coworking | Alliance Virtual Offices https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog Alliance Virtual Offices Blog Fri, 29 Sep 2023 18:48:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/cropped-avo-icon-3-32x32.png coworking | Alliance Virtual Offices https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog 32 32 Creative Marketing Ideas: Surprising Benefits and Inspiration for your Remote Business https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/creative-marketing-ideas/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 12:23:00 +0000 https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/?p=24085 How to prioritize creative marketing. Some examples of creative marketing include murals and unique social media campaigns. You can find your own creative marketing ideas by identifying your target audience and considering what they would consider creative.

The post Creative Marketing Ideas: Surprising Benefits and Inspiration for your Remote Business first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>

Q: Why are creative marketing ideas important for your remote business?

A: Creative marketing ideas help drive interest and attract customers in a new way that traditional marketing strategies often do not. 


Creative marketing ideas are an absolute key to making your business successful. Traditional marketing is just not cutting it anymore, and customers are looking for more engaging and dynamic ways to participate in the marketplace.

There are plenty of examples out there to show just how creative marketing can be. 

Get Your FREE Guide Today!

How to Create Super Converting Blog Posts

However, not all of us are born creatives. We need the inspiration to create a successful campaign using creative marketing ideas. 

Here we will discuss the benefits of creative marketing and give you some creative marketing ideas to try. With this information, you’ll learn to harness your creative marketing ideas to help your established remote business soar.



Why are creative marketing ideas beneficial for business?

Creative marketing is taking the world by storm. More and more businesses are turning to the virtual world to engage in commerce or host meetings. 

Creative marketing is beneficial because it catches your consumer where they least expect it. It brings attention to your business and can create meaningful relationships with your consumer base. 

CNBC describes creative marketing as the “new frontier of marketing.” Brands are increasingly expected to shift and meet the new demands of their consumers.

According to Pew Research, the monthly visitor count to online platforms is only rising.  Online news sites experienced an 11% increase in online visitors in 2020.

What does this data imply? It implies that there is increasingly more room for creative ways to market online. 

In this increasingly online world, consumer expectations are changing to meet the new emerging standard. People want more engaged and personalized products and services. 

A whole new world of potential is opening up. The consumer is looking to be treated as an individual. In the online world, this is more possible than before with brick-and-mortar stores. 

People have grown tired of traditional advertising mediums. People feel jaded, as though they have already seen it all and want to be wowed.

Gone are the days of advertising in print through the local newspaper. People simply are not paying attention to those platforms anymore.

Now!

Creative marketing is vital if you are creating a new product launch. You will want to get your product off of the ground while working on building a long-standing relationship with your consumer base. 

What does creative marketing include? Creative marketing can include anything from murals to memes. The whole point of creative marketing is to push the boundaries and experiment. 

Are you looking to connect with your audience in a more meaningful way? 

If you want to truly connect with your audience – the kind of connection you need to make a sale – you need to stand out with your creative marketing strategies. 

Creative marketing approaches allow you to accomplish just this. You can better connect with your consumer base and make more sales through creative marketing.  

But you are probably wondering: 

What are creative marketing ideas for 2022? 


Examples of creative marketing ideas

Now that you know why creative marketing is worthwhile, you might be curious to discover ways to improve your marketing strategy or marketing campaign. 

This can be thought of simply: 

According to Forbes, brands must take creative risks to stand out.

Many creative marketing ideas are already out there and yet to be imagined.

But what if you’ve hit a brick wall in your creative process and cannot think of more ideas? 

We are here to help. 

Creative marketing looks different from industry to industry. It is crucial to consider the niche in which you will need creative marketing ideas. 

A smaller business could get away with more gorilla tactics. In comparison, a larger business would need to play by more formal rules. 

What type of industry will you need creative ideas for? A creative marketing idea for banks will look different than a creative marketing idea for small businesses.

Let’s dive into tangible creative marketing ideas that you can use. 

Urban Marketing

Get creative with your surroundings and use them in your creative marketing campaigns. Consider local landmarks or everyday city objects that you can use to spark creativity and interest. 

A great example of creative urban marketing is using a storm drain to advertise barbeque grills. Now that catches your attention

Ask yourself: 

What are some specific marketing ideas that you can use in your local community? 

Is there something in your community that is overlooked every day that could be used in a creative way to promote your business? 

Mural or Piece of Art 

A great example of a creative marketing idea is creating a highly-postable mural or piece of art and placing it somewhere people can see it. 

For example, a brand might commission a large, visually exciting mural. People will see the mural and post it to their social media feeds, helping the brand connect with people in a new way. This type of organic sharing helps your business reach new people in a less aggressive format than traditional advertising. 

This is a trendy idea for creative marketing for banks with the capital to invest in a large-scale art project.

This type of creative marketing supports your business as well as a local artist. It also adds beauty to your community and has the potential to inspire creativity in others.  

Using a mural or a piece of art is a solid idea if you are looking for a great way to catch people’s attention in a meaningful way. 

However, be sure you obtain the proper permissions from your city so your business does not run into any legal problems.

Sidewalk Chalk

You could still choose to liven up your local block with some color through sidewalk chalk. 

Sidewalk chalk is a catchy alternative to posters and flyers that is so creative that it just might catch the eye of a possible new customer. 

After creating your sidewalk advertisement, you could even consider leaving the chalk outside of your business for people to play with on their own. This will engage the customers with your business and increase their likelihood of remembering it. 

Unusual Sponsorships 

Consider sponsoring something slightly unusual that will make consumers turn their heads. 

A well-known example is Citi Bank sponsoring city bikes and calling them “CitiBikes.” 

Another lesser-known example is the donut company Krispy Kreme hosting and sponsoring a series of 5k running events. A donut company sponsoring an exercise event is sure to turn some heads. 

Contest Marketing 

Perhaps you are still left wondering: 

How exactly do you attract customers? 

One of the best ways to attract customers is to market to them in subtle, unexpected ways. Rather than use traditional marketing avenues, create content or events that draw the customers to your organically. 

Contest marketing accomplishes just this. 

That being said, you might also need to create marketing to promote your contest. 

Sponsor an unusual contest 

An example of a creative marketing idea is to sponsor an unusual event. 

For instance, if a bank sponsors a hotdog eating contest, people will probably take note. This is a creative way to infuse comedy and personality into your marketing campaign.

Photo Contest

Another great idea for creative marketing is running a photo contest with your product. It is a wonderful way to engage people online while promoting your product content.  

Video Contest

You could also consider a video contest.

Although not as many people would enter a video contest vs. a photo contest, they would have to put in more effort. This extra effort would make them more invested in your brand. Not only would you be reaching a possible new consumer, but you would also be reaching the entire following of that consumer. 

Caption Contest

Post a photo and invite users to submit a caption for the photo. This strategy allows users to engage with your content, and you might end up with some pretty funny results. 

Email Campaign

Another great example is running a conversational, informative, supportive email campaign. Rather than using your email campaign to sell directly, you can use it to establish a connection with your audience and position your brand as a friend.

It’s also a great chance to make your business feel more personal. You can include a picture of yourself and the business address to provide a sense of closeness and personality.

However, email campaigns take a lot of time and effort that many businesses cannot afford to do themselves. 

Thankfully, Alliance Virtual Offices can help you accomplish a spectacular email campaign through their virtual office services. 

All of these are just ideas, however. The joy of creative marketing is that many ideas are yet to be born. 

With these tools, you can create ideas for creative marketing for your specific business.


Social Media Marketing

According to the Pew Research Center, digital advertising continues to grow exponentially, driven by growth in advertising on mobile devices. 

The key with content marketing is that you will want to create marketing that incorporates your product or service while not appearing too much like an advertisement. 

There are creative ways to get your consumers hooked on your content without seeming too much like a solicitor. 

Find things your audience is interested in, give them the content of interest, and have a call to action at the end of the content that refers them to your product or service. This way, your audience is gaining something by viewing your content.

If one of your lingering questions is how to engage in creative marketing with no money- this section is for you. 

Using social media marketing for your brand is easily one of the most effective free forms of marketing. Creating engaging content can attract your target market without paying dime.

The consumer wants more than just content, however. They are looking for real creativity to lure them in. 

You might be wondering: 

What are some specific ways to make creative content online? 

Guest posts

Guest posts are a great idea to catch your target audience’s attention creatively. Guest posts help to humanize your product or service. 

You could showcase some customers already using the product or service willing to provide a review. If you could convince an industry start to be your guest poster – even better. 

Post about industry hot topics 

A popular way to build traction is to use topics already trending in the marketplace.

Ask yourself: 

How can you use relevant and trending topics in your industry to your product or service advantage? 

Perhaps join in on trending hashtags or national food days that the internet loves to celebrate. By joining arms with consumers by following what is popular on the internet, you are closing the gap between the buyer and the business. 

Instagram Stories

Instagram stories are the perfect way to flex your creativity since they are only up for 24 hours. 

Trying something new? Why not try it out on Instagram stories? 

The app allows you to add stickers and filters to flex your creativity even more so than before. 

You can post spontaneously without worrying about perfection. Additionally, it allows for some transparency within your business to further connect with the consumer.  

Videos

A popular way to use social media marketing creatively isby creating videos. Lots of people are posting pictures of products, but have you considered using video to make your product or service come alive?

There are so many creative filters and video editing techniques that can be used in such creative ways. 

The world of social media marketing moves extremely fast, and it is important to stay up to date. You will want to diversify the platforms you are posting on and post consistently across all of them. 

But here’s the kicker: 

Social media marketing is a form of social proof. 

It says – “Hey, look at all of these people that engage with my product. You should too”. 

People do not flock to just everyday things, however. This is why having a creative strategy within your marketing campaigns is vital.

Watch your competitors 

If you engage in social media marketing, staying on top of your competitors is essential. You won’t want to miss a trend in the marketplace that would allow you to implement some of your creative marketing ideas.

Thankfully, platforms such as Facebook give you the ability to do this. You can follow your competitors and see the content receiving the most views and engagements. 

For example, suppose you are looking for creative marketing ideas for real estate. In that case, you could check out the area’s top accounts of real estate agents.  


Read more: The Complete Guide to Influencer Marketing for Small Business


How to come up with creative marketing ideas

How does one think of their own creative marketing ideas? 

Well, keep in mind your primary goal. Your primary goal is to stand out from the competition with the uniqueness of your creative marketing ideas. 

The first step to making creative marketing ideas is determining your target audience. Creative marketing ideas for a bank will look a lot different than creative marketing ideas for a nonprofit organization. 

Start by asking yourself the following questions: 

Who are you trying to reach? With what platforms are you trying to engage?

Identify what these people like and where they spend their free time. After determining this, come up with a unique way to appeal to them. 

If you are trying to target an audience concerned with health and lifestyle, you might not want to advertise next to a fast food chain. 

It could be compared to a seed needing exactly the right environmental conditions to experience maximum growth.

A younger audience may be more engaged on a platform such as TikTok, while an older audience would be more engaged on a platform such as Facebook. The first key step is to determine your people.

Once you know what people you are targeting, consider their values. What is close to their heart? 

Are these people hardworking professionals? If so, a conversational, informative tone is a good idea. 

On the other hand, if your audience is meme enthusiasts, you might consider a more comedic approach. 

By using creative marketing ideas, you can pull on the audience’s specific values. You can then leverage those unique values in a new, unexpected way. 

Finally, consider how you want to position your brand. What about your unique marketing approach that is going to draw people in? 

What’s the bottom line? 

A marketing strategy that works well for one group might not necessarily land for a different group of people. It is the role of the marketing campaign to specifically target who they think will be most likely to buy their product. 

Creative Marketing Ideas are the Future

Simply put, people are tired of seeing the same old marketing tactics day after day. 

Traditional marketing approaches have grown significantly less effective as people have become used to them.

It’s like when you put something new in your home. At first, a new thing stands out to you every day. However, after a few weeks of it staying the same, you hardly notice that it is even there. 


Further Reading


The same thing goes for marketing. You need to engage in creative marketing if you want your service or product to be noticed. 

Consider your audience and tailor your marketing to meet their interests and values. By considering your position, you can create new and exciting marketing campaigns that will boost your revenue. 

Aligning creativity with marketing strategy helps businesses build strong and foundational customer relationships. 

Traditional marketing is done. Creative marketing is the future. 

While you get creative in your marketing, let us take care of the more mundane parts of the business. With a virtual office plan from Alliance Virtual Offices, you can enjoy having a virtual office address, mail forwarding services, access to meeting rooms, extra office space, and virtual live receptionist services. 

Alliance Virtual Offices will leave you with extra creative space so that you can focus on your campaign.

The post Creative Marketing Ideas: Surprising Benefits and Inspiration for your Remote Business first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
Going Remote? Don’t Ignore These Crucial Work From Home Tools https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/work-from-home-tools/ Mon, 08 Aug 2022 11:57:00 +0000 https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/?p=19389 Working from home can help entrepreneurs manage their time, finances, and subjective well-being. If you’re looking to transition to remote work, make sure you have a good digital communication platform and register with a virtual office.

The post Going Remote? Don’t Ignore These Crucial Work From Home Tools first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>

Q: What are the most useful tools for working from home? 

A: While the best work from home tools are largely business-specific, comfortable office furniture, a workflow management system, communication applications, and a virtual office are some of the best tools available for any entrepreneur.  


The digital transition accelerated by the pandemic is upon us. 

More and more individuals are leaving their office jobs to work from home or start their own businesses. 

This transition, while not unexpected, is a lot to wrap your head around. 

Many entrepreneurs are discovering the benefits of working remotely and hoping to make the move smoothly. Thankfully, we’ve got plenty of work-from-home tools that will make this transition considerably easier. 

Not only is running a business from home far cheaper than renting an office space, but the freedom that comes with working remotely is unrivaled. With the right attitude and the best work-from-home tools, running a business from home is a perfect way to determine your niche, grow your business, and increase profit margins. 

Thanks to the sheer volume of individuals making this transition, the market for work-from-home tools is booming. As an entrepreneur, you’ll almost certainly find hardware and software beneficial to your situation, no matter how specific. 

Below, we’ll explain why the transition to remote working is beneficial, some of the common pitfalls associated with working from home, and how to find the best work-from-home tools that can strengthen your business. 

Keep reading to understand why so many people are making the switch to remote work! 



Why is working from home so beneficial to entrepreneurs? 

A large part of being an entrepreneur is the desire to work for yourself and the desire to grow your business on your terms. 

Working from home gives an entrepreneur this peace of mind. By working remotely, you can focus on expanding your business online without worrying about managing your physical space. 

By utilizing the proper work-from-home tools, you can make your home into an office of your own. If you make these decisions with conviction, this utilization and a dedicated work area can remove a good deal of worry from your daily life. 

Remote work also allows you to make better use of your time. When you’re working in an office you might be worried about juggling: 

  • Commuting 
  • Dealing with distracting coworkers 
  • Limited scheduling capabilities 
  • High office rental costs 

If you’re an individual that works better in the evening, then the 9-to-5 office hours won’t let you produce your best work, and you might not be able to keep the office open late enough to be conducive.  

Working from home allows you to set your schedule, meaning that you can work as late – or early – as you please. 

Schedule creation and deciding your hours go a long way. When you’re stuck in an office and working during hours you feel less effective, motivation can be hard to come by. 


Read more: A pay freeze vs returning to office: Workers equally hate both options 


Working remotely also saves money, which is critical for business growth during an era of record-high inflation.  

You don’t have to rent an expensive office during hours that might not even be productive to your business, you save money on gas by not commuting to work, and you’re even able to use your home office as a tax write-off. 

Finally, although saving money and keeping odd hours is nice, the biggest benefit of running a business is freedom.  

Your business is your business.  

With remote working, you don’t have to worry about: 

  • The real estate giant you’re renting from 
  • Other businesses that are operating out of the same space 
  • Injecting money into areas of the business that are not working 

Despite the countless benefits linked to working from home, the transition can be difficult. Continue reading to see some of the pitfalls commonly associated with remote work and how to avoid them. 


How to make transitioning to remote work easier 

While the freedom that comes with working from home is a huge benefit, it can also be overwhelming for some.  

Individuals that have been working in an office for the better part of their lives might be prone to more issues than others during this transition as well. 

Fortunately, the shift to remote work is largely mental. Work from home tools are not too difficult to figure out – it’s simply a matter of creating routines and sticking with them to increase productivity. 

Online Calendars 

One of the biggest mistakes made by new remote workers is not setting a concrete schedule. Something as simple as Google Calendar can be one of the most effective work-from-home tools. 

The idea is to create a routine with your work. If you’re haphazardly trying to complete tasks with no real idea when you started and finished work, it’s far easier to get distracted. 


Read more: 9 Ways To Easily Transition To Working From Home 


In traditional offices, distractions are usually external forces such as coworkers or unrealistic workloads. In the home office, distractions are generally internal and can still impact the workday. 

To combat this, you can use any kind of calendar to force yourself into a routine until it becomes habitual. This will prevent you from wandering off mentally, which is easy to do when you’ve been at the computer for hours without standing up or looking outside.  

It’s easy to overdo it in a remote working setting, but it’s also equally easy to underdo it. That is why it is critical to create a workday routine – and stick to it. 

Communication Apps 

Outside of using a calendar to create routines, communication apps are an essential work-from-home productivity tool that you’ll need to familiarize yourself with. 

Microsoft Teams 

One of the most popular communication platforms, Microsoft Teams is probably the easiest on this list to figure out and is included for Microsoft 365 users.  

Teams excels in the communication department, allowing you to easily video call, voice call, or instant message colleagues. The robust chat options and multiple add-ons make it an easy way to discuss projects and contact team members. 

Perhaps one of the biggest benefits that come with Microsoft products is the convenience of having all of its apps in the same central location. 

Zoom 

Used by almost everyone during the pandemic, Zoom is another work-from-home communications tool that all entrepreneurs should familiarize themselves with.  

Zoom allows users the option to create large rooms that can connect numerous people to the same call, which comes in handy when you’re trying to hold conferences with or bring together team members that may be in different parts of the world. 

Another benefit of Zoom is the sliding scale with which you can pay for services. 

Technically, you can use Zoom free of charge, but if you’re building your business, you’ll likely start paying for a subscription. Zoom has multiple different tiers of paid plans, so your Zoom subscription can scale with your business. 


Read more: As telework continues for many U.S. workers, no sign of widespread ‘Zoom fatigue’ 


Slack  

Slack claims to have more security than traditional email, while also providing the ability to break chats up by topic, making it a must-have for any remote working entrepreneur juggling various projects.  

Paired with the connect feature that allows you to contact individuals from teams outside of your own, Slack is a great tool once you’ve got a grasp on how to use it. 

Additionally, Slack has a workflow builder that allows you to automate menial tasks. By automating certain tasks, you’re able to focus on growing your business. 

Proper utilization of these apps can potentially replace in-person client meetings in several cases.  

Sure, there might be specific instances where you’d like to rent a meeting room, but adopting these applications gives you more flexibility and agility in how you conduct business. 

Virtual Office Registration 

Finally, registering your business with a virtual office can make your transition to working from home seamless.  

Doing so protects your privacy, as your virtual office address will be available to the public rather than your home address. Plus, a virtual office still allows you to receive mail straight to your home without fear of your personal address becoming public. 

Outside of the benefits of privacy, registering with a virtual office gives your business a physical address that adds an air of legitimacy to your operations. A big part of being successful in working from home, especially when you’re running a business, is legitimacy. 

As with all periods of change, transitioning to remote work requires self-discipline and an understanding of work-from-home tools. If you’re able to come to a decent understanding of all aspects of remote working, then the whole transition will be far smoother. 

That said, let’s discuss some of the best work-from-home tools that will make your remote work journey as comfortable as possible. 


What are the best work-from-home tools? 

When discussing work-from-home tools, it’s important to identify both hardware and software that can make your workday run as seamlessly as possible. 

For now, we’ll go through some of the best hardware for remote work, and then we’ll examine some of the software that you should familiarize yourself with. 

Hardware  

First, investing in a good desk is something many individuals tend to overlook.  

On the surface, this may seem like a negligible aspect of the office, but having a desk that is comfortable to stand or sit at will make your time in front of a screen considerably more bearable. 

In addition to a suitable desk, it’s wise to get a comfortable chair as well. Even if you’ve opted for a standing desk, you may still be sitting a lot. As a result, it’s essential to have an ergonomic chair that supports good posture for your overall health. 

These investments might seem fruitless or even unnecessary, but creating a well-ordered and aesthetically pleasing home office will allow you to feel relaxed and truly focused during your workday.  

For the technical hardware, it truly depends on the kind of remote work you’re doing. Additional monitors can be good work from home tools, but if you’re not doing graphic design or other detail-oriented work, it can be a bit unnecessary. 

Once you’ve created a comfortable home office, you’re ready to start familiarizing yourself with the software side of things. 

Software 

To start, investing in a workflow management system will make remote work more optimal. 

There are several different kinds of communication-based and workflow management work from home office tools. While you don’t need to become an expert on all of them, you should pick software that you can understand and utilize to grow your business. 

For starters, consider checking out Asana, a communication and workflow management application that makes organizing your to-do lists a breeze. 

The majority of your software decisions will depend on the type of business you’re trying to run. For instance, a consulting business will have different software needs compared to an online retailer. 

Regardless of what kind of business you’re trying to run, the communication apps listed above, Asana, and the Microsoft Office 365 Suite are all examples of tools every entrepreneur working from home should familiarize themselves with. 

Independent of general hardware and software requirements, here are some more work-from-home tools that can help take your remote work to the next level. 

Virtual Receptionist 

Adding a virtual receptionist to your business is never a bad idea. A constant stream of incoming phone calls is a distraction that can be hard to contend with. 

On the one hand, constant phone calls mean your business is likely growing. 

On the other hand, trying to multitask important calls is a quick way to lose professionalism and potentially rub first-time callers the wrong way. 

With a virtual receptionist, you can focus on other aspects of your business while a friendly, professional voice answers the phone.  

A bonus of using a virtual receptionist is the ability to work from anywhere. You don’t have to be constantly worrying about whether you’ve missed calls or lost cell service, which in turn makes traveling and working much easier. 

This will build legitimacy as potential clients will feel attended to. Plus, it’s much more inexpensive to hire a virtual receptionist compared to a part-time or full-time receptionist. 

Coworking Space 

Last but not least, depending on the kind of entrepreneur you are, a coworking space is a work-from-home tool that can do wonders for your productivity.  

If you’re the kind of person who feels isolated working from home, a coworking space could be used as a place to go a few days of the week solely to break up the monotony. 

After a while, working from home can get incredibly dull. Spending weeks at a time at home with little to no actual human interaction is terrible for the mind and the body, and sometimes a coworking space is what it takes to recalibrate your brain. 

The stress and isolation associated with working from home can be exhausting. 

While it sounds counterintuitive, once you’ve created a lasting routine, breaking it up by utilizing a coworking space every so often will put you face-to-face with other professionals in the same boat as you. 

Sometimes, being with other individuals dealing with the same remote work stress that you’re dealing with is a positive and can build camaraderie.  

Additionally, if you’re struggling to understand some of the various work-from-home tools, on-site staff are available during the day to provide support. 


Read more: Virtual Office vs Coworking: What You Need To Know When Choosing a Working Space 


If you’ve utilized a virtual receptionist and a virtual office, then a coworking space becomes far more attractive. A receptionist is answering your phones, the virtual office is forwarding your mail, and a coworking space is giving you the spark of creativity you desire. 

Alliance Virtual Offices offers coworking spaces, virtual receptionists, virtual offices, and a whole slew of other work-from-home tools that can help you reach your goals. 

Not only does Alliance Virtual Offices offer a virtual office for easy LLC incorporation, but they also provide Live Receptionist services to allow entrepreneurs the freedom to focus on the less menial aspects of running a business.  

Additionally, the coworking spaces available via Alliance Virtual Offices can help break up the monotony of remote work and give you a place to refresh and recharge. 

These work-from-home tools come in a variety of ways. The trick is to determine which tools are best for your business and familiarize yourself with them until they’re second nature. 


Work From Home Tools that Make Remote Life Easy 

The transition to remote work can be taxing, but the digital boom is here to stay.  

Entrepreneurs are in an exciting position where the ability to make the digital transition is largely a determining factor for the success of their businesses. 

Working from home can help entrepreneurs manage their time, finances, and subjective well-being. If you’re looking to transition to remote work, make sure you have an excellent digital communication platform and register with a virtual office. 

You can make working from home much better by investing in comfortable and aesthetically pleasing office furniture, adding a workflow management system, and utilizing a virtual receptionist. 

Socializing in a professional, more relaxed setting like a coworking space can also instill an extra spark of inspiration often needed when working from home. 

Work from home tools are plentiful, and no matter how you’re feeling or what you’re struggling with, there’s always a tool that can fix your problem – it’s just a matter of knowing how to use it. 

Similar to traditional business building, knowing how to react is a large part of your business’s success. Keep yourself healthy and focus on building. 


Further reading: 


Work from home tools can make all the difference in your overall work, but sometimes it’s nice to have some extra help. 

But remember you can never stop learning about work-from-home tools. 

There are simply too many options out there, and the more you learn, the easier that remote work becomes. If handled correctly, the profit margins associated with an entirely remote business that utilizes these various tools blow traditional margins out of the water. 

If you’re struggling to get started, if the transition is giving you more trouble than you expected, or if you just can’t figure out how to incorporate your business, contact us

Where your business is right now doesn’t matter, we’re ready to provide you with the work-from-home tools to make it a success. 

The post Going Remote? Don’t Ignore These Crucial Work From Home Tools first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
Coworking guide for entrepreneurs and freelancers https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/coworking-guide-for-entrepreneurs-and-freelancers/ Fri, 13 Sep 2019 20:29:01 +0000 http://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/?p=6023 How Can You Save Money with Coworking Space? How do you find the perfect coworking space to suit your needs, personality, and budget? Check out this quick list of Coworking Tips for Entrepreneurs and Freelancers.

The post Coworking guide for entrepreneurs and freelancers first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
The idea of working outside of a traditional office space is growing dramatically and it is because remote work seems to provide a number of benefits for all of the stakeholders involved. Metrics surrounding working remotely point to the idea that a flexible schedule and choice of work environment means improved work life balance for employees. In addition, remote work has led to higher productivity and financial incentives for companies. It also allows them to hire without location restrictions, giving them access to elite talent on a global scale.

Because working from home can be distracting, many people who work remotely turn to a coworking space. It allows you to connect with a work environment, while providing a number of services, without being prohibitively costly. Today, coworking is on the rise and it is estimated that by 2022 over 5 million people will have jobs that bring them, at least part of the time, to coworking spaces. 

Why use a coworking space as an entrepreneur or freelancer?

Many of those who participate in coworking are independent workers who are in the entrepreneurial or freelance space. This means that likely do not have the infrastructure of a corporation to foster their work placement, however, they still want a professional place to work.  And, while many entrepreneurs in the past have boasted about starting a company out of their garage, the reality of that is probably less romantic than they portray it to be. Coworking spaces mean that those that want to innovate no longer have to suffer through many of the sacrifices of personal space that come with working from home. 

Financial benefits

In particular, entrepreneurs have picked up on the trend of coworking because it connects specifically with their business needs. Often when beginning a business, capital is not readily on hand to build or rent traditional offices. After all, this usually requires signing a lease and putting down a deposit on office space — then it is often necessary to equip the offices with things like wifi and phones, and staff your offices with people to do tasks like housekeeping and IT. Coworking spaces offer these amenities as part of their low, and usually quite
flexible, membership dues. 



Location

Because it is possible to do work from anywhere and source coworkers from anywhere, you can significantly lower the costs of doing business (and of living). While space in New York City or Silicon Valley can be astronomical, remote work allows for looking to more economical options while creating a new company and cultivating a larger business plan. In fact, remote work is becoming so popular that small to medium companies might never want to waste time and energy in creating a larger more traditional office space for employees. 

Amenities

Coworking spaces have many amenities built in as part of a low membership fee and then can provide for further needs for additional fees. Some more luxurious spaces will have onsite parking, a gym, and food (even beer!). In addition, they often can provide amenities like a reception desk, boardroom and breakout room rentals that allow for bringing in a team if need be or entertaining a client (something that is less convenient in a garage). Also, they usually pride themselves on reliable wifi and there is nothing worse than relying on an iffy home line for an important video conference. 

Flexibility

Because you are renting space, there is the flexibility to pay for only the time needed  These spaces have hot desking opportunities so that it isn’t necessary to fund a permanent space or to be tied down to a desk. Also many can provide 24/7 access so it is possible to easily work with clients around the globe. Again, the a-la-carte nature of a coworking space allows for individual freelancers or entrepreneurs to be more thrifty with their funds. 

Combating isolation

One of the largest issues that freelancers face when working from home is isolation. 

In part this can encompass loneliness, and in fact, over 20% of those that telecommute site loneliness as their number one issue. Coworking spaces are social places that can help combat loneliness, allowing for regular communication and interaction with people from interesting fields who also are remote workers and therefore understand the situations that are affecting each other. Often Coworking spaces encourage social outings, or in office communications, bringing in special foods, games, or other events to create some bonding between those who work together in the same space. 

However, loneliness is not the only kind of isolation. Isolation can also be a disconnect from resources. One of the great things about a coworking space is that they are usually outfitted with necessities like paper, pens and printers. These are, of course, items one would think would be simple to have at home, but running out of these things at inopportune times is one of the major dangers of working from home in isolation.   

Another kind of isolation is being out of the networking loop. Coworking spaces provide interesting ways to connect to people and new perspectives. Looking at a specific industry through the eyes of a freelancer that is doing something completely different may inspire unanticipated innovation. Building on this idea, it may be that those in a coworking space have network and client crossover that would otherwise never have been exploited. Additionally, because the other people in a coworking space are also freelancers and entrepreneurs, they may be able to work together to familiarize each other with resources, such as those needed to secure funding or negotiate life as a remote worker. As with most work environments, diversity of perspective is a good thing. 

Ultimately, freelancers and entrepreneurs can find many ways to value an investment into coworking spaces. With the ability to enjoy the amenities of office life, like supplies, facilities, and diversity of perspectives without being tied to long commutes or specific work hours, it’s an ideal situation. Need more information on coworking? Check out this comprehensive guide that offers further ideas and thoughts on why coworking might be the right choice.  

The post Coworking guide for entrepreneurs and freelancers first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
17 Things You Should Bring to Your Coworking Space https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/17-things-you-should-bring-to-your-coworking-space/ Wed, 27 Feb 2019 21:27:22 +0000 http://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/?p=5272 So, after some research and finding out the benefits of coworking spaces, you’ve decided to join one.

Now what?

The post 17 Things You Should Bring to Your Coworking Space first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
So, after some research and finding out the benefits of coworking spaces, you’ve decided to join one.

Now what? You’re probably full of questions. What should I bring with me? What are the people like? Where do I sit? Where are the coffee mugs? Should I bring food with me? Is there a microwave? Where can I eat lunch? How long should I stay there?

Worry not, we have the right answers for you.

Most coworking spaces have house rules and etiquette standards that all members should follow. On your first day, your community manager or a fellow coworker will probably give you a quick rundown of how things work in your coworking space and its community.

Get Your FREE Guide Today!

How to Start a Business in a Recession

During this short introduction, if you will, they will show you where the kitchen area is, where the coffee and coffee mugs are, they will give you the wifi password, show you where the bathrooms are, etc.

All coworking communities are different. Some are open 24/7 and others are open during regular business hours (give and take a few). When you come in and when you leave will be entirely your choice; do stick around, however, if there’s an event that you’re interested in.

Where you can sit will depend on your type of coworking membership. If you have a dedicated desk or private office membership, figuring out where to sit will be quite easy. If you have a hot-desking option, it’ll depend on which seats are available.

But, on to what you’re probably worrying most about.


Coworking Tips: 17 Things You Should Bring to Your Coworking Space

INFOGRAPHIC - 17 Things You Should Bring To Your Coworking Space

1. Computer and charger

If you joined a coworking space, you probably highly depend on your computer to get work done. Make sure you bring the correct charger along with you (though if you forget it and someone else has a compatible charger, they’re likely to lend it to you, it’s part of the coworking community spirit).

2. Cell phone charger or any other chargers you might need

You want to make sure you are equipped to be as productive as you can. If you take calls, if you use a camera or video camera for your job, if your headphones are wireless, if you have a Bluetooth keyboard, etc., pack all of the respective chargers. There’s nothing as frustrating as not being able to get work done because a device keeps dying on you (ok, probably slow or no wifi is more frustrating, but that’s out of your control).

3. Headphones

This is especially important if your membership gives you access to a desk in the shared workspace area. Although most coworking members are mindful about others and try to keep noise at a minimum, there will be times when you will want to tune out to be able to fully tune into the work you have to do. Pro tip: if you have Spotify or any other music provider, make sure you download your favorite focus playlists so as to not hog the internet.

4. Snacks

If you work long days and you tend to get hungry, bring some snacks with you. Some coworking spaces offer snacks everyday and others just on specials occasions. Besides, if you’re doing high-focus work, your brain will need extra energy to keep you going.

5. Business cards

One of the greatest benefits of coworking spaces is that they provide a lot of networking opportunities. You never know when you’ll meet someone in your coworking space that you could do business with, so make sure you bring your business cards with you to share with fellow members or visitors.

6. Water bottle

Although coworking spaces tend to have a fully equipped kitchen, you might want to bring your own water bottle.

7. A sweater or light jacket

Remember that you’ll be sharing your space with other people and each one of you has a different body thermostat. Bring a light sweater or jacket in case you feel the space is too cold, especially during the Winter.

8. Space heaters

If sweaters and jackets aren’t cutting it for you during the cold winter months, then ask your community manager if you can bring a space heater in to keep you warm.

9. Notebook and pens

This is especially important if you like to take notes by hand rather than by computer.

10. A lock (if your space offers lockers for storage)

Some coworking spaces offer lockers for storage for people with a hot-desking or dedicated desk membership. If you’ll be using a locker to keep your computer and other personal belongings in your coworking space overnight, make sure you bring a lock with you.

11. Your lunch or lunch money (debit/credit cards) to eat out with coworkers

If you bring your lunch from home, be mindful about the foods you microwave and eat in shared areas. Some people are more sensitive to strong smells than others. Also, use your lunchtime as an opportunity to bond with other coworking members; you can eat in the coworking space, order some delivery, or go out and eat lunch.

12. Toothbrush and toothpaste

This one doesn’t need much explanation; it’s good dental hygiene and some people even find that it helps with over snacking at work and preventing the after lunch slump.

13. A smile and a positive attitude

One of the most important elements of a coworking space is the community it nurtures and builds. Make sure you contribute to that community by bringing a smile everyday and having a positive attitude. Greet those who walk in, have a sense of responsibility and help keep the space clean, and contribute to the vibrant energy of the space.


Additional things to bring if you have a dedicated desk or private office

14. Desk plant

Having plants in the office has been proven to improve energy levels, air quality, and productivity, as well as reduces stress. Besides, they’re pretty to look at and they will give your work area a personal touch.

15. Pictures

Speaking of personal touch, you can also bring in a picture of your family, your friends, or your pet.

16. A desktop monitor, mouse, and keyboard

If you have a private office that you can lock up everyday you can set up a desktop monitor in your office. Some people find it easier and more productive to work with a larger screen, a larger keyboard, and a mouse.

17. Wall decor

If your coworking space allows you to hang up personalized wall decor in your private office, you can bring in your favorite paintings, hang your diplomas, set up floating shelves for books, hang your company logo, etc. The idea is to create a space that will inspire and motivate.

That’s it. It’s time for you to head to your new coworking space and start enjoying all the benefits it has to offer. If you want to learn more about coworking check out our ultimate guide to coworking!

The post 17 Things You Should Bring to Your Coworking Space first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
Coworking Space Buyer’s Guide https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/ultimate-guide-to-coworking/ Wed, 30 Jan 2019 02:59:26 +0000 http://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/?p=5144 Related: Quickly View All Coworking Spaces Near You

TABLE OF CONTENTS

    1. What is Coworking?

    2. A Brief History of Modern Coworking

The post Coworking Space Buyer’s Guide first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
>> Related: Quickly View All Coworking Spaces Near You

TABLE OF CONTENTS

    1. What is Coworking?

    2. A Brief History of Modern Coworking

    3. Who Uses Coworking Spaces?

    4. Basic Coworking Amenities

    5. Types of coworking memberships

    6. How to choose the right coworking space

    7. The benefits of coworking

    8. INFOGRAPHIC: Coworking etiquette


Who should read this guide?

Anyone who is interested in coworking. Whether you are part of the fan club, an active coworking user, someone who’s looking for the right coworking space, part of the HR department of a large or small company, or if you’re just curious as to what all the fuss is about, this guide is for you.

Why did we write this guide?

Coworking has exploded over the past couple of years, and along the way it has redefined what the workplace is and what it should look like.

By 2022, 5.1 million people will be coworking; by 2030, 30% of corporate portfolios will be comprised of coworking or some other form of flexible workspace; in the next few years, coworking will represent between 5%-10% of office inventory in various markets; and coworking will grow in retail space at a rate of 25% annually through 2023. There are hundreds of stats out there that prove coworking’s success; and though many still believe it’s a bubble, the recent entrance of property groups and landlords into the playing field is a key indicator that coworking is here to stay.

 

 

So we created this guide to help people understand what coworking is, what it has to offer, and how individuals and companies are leveraging coworking to improve productivity, combat loneliness, have flexibility, address wellness, and expand their networks; we wrote it to help companies and individuals figure out whether coworking is the right choice for them.


What is Coworking?

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, coworking is: “The use of an office or other working environment by people who are self-employed or working for different employers, typically so as to share equipment, ideas, and knowledge.”

In its early days, this definition would have sufficed. However, over the past 10+ years, coworking spaces have evolved into more. Coworking isn’t only for freelancers, startups, or entrepreneurs. Companies of all sizes are now also leveraging coworking; Facebook, Spotify, Pandora, Accenture, Expedia, Samsung, IBM, the list goes on.

Truth be told, there exists some disparity among expert’s definition of coworking. (We suggest you read the following posts: Why Coworking Needs a new Definition; Coworking does not Need a New Definition; Coworking might not Need a new Definition, but It Needs to Broaden the One It Has.)

For the purpose of this guide, we will stick to the following definition:

“Coworking is a hospitality-driven and flexible working environment that has revolutionized how people experience real estate, that allows for diverse groups of people to work together, and that centers around the principles of community, openness, collaboration, accessibility, and sustainability.”

[custom_block description=’Tired of working alone? Choose a local Coworking center and work in a friendly business community with like-minded professionals. Flexible, low-cost and affordable.’ image=’‘ link=’Get started here‘]


A Brief History of Modern Coworking

The first official modern day coworking space (we say modern day because the concept of coworking has been around for centuries now)  was opened in San Francisco by Brad Neuberg back in 2005. The first Impact Hub was also established in 2005; Impact Hub has grown to a global network of coworking spaces with presence in over 50 countries.  

However, it wasn’t until 2008, in the midst of the financial crisis, that coworking began to take off and mushroom across different cities and markets. By then, there were around 75 coworking spaces in the US.

Why 2008? Economic and technology developments. 2007 marked the year a lot of tech companies and products were born, however widespread adoption began to intensify in 2008. This was the year people began to use technologies that empowered them to work from anywhere, anytime.

2008 was also when the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression of the 1930s took place. It led to high unemployment rates, which in turn spurred entrepreneurship levels. A lot of people were looking for a place to work that offered flexible terms and short leases; startups, entrepreneurs, and freelancers were the early adopters of coworking.

In 2008: the coworking visa was created; the first unofficial coworking conference took place during South by Southwest (SXSW), which eventually evolved into the Global Coworking Unconference Conference (GCUC); coworking began to get some media attention; coworking spaces were mostly open space.

From then on, year after year, coworking has grown and evolved.

In 2009 the first coworking book was published, in 2010 WeWork — the largest coworking brand, which operates over 540 locations– was founded and the first coworking conference in Europe took place. Since 2010, up until 2017, coworking grew at an average annual rate of 23%.

In 2011, Deskmag conducted the first ever global coworking survey.  In 2012, the first GCUC conference took place in Austin, TX. By 2013, established serviced office and business center operators were also offering coworking space as part of their workspace offerings. In 2014, Regus bought the Netherlands-based coworking company, Spaces, which it has now grown to over 180 locations worldwide.

 

 

Fast forward to 2019 and there are now over over 14,000 coworking spaces across the world. Coworking has gone from trend to mainstream and it’s revolutionized the way people experience the workplace. While in the beginning coworking was mostly open, shared workspaces; most coworking operators today offer a variety of open and private space, as well as other informal work areas.

Coworking hasn’t just evolved in terms of design; it’s also evolved in terms of whom it caters to. While formerly the vast majority of coworking members were freelancers, entrepreneurs, and startups; today SMEs and large corporates are all leveraging coworking in order to attract and retain talent, as well as to connect their businesses with the larger community.


Who Uses Coworking Spaces?

Freelancers

Entrepreneurs

Startups

SMEs

Large companies


Basic Coworking Amenities

Though each coworking space is unique in it’s own way (design, niche, location, etc.), there are some basic amenities that you can find in most, if not all, coworking spaces.

  • WiFi and ethernet connection
  • Hot-desking and dedicated desk areas
  • Coffee + tea
  • Events and networking opportunities
  • Conference and meeting rooms
  • Quiet areas
  • Printing
  • Parking space
  • Kitchen area

Some coworking spaces also offer specialized or unique amenities, some are included as part of the membership and others come at an additional cost.

  • Concierge services
  • Virtual office services
  • Snacks and refreshments
  • Beer
  • On-site massage sessions
  • Yoga and meditation classes
  • Sit-stand desks
  • 24/7 access
  • Wellness stations or rooms
  • Outdoor working space
  • Pet-friendly
  • Childcare

Types of coworking memberships

When modern day coworking began back in 2005, most coworking spaces were open and shared workspaces. For various years, people believed coworking was synonymous with open space. This isn’t the case, at least not anymore. Open space can facilitate collaboration and interactions; however too much of it can be counter-productive.

As a response to market needs and demands, from 2010 onwards many coworking operators began to incorporate private and quiet areas to their coworking spaces. In order to cater to the growing market of coworking users, coworking spaces today offer different types and lengths of memberships.  Here is quick overview of the ones most operators offer:

Community or hot desking membership

This type of membership allows individuals to use all of the community areas and to choose a desk on a first come first serve basis.

Dedicated desk membership

Dedicated desks are typically found in the shared workspace area and it differentiates from hot desking in that people will have their own personal desk, which typically also includes some sort of storage area.

Private office membership

Private offices are enclosed and in a different area or floor from common areas. It provides users with extra privacy, more space, and additional amenities (extra meeting room hours and printing, for example).

Team office membership

The same as private offices, but can accommodate (depending on the space) anywhere from 2 to 10+ individuals.

Day passes

For people who aren’t ready to commit to one single location or who travel a lot for work. Day pass holders can use the hot desking area on a first come, first serve basis.

Virtual offices and conference rooms

For those who aren’t looking for workspace but would still benefit from having a professional address, mail handling, and access to meeting and conference rooms. You can learn more about virtual offices here.


How to choose the right coworking space

There are several things that you need to think about when choosing a coworking space. For starters, think about location; you’ll want a coworking space that easy to get to and that offers parking space. You should also consider the surrounding area, is the space surrounded by other local businesses, by restaurants, and shops?

Once you’ve found a location that will work for you, you have to start thinking about the tools and resources that you want to have access to. Depending on your line of work, you’ll also need to think about what type of workspace best suits your professional needs: hot desking, dedicated desk, private office, or team office.

Then look at the amenities, both those included with a membership and those that come at an additional cost. Pick out a few coworking spaces that seem to suit your needs, then schedule a visit and a tour of the space. Touring the space will allow you to take in the look and feel of the space and its community. While touring, make sure you try out a couple of the chairs and desks available to check if they are comfortable and ergonomic. Take some time to analyze if the space will provide you with enough natural light and different work environments; it’s also super important that you measure noise levels.

Here’s what you need to think about:

  • Location
  • Community
  • Overall work environment
  • Comfort (furniture, lighting, noise)
  • Amenities
  • Types of memberships and their length
  • Cost
  • Community

The benefits of coworking

Source: Knoll

For freelancers, startups, entrepreneurs, and SMEs

One of the biggest benefits of coworking for freelancers and startups is flexibility and accessibility. Freelancers, startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs don’t always have the available cash flow to rent office space. Coworking spaces provide them with the necessary office infrastructure with the added benefit of flexibility; they can grow or contract the amount of space they use based on current needs. Since coworking spaces offer all of the real estate and facility management basics (electricity, water, cleaning, reception area, IT infrastructure, etc.) it allows users to focus on their work instead of being caught up with back office issues.

Coworking spaces also provide those in this group  with plenty of networking and collaboration opportunities. It provides individuals with access to a vibrant community, which can help reduce loneliness, especially among freelancers and home workers. Coworking users also report being more productive working from a coworking space than working from home or a coffee shop.

Coworking also offers entrepreneurs, freelancers, startups, and SMEs with access to new resources and talent. Given coworking’s nature, professionals from different fields are all working together in one space; those in this group can find a potential client, partner, or vendor for a specific project within the coworking space.

For large companies

For starters, coworking can help large companies keep their balance sheets on the positive side due to their short lease nature. New lease accounting standards require companies to show long or new leases on their balance sheets, leases shorter than 12 months are exempt from this provision.

More importantly, however, coworking can help large companies attract and retain talent. The nature of coworking spaces, its design and amenities contribute to a better workplace experience, one that speaks to younger workforce generations. Moreover, coworking spaces have been proven to improve motivation and productivity levels among employees.

Large companies are also tapping into coworking in order to drive innovation and collaboration within their organization. Using a coworking space puts corporates in the same area where a lot of startups are; where new ideas are coming into life. Large companies also greatly benefit from the flexibility that coworking offers; it’s a cost-effective resource  that corporates can use to enter new markets and grow and downsize teams as needed.


Coworking etiquette

Part of the beauty of coworking is that you are sharing space and resources with everyone. This means that in order for the experience to be pleasant for those involved, you have to mind the right coworking etiquette.

null

null

 

  • Don’t take loud calls in shared workspace areas
  • Don’t listen to music, videos or podcasts on speakers (wear earphones)
  • Clean after yourself (your desk and in the kitchen)
  • Make more coffee if there’s none or if you took the last of it
  • Be nice and cordial, say hello and offer a smile
  • Introduce yourself to others
  • Before you take someone else’s time, ask if they have a moment
  • Book meeting rooms in advance, respect your meeting room time and don’t overstay
  • Be mindful of the food you put in the microwave
  • Don’t leave leftovers in the fridge for a long time (if you’re not going to eat it, toss it away yourself)
  • Use professional and friendly language

Have any tips or suggestions that you think we can add to this guide? Reach out and let us know. If you’d like more information about coworking or flexible workspaces overall, sign up to our newsletter!

The post Coworking Space Buyer’s Guide first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
5 Coworking Spaces You’ll Never Want to Leave https://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/5-coworking-spaces-youll-never-want-to-leave/ Tue, 10 Jul 2018 08:00:19 +0000 http://www.alliancevirtualoffices.com/virtual-office-blog/?p=4611 Is it really possible to achieve work-life balance? Well, it may interest you to know that you’re probably already doing

The post 5 Coworking Spaces You’ll Never Want to Leave first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>
Is it really possible to achieve work-life balance? Well, it may interest you to know that you’re probably already doing it.

There’s a common misconception about work-life balance. Generally, we believe it means attaining an equal balance between both work and personal activities — but in fact it’s much more fluid than that. According to WorkLifeBalance.com, your best individual work-life balance will vary over time, and the right balance for you today will probably be different for
you tomorrow.


The key to work-life balance is not about splitting your day between work and lifestyle activities, but about attaining a sense of Achievement and Enjoyment on a daily basis.

As an entrepreneur or independent business owner you may already be ticking both of those boxes. But of course, these accomplishments are much more attainable if you’re in a position to set your own flexible work routine — and even more so if you’re within close proximity to your ideal lifestyle activities. Technology has made it possible for us to work virtually anywhere, and flexible workspaces enable touchdown workers to get the job done in their ideal location — be it near home, near the beach, in the city, or in a far-flung corner of paradise.

With that in mind, these five U.S. coworking spaces don’t just walk the line between work and life — they positively trample all over it. And that’s just fine with us.

Chevy Chase Pavilion in Washington D.C.

1. Cafe culture in D.C.

Get down to work in D.C. at this gorgeous coworking space in the Chevy Chase Pavilion. Located at the corner of Wisconsin and Western Avenues, the building has an impressive 11-story sky-lit atrium, a hotel, and three floors of shops and restaurants (including Maggiano’s and The Cheesecake Factory) not to mention its own beautifully designed coworking space. Gourmet coffee comes as standard, as does a friendly welcome and a great place to work. Check it out >

Brickell Arch building in Miami, Florida

2. Work meets play in Downtown Miami

Skirting the city’s sweeping coastline, Miami’s Brickell Avenue is famous for its ‘work meets play’ vibe — and this awesome coworking hub gives you the best of both worlds. Head into the iconic 36-storey Brickell Arch building and get to work in a luxurious work environment that’s also home to a fitness club, swimming pool, tennis courts, gardens, a restaurant, shops and a luxury hotel. Check it out >

3. Penthouse coworking in LAViews of Los Angeles from the top floor

Want a room with a view? This gorgeous penthouse coworking space in downtown Los Angeles has knockout views from its top floor vantage point. The moment you step out of the elevator, you can see all of Los Angeles including the ocean. Trouble is, you may feel a touch distracted by what’s out the window rather than what’s on your to-do list. Still, this space comes beautifully furnished and fully kitted out to help you find focus and channel your energy in the right direction. Oozing ‘wow’ factor and with a friendly staff on-site, this space is hard to beat. Check it out >

4. Cool vibe in Santa MonicaSilicon Beach in Santa Monica

A people-focused coworking space through and through, this awesome work hub is located in the heart of downtown Santa Monica’s Silicon Beach — LA’s hottest tech scene and a bustling spot between the beach and the 3rd Street promenade. Check-in and get to work in a friendly community of entrepreneurs, tech startups, creatives and professionals from all walks of life. Check it out >

Ala Moana building on Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu

5. Island paradise in Honolulu

What better place to cowork than ‘The Gathering Place’ — Hawaii’s island of Oahu? Head into the buzzing city of Honolulu and see for yourself why it’s dubbed ‘the racing pulse’ of the island. It’s got the heritage, the beaches, the scenery, awesome shopping and restaurants, and of course a great work vibe. Check into the Ala Moana building on Kapiolani Boulevard and get to work in a beautifully designed center with fresh decor, comfortable furnishings and superb ocean views. Check it out >

BONUS: Coworking Near the Coast

You can’t get better work-life balance than an office by the beach. If that sounds like your idea of heaven, check out these awesome coworking spaces near the coast:

Doral, Florida:

This pro workspace is close to Miami International Airport and overlooks a lush golf resort — a great place not just for coworking but also for meeting clients. Once your working day is done, hop in the car and you’re on Miami Beach within half an hour — the perfect place to wind down after a busy day. Check it out >

Newport Beach, California:

From this coworking space at Newport Center, you’re only 5 minutes from the coast. Newport Beach boasts 10 miles of California coastline — head to The Wedge for awesome surf, check out the Balboa Pier, sink your toes into the sand at Corona del Mar State Beach, or head to Upper Newport Bay Beach for hiking and biking trails. Check it out >

West Palm Beach, Florida:

Sandy beaches, gorgeous shores, festivals, fine dining, electric nightlife, watersports… there’s more than one reason why West Palm Beach is known and loved the world over. As for business, you’ll fit right in at this stunning coworking space on Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard. Surrounded by lakes and waterways and a five-minute drive from Palm Beach itself, it’s like working in paradise. Check it out >

The post 5 Coworking Spaces You’ll Never Want to Leave first appeared on Alliance Virtual Offices.

]]>