also, coffee and snacks are usually free – a great way to impress potential or existing clients!
Coworking spaces will often have wellness perks and facilities for members to enjoy. At Work.Life, for example, you can attend yoga classes to relieve stress, and enjoy weekly Wellness Wednesday events with healthy snacks on offer. As a freelancer, it can be all-too-easy to work long hours – but it’s important for mental wellbeing to take regular breaks, and look after your overall health. Why not make use of the perks on offer to do just that?
Many coworking spaces also have referral programs which enable you to make some extra cash for successfully referring friends. It’s just another way to make the most of your membership. Click here to find out about Work.Life’s referral programme, available to members and non-members.
A coworking space offers incomparable assets that will give you and your business an edge. It’s important to make the most of everything your membership offers – these amenities can really help your business thrive!
This article was written by startupsoflondon.com.
