Mobile office for digital nomad starts with your laptop, phone, and the dream of working from anywhere. But once you dive into the world of coworking spaces, it can feel a bit overwhelming.
Let’s chat through what you need to know to set up a killer mobile office in a coworking space.
First things first—keep it light. The beauty of a mobile office is that you can work with just the essentials. Your setup probably includes:
- Laptop (obviously),
- Portable charger (you don’t want to be tethered to the wall),
- Noise-canceling headphones (essential for focus in open-plan spaces),
- Notebook or tablet for quick notes.
Most coworking spaces provide the basics like desks, chairs, and WiFi, so you don’t have to worry about those. In fact, 98% of coworking spaces offer high-speed internet, which is great for digital nomads and freelancers alike.
Check Essential Gear for Digital Nomads: What You Really Need for Co-Working Spaces.
2. How do you choose the right coworking space?
Not all coworking spaces are created equal. When setting up your mobile office, it’s important to find a space that aligns with your work needs. Some questions to ask yourself:
- Do you need a quiet space or are you fine with background noise?
- How often will you need meeting rooms or private areas for calls?
- Are you staying for a day, a month, or longer?
According to the 2023 Global Coworking Survey, over 50% of people prioritize location and accessibility when choosing a coworking space. If you’re hopping from city to city, make sure you have a space that offers flexibility in memberships.
More info and details in Why Choosing the Right Co-Working Space Matters?
3. What’s the best way to handle security in a coworking space?
One of the most overlooked aspects of setting up a mobile office is security. In an open-plan coworking space, you’re surrounded by people you don’t know, so keeping your data safe is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Use a VPN to protect your internet connection. Many coworking spaces have public WiFi, which can be risky.
- Lock your laptop whenever you step away, even for a minute.
- Consider encrypting sensitive files.
According to research, about 40% of remote workers don’t take necessary security precautions when using public WiFi. Don’t be part of that statistic!
4. How do you organize your mobile workspace for productivity?
With a mobile office, organization is key. You won’t have the luxury of spreading out like you would at home or in a permanent office. Keep things tight:
- Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) to keep your files accessible.
- Set up virtual task management with tools like Asana or Trello.
- Carry portable cable organizers so you’re not digging through your bag for chargers.
Studies show that a well-organized workspace can boost productivity by 20%. In a coworking space, staying organized means you can move between locations without losing focus.
Check Why Boosting Productivity in Co-Working Spaces Outshines Working from Home?
5. How do you maintain focus in a shared space?
Coworking spaces are great for flexibility, but they can also get noisy or distracting. If you need deep focus, here are some hacks:
- Pick the right spot: Grab a desk near the wall or in a quiet corner.
- Use noise-canceling headphones (seriously, they’re a lifesaver).
- Take advantage of quiet zones or phone booths in coworking spaces—over 60% of coworking spaces offer these for privacy.
Also, look for coworking spaces that host fewer events if you prefer a quieter environment.
You can more in this article about How To Stay Focused in a Coworking Space?
6. How can you take advantage of coworking amenities?
One of the perks of coworking spaces is the range of amenities they offer. The essentials like WiFi, coffee, and meeting rooms are standard, but premium spaces can offer so much more:
- Printing services (about 70% of coworking spaces offer this).
- Event spaces and workshops.
- Fitness centers or showers in some high-end spaces.
In fact, about 35% of coworking members cite access to these extra facilities as a major benefit of membership. So, if you’re someone who enjoys perks, choosing the right space is key.
7. How much should you expect to pay for coworking?
Cost is always a factor, especially when you’re setting up a mobile office. The price of a coworking space can vary widely:
- Day passes: Usually $20–$50.
- Monthly hot desks: Range from $250–$500, depending on the city.
- Private offices: Typically cost between $600 and $1,200 per month.
It’s important to choose a coworking membership that aligns with your work style. If you only need a space a few times a week, a part-time membership might be the most cost-effective.
8. What should you look for in coworking space policies?
Before you commit to a coworking space, check the fine print. Some questions you should ask:
- Are meeting rooms included, or do they cost extra?
- What’s the cancellation policy? Most coworking spaces offer flexible month-to-month contracts, but not all.
- Are there any hidden fees for printing, parking, or additional guests?
Surveys show that around 45% of people choose coworking spaces based on flexibility in policies, so make sure you read the terms before signing up.
9. How does networking work in a coworking space?
Networking is one of the biggest benefits of coworking spaces. You’re surrounded by entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers from various industries.
According to a 2022 report, 79% of coworkers say that coworking helps expand their professional networks.
Many coworking spaces host events, workshops, and even social hours to help you meet new people. If you’re looking to grow your connections or find collaborators, coworking can be a goldmine.
10. What’s the best way to balance work and social life in a coworking space?
It’s easy to get caught up in the energy of a coworking space. But how do you balance networking with actually getting work done? Here are some tips:
- Set work hours and stick to them.
- Use breakout spaces for socializing but head back to a quiet desk when it’s time to focus.
- Schedule networking: Take advantage of social events and happy hours hosted by the space.
Check Why Is Work-Life Separation Easier to Achieve in a Co-Working Space?