As a brand new space catalyst, I am riding the highs and lows of the early process. When I began fleshing out the idea of starting a coworking community in my town, my mind was buzzing with the excitement a new project brings. I envisioned the utopian community, the modern and functional workspace, and the throngs of interesting people who would want to be a part of it all. And of course, in this Hollywood-esque reverie, everything falls magically into place. The community forms itself. The ideal coworking space (situated on the best block of downtown) effortlessly falls into my lap. Funding flows freely, and there are no proverbial “bumps in the road.”
Then, the actualization process begins. Queue the squealing brakes.
As there is not a set standard for what makes a successful coworking space, I found myself absolutely inundated with information…and questions. So many questions. Where do I begin? Will people join? Is my town ready for this? How much is this going to cost? You get the picture. So, instead of trying to sort through it alone, I sought wise council and joined the closest coworking community to me.
My best advice to anyone who is thinking of starting a coworking space is a.)hire a professional, and b.)find a space that you would like to mirror (and hang out there.) Consulting with a successful space owner is the best investment, of my time and money, I have made thus far. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience being poured into me with every meeting. My incredible consultant has helped me form a plan, find a starting point in the process, and-most importantly- informed me what holes not to step in. I have made new contacts, been informed of resources that I never knew existed, and given homework to complete throughout the week. There is nothing, but nothing bad about getting the beef from someone who has been through the process of starting a coworking community and made it work.
I’m still in the process. I still have my sights on that dreamy vision of the perfect coworking community, but now I have a plan to get there. And with the help of a person (dare I say…new friend) who has paved the way before me, it just might all come together some sweet day soon.
