Businesses in Coworking Spaces – The Dos and Don’ts of Preparing for the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, businesses of all sizes are gearing up for one of the busiest and most critical times of the year. Whether you’re a startup, an established company, or a freelancer, the holidays present both exciting opportunities and added challenges. For businesses in coworking spaces, the combination of flexibility, resources, and community support can make the holiday rush more manageable. Here’s a guide on what to do — and what to avoid — to ensure your business is fully prepared for the holiday season.
Plan Ahead for Increased Demand
The holidays often bring a significant surge in sales, services, and client requests. Properly preparing for this spike is essential for keeping your business running smoothly.
What To Do:
- Forecast demand: Look at previous years’ data to predict trends and prepare for an increase in orders or services.
- Adjust resources: Use the flexibility of your coworking space to book extra desk space or meeting rooms as your business expands temporarily to meet demand.
What Not To Do:
- Wait until the last minute to adjust resources: Planning ahead is key. Don’t scramble to book additional space or hire help at the last moment. Ensure everything is arranged in advance to avoid unnecessary stress.
Stay Organized with Clear Deadlines
With an increased workload, staying organized is critical to meeting holiday demands and maintaining quality customer service.
What To Do:
- Use project management tools: Take advantage of cloud-based tools or collaborative software available in your coworking space to keep track of deadlines, tasks, and team communications.
- Set realistic timelines: Make sure you and your clients are clear on deadlines, delivery dates, and expectations.
What Not To Do:
- Take on more than you can handle: The holiday season can be busy enough without overcommitting. Be realistic about your capacity and avoid accepting too many projects or clients that could overwhelm your team.
Capitalize on Networking and Collaboration
Coworking spaces are rich with networking and collaboration opportunities that can boost your business during the holidays.
What To Do:
- Attend holiday networking events: Take advantage of the seasonal networking events, happy hours, or virtual meetups often hosted in coworking communities. These events can help you connect with potential clients, partners, or collaborators.
- Collaborate with others: If there are businesses that complement yours, consider offering joint promotions or cross-marketing campaigns. This collaborative approach can amplify your reach and increase visibility.
What Not To Do:
- Isolate yourself: The holidays can be hectic, but don’t forget about the value of networking. Don’t lock yourself away from the coworking community — making new connections during this time can open doors for future growth.
Prepare Your Holiday Marketing Strategy
The holidays are the perfect time to engage with your audience and attract new customers. A strong marketing strategy can set your business apart from the competition.
What To Do:
- Create holiday-specific campaigns: Design special promotions, discounts, or limited-time offers that align with the holiday spirit.
- Update your online presence: Ensure your website, social media accounts, and marketing materials are festive and reflect holiday offers.
- Leverage email marketing: Send seasonal promotions, holiday greetings, or exclusive offers to your customers and clients.
What Not To Do:
- Neglect your online presence: With many customers turning to online shopping, don’t let your digital marketing fall behind. Ensure that your website and social media pages are updated and aligned with your holiday promotions.
Stay Flexible with Coworking Space Resources
Coworking spaces offer incredible flexibility, which can be a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. Use this to your advantage as you juggle multiple tasks and responsibilities.
What To Do:
- Use flexible hours and space: Many coworking spaces offer 24/7 access or extended hours during the holidays, which can help you stay productive during non-traditional working hours.
- Take advantage of shared amenities: Utilize communal spaces for brainstorming, meetings, or team collaborations. These spaces are great for creative work or connecting with others.
What Not To Do:
- Miss out on available resources: Coworking spaces provide a wide range of amenities. Be sure to use everything at your disposal, whether it’s high-speed internet, meeting rooms, or printing facilities. Don’t limit yourself to just a desk if your business needs go beyond that.
Maintain Work-Life Balance
The holiday season can be a time of high stress, but it’s also important to maintain balance. Don’t sacrifice your well-being for the sake of business success.
What To Do:
- Set boundaries: Define your work hours and take regular breaks. This is especially important if you’re working in a coworking space, as it can be easy to get absorbed in the holiday rush.
- Prioritize self-care: Many coworking spaces offer wellness programs, meditation rooms, or even fitness options. Use these to help you recharge and stay healthy throughout the busy season.
What Not To Do:
- Work around the clock: Overworking can lead to burnout. Be sure to schedule time for rest and relaxation, and recognize that productivity often improves when you’re well-rested and at your best.
Plan for Time Off
While the holidays can be an intense period for business, it’s also important to plan for some time off to recharge.
What To Do:
- Schedule breaks in advance: Plan your holiday schedule early and communicate your availability to clients and coworkers. Make sure you allow yourself time to rest without feeling guilty.
- Use coworking space flexibility: If you need to wrap up tasks before taking time off, coworking spaces can provide a quiet, professional environment to get things done efficiently.
What Not To Do:
- Wait until the last minute to schedule time off: Avoid the stress of last-minute planning. Having time off scheduled in advance allows you to manage client expectations and avoid work piling up.
In Conclusion
The holiday season is a prime opportunity for businesses in coworking spaces to maximize productivity, build connections, and increase revenue. By following these to-dos and avoiding common pitfalls, you can set yourself up for success in a flexible and supportive environment. With proper planning, clear communication, and a healthy work-life balance, your business can thrive during the holiday season and beyond. Whether you’re dealing with increased demand, launching promotions, or simply maintaining your regular workflow, coworking spaces provide the ideal setting to manage the challenges of the season.