It is the new generation of digital natives who are upending the power structure in the workplace by forging their own paths and securing their own futures for themselves. Coworking spaces and internet cafe that offer high-speed Wi-Fi and good coffee are following in the footsteps of today’s new-age entrepreneurs.
But despite the blurring of the borders between internet cafe and coworking spaces, there are still significant advantages and disadvantages that could influence your decision to set up in a certain location.
Coworking Spaces vs. internet cafe
People who want to start their own businesses or work as freelancers might use coworking spaces to do it. When a freelancer says, “I’m going to work,” they’re more likely to stick to their schedule and get things done.
You can have access to a wide range of services at low prices, and the atmosphere keeps you motivated.
As a result of the high-end facilities and elegant settings, coworking spaces are experiencing a surge in popularity among entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Similarly to coworking spaces, internet cafe are known as a Workspace because of their aesthetically pleasant appearances. They can be found in large numbers at internet cafe seeking their daily dosage of caffeine and deadlines. Those who want to work while listening to ambient noise and smelling their coffee are drawn to internet cafe because of their laid-back, yet professional, ambience. There’s a internet cafe on nearly every corner, making it easy to find one.
To help you make an informed decision about whether to join a coworking space, here are the advantages and disadvantages:
Costs
Some people may be put off by the initial costs of renting a desk in a coworking space, but the long-term advantages far outweigh any inconvenience. Many coworking spaces offer a comfortable work environment and are open around the clock, making them an attractive option for freelancers and other professionals. Other advantages include access to printers, conference rooms, phone booths, and networking possibilities, among others.
Even though internet cafe first look like a cheaper option, the cost-per-day piles up over time and proves to be rather wasteful. Working at a internet cafe doesn’t always guarantee that you’ll be able to sit down at the table of your choosing. This talkative atmosphere you enjoy may really interfere with the audio when you have to meet a client or do a video conference.
Seating Possibilities
Workspaces provided by a coworking space should be tailored to suit your needs. A coworking space has a seat for everyone, whether you prefer hot-desking or need a dedicated desk or cabin. Your working hours are up to you once you get a place at the table. Coworking spaces can accommodate a bigger number of people to work on their project by signing them up as visitors.
If you frequent internet cafe, you’re more than likely to have your preferred seat taken away from you because the staff isn’t required to make a reservation. There are also time limits that limit your ability to work outside those hours. There is also the issue of having difficulty regularly accommodating larger gatherings, which could be an obstacle for new businesses looking to grow.
Amenities
Coworking spaces offer a wide range of commodities to their members. Meetings with clients or investors need the use of a well-appointed conference room, which is standard in most workplaces. There are also refreshments and beverages available during the day. The most important component in attracting new firms is having a solid infrastructure, which includes IT specialists and troubleshooting teams to keep things running smoothly.
Free Wi-Fi, freshly brewed coffee, and the ability to find them with a simple “Cafes near me” search are just some of the perks that most internet cafe have to offer. When many individuals are connected to the same Wi-Fi, the cafes with Wi-Fi can lose their appeal. Because internet cafe also cater to the “here for the coffee” audience, they are unable to create distinct work areas for freelancers and remote employees.
Acoustics
In coworking spaces, there is always a buzz, but not in the same manner as in other public places. In many coworking spaces, workers can take and make calls in private areas that are either sound-proofed or blocked off. Confidential meetings can be held in complete privacy in their conference rooms.
On the other side, internet cafe do not fare well in this regard. People conversing, orders ringing in, phones buzzing, and music blaring are just some common sources of distraction in a regular internet cafe. If you’re not careful, you may find yourself hearing on a conversation taking place at a table next to yours for a long time. As a result of choosing to work in a noisy environment, crucial phone calls can be disrupted and frustration and confusion can ensue.
Networking
Coworking spaces are well-known for providing workers with access to a wide group of colleagues. Networking events, such as book signings, business lecture sessions, and even galas and mixers, are frequently hosted by them. Having informal conversations with strangers in these contexts is a great way to expand your horizons and gain new insights that you can include into your business strategies. When it comes to finding business partners, investors, and personnel who can assist you in your endeavors, you may just get lucky.
Internet cafe socializing isn’t usually about exchanging business information. Most of the individuals you’ll run into are merely passing through, enjoying a cup of coffee on their way to somewhere else. They are likely to have a really lighthearted conversation with you. Internet cafe chats are more likely to be viewed as a way to take a break from a tough workload than an opportunity to discover new business chances.
In the end, whether you choose an internet cafe or a coworking space relies on your working style and the quantity of tasks you have to complete. A coworking space is a great option if you’re looking to get innovative or tough jobs completed in a jiffy. Take use of the free coffee and other amenities offered by a coworking space near you as a trial run before committing to an all-day membership at a more expensive location.
