Over the past couple of years, coworking spaces in Manila have proven to be cost-efficient, especially now that most startups, small to medium companies, or freelance businesses are switching to flexible work arrangements.
However, if you want to make a switch to a coworking space as well, strategic preparation and planning are necessary to guarantee a seamless transition. For this blog, we will be listing the key steps and preparations that startups need to do first to make that move successful.
Identify Your Startup’s Needs
Consider all your business needs first, in terms of team size, resources, and operations management. List them all down, from how many desks and chairs to rent to how many storage rooms you need. Defining these first will enable you to narrow down your options and target a coworking space that meets your requirements.
Establish Clear Goals for Using a Coworking Space
Before moving, ask yourself why you want to do it. Are you moving to accommodate more staff? Or do you want to be near your potential clients? Whether it’s for business growth or an improved working environment, defining your objectives will help you select the right workspace for your startup and allow you to maximize the services and amenities provided in the office.
Prepare Your Team for the Transition
Transitioning to a coworking space will impact your entire business, but your employees will be affected the most. Preparing them for the change is necessary to ensure a smooth adjustment. Here are steps you can take to equip them before the transition.
Inform your team early about the move, possibly during the planning stage. Asking for their opinions and suggestions can be a big help for you in deciding where to move. While you are in the process of searching for a coworking space, make sure to establish clear communication and give them updates regularly. This will help them to anticipate future changes and avoid shock and uncertainty.
Once you have decided, share the details of the coworking space as soon as possible. Share the location, the reasons, and even the amenities and services that they can use. Inform your staff of the nearest transportation hubs or the other modes of transportation that they can use and if a parking space is available.
Coworking spaces have varying rules and regulations. That is why creating a new set of office protocols aligned with the new workspace is a must. Outline everything, including the food and drink policies, the health and safety regulations, the reservation system, the waste regulation, and the proper use of shared spaces. Familiarizing them with these protocols ahead of time will prevent confusion and miscommunication.
Organize Your Tools and Technology
Setting up your system before moving requires preparations. With the help of technicians, begin by assessing your present software and tools. Identifying if there is a need for upgrading or replacing your cloud systems, communications platforms, and project management tools can prevent future disruptions.
Coordinate with your entire team as well and ask them to verify if the platforms that they use in their day-to-day business are working well. Once the assessment is finished, have your tech support team ensure that all the technology can function seamlessly in the new coworking space. All these preparations will make your operation both productive and efficient.
Select the Right Coworking Space
Finding a suitable coworking space will benefit you over time. Here are some factors you must consider when selecting the right workspace.
● Budget – Determine your financial capacity, not just for this year but for the years to come. This will help you estimate your rent budget and assess if you can manage your finances effectively in case of a sudden expense or surprise increase.
● Location – When it comes to choosing your location, prioritize convenience and accessibility. Look for a coworking space that will reduce your travel time to your office and your clients. Your team will also appreciate it if you pick a workspace in business hubs near public transportation such as bus terminals, rail stations, and major roads for an easier commute.
● Networking Opportunities – A good location has a vibrant community that offers network opportunities and fosters collaborations with industry peers. Select a coworking space with an environment that encourages creativity, productivity, and connection-building through conventions, workshops, and roundtable events. These can provide exposure to your startup and enhance your team’s skills. Coworking spaces in business hubs in Manila can offer these benefits.
● Amenities – The most common amenities included in coworking spaces are meeting rooms, office furniture, and internet connection. But aside from these, know if there are any other amenities or facilities that you need. If security is a priority, choose a coworking space with surveillance cameras and strict access controls. If you want a place for relaxation, select an office that has a break room or a lounge area. Scoring a workspace with your desired amenities can add value to your office and can make your rent worth its price.
● Flexibility – Having flexibility in your membership brings ample advantages to your business. It is one of the biggest benefits of coworking spaces, especially in Manila. Keep your plans in mind, whether your startup intends to scale up or switch to a hybrid setup. Membership flexibility will give you the freedom to adjust your coworking space according to your needs and goals.
Transitioning to a coworking space can be a big but positive change. Preparing before moving will significantly help your startup improve in different aspects. Always consider your needs, your people, your goals, and your capacity to handle this transition concerning your finances and operations. When planning your move, think ahead to ensure your decision is aligned with your objectives.
If you are a startup or an established business looking for a coworking space in Manila, let M Spaces provide your office needs. Offering flexible plans, equipped facilities, and a dynamic community fit for experienced and emerging entrepreneurs,
M Spaces is the ideal coworking space for you. For startups, M Spaces has micro-offices that can seat 4 to 5 people comfortably. There are also medium to mega offices that can seat up to 12 people.
Affordable and convenient, M Spaces makes a great workspace as it provides a multitude of amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, biometric access, clean, private restrooms, and a spacious pantry, among others. Choosing to move to our coworking spaces in Ortigas Center will give you easy access to MRT stations, bus stops, and the largest companies in Metro Manila.
Want to know more about our lease options and workspaces? Check out our Facebook and Instagram or contact us today. For more details or to reserve your space, call (+63) 917-543-9349 or (+632) 5328-5300 or visit our website at www. mspacesph.com.
