Is co-working the future?
“If it takes a village to raise a child, then maybe it takes a co-working space to raise a startup”
Anonymous
With the rise of entrepreneurship in our city, the need for shared workspaces is on the rise. Although working from home allows homely comfort, there are some limitations. One is the need for a structure in place to help in maintaining a continual work-life balance.
A co-working space does that as it exposes one to a world of like-minded and not so like-minded individuals with various possibilities even the likelihood of starting a project with one of these individuals. I know, and I have. So much can be birthed when people connect, and a co-working space is very often a catalyst for these connections. So if you are tired of the monotony of working from home, you should consider the idea of using a co-working space. You can thank me later. Some of the benefits of using a co-working space are:
Reduced overhead costs
For new startups, keeping overhead costs low is essential. Using a co-working space reduces the cost of rent, data, electricity, and other maintenance costs that will help you save money in the long run.
Networking
Co-working spaces expose you to opportunity and talent. Working in isolation can on occasion be lonely. A lot can happen when a conversation is started, and working in proximity to others can facilitate such conversations. Co-working spaces also provide unique networking opportunities for entrepreneurs to associate and network with others from diverse fields. Co-workers can also provide referrals that may aid revenue increase.
Boost in creativity and shared ideas
Glitches can be occasionally faced while working in isolation. Thereby working in a shared space can provide access to professionals who can help to work through problems and by sharing perspectives, ignite creative bursts.
Greater Flexibility
Co-working spaces offer flexible pricing and membership terms, you can choose to cancel your membership at any point in time for whatever reason you may have without any hassle.
Here are a few co-working spaces in Port Harcourt that can cater to entrepreneurs or growing startups:
KoWork
Located at Deborah Lawson House, Sani Abacha Road, New GRA. KoWorkNg is a co-working space with a warm, friendly, and hospitable environment. They provide conference rooms, private offices, and shared spaces.
Website: KoWork
Olotu Square
Located at Khana Street, D/Line, Port Harcourt Olotu Square is a coworking space and Tech Hub that gives you access to smart problem solvers, a fluid workspace, and an agile community of the most vibrant tech enthusiasts and experts.
Website: Olotu Square
Hub10
Located at 5 Chief Ehule Lane, Off Ada-George Road, Port Harcourt. Hub10 is a warm and homely co-working space that provides office-like amenities such as hot-desks, private meeting rooms, a kitchen, and coffee.
Website: Hub10
Atic Pro
Located at Abuloma Port Harcourt, this workspace is home to a digital skills academy, a photo and video studio (Atic Pro Photography), and a music production studio. All these make it an ideal environment for creatives who can find one talent from one section to function or feed another section with their skills.
Speaking from experience, using a co-working space is a decision that will leave you with no regrets. I wish you the best of luck as you embark on this exciting journey.
