Coworking Spaces: What Are They And Are They Good For You And Your Team?
Coworking is the new buzzword, and rightly so — although it’s not an entirely new concept, it gained enormous popularity during the pandemic, and it’s been on the uptrend ever since.
Coworking spaces or flex offices are communal spaces, accessible through simple day-passes or flexible subscriptions and they offer a professional work environment to remote workers and freelancers, as well as a flexible alternative to traditional long-term office leases for teams and businesses.
Space types
Coworking spaces are much more diverse and versatile than people first think — the image of a single open space where people stare at their laptop screens all day couldn’t be further from the reality. In fact, that would be more like a regular office, except you don’t know the person sitting next to you.
While most coworking spaces do have large, dynamic open workspaces, that’s just the so-called hot-desk area where you book a random desk for a limited time. The next level up is a dedicated desk subscription, which is recommended for regular clients who want their own place with lockable drawers. Teams that need even more privacy with exclusive access to their very own space can also opt for private offices. Remote businesses that require limited presence can also choose a virtual office package for a professional address, mail handling and phone answering services, priority booking, etc.
Whichever option you go for, you have access to all the same amenities on the premises, and you can also book meeting rooms and — if available — event spaces.
Amenities
One of the non-negotiables at most coworking spaces is a non-stressful environment aimed at productivity. High-speed internet, well-equipped meeting rooms and scanning/printing corners are always a given, but most spaces also offer relaxation spaces with games, snacks and beverages.
Depending on your specific needs, you can look for coworking spaces that offer niche amenities can such as bike storage, mother’s rooms, privacy booths, on-site IT support, a professional business address with mail handling and phone answering services, pet friendly policy, and much more.
Motivation
It’s no secret that finding motivation and staying on track is a great challenge when working from home. A healthy, dedicated work environment is no match for the home office, even if you’re lucky enough to have a separate bedroom just for working.
Motivation is contagious, so when you work in a room full of driven professionals you will inevitably be more productive too. It’s part of human nature to perform better when being observed, so coworking spaces provide a handy way to unlock your innovative, creative spirit and get more work done quicker.
If you want your team to grow and have outstanding results coworking spaces also provide private workspaces that are specifically designed for teamwork.
Flexibility
Coworking agreements are always flexible, as operators recognized a major drawback of traditional office leasing. Finding good office space, negotiating lease terms and personalizing the work area takes time, effort, and not least, huge funds. And, on top of it all, you’re locked into a long-term agreement that can block your growth and influence all your most important business decisions for years.
This flexibility means you only pay for the space you’re actually using, and you can upgrade or downgrade as your changing needs dictate. Furthermore, if you choose a coworking brand with a worldwide portfolio, you’ll have access to the same quality spaces on your business travels too. Most coworking spaces are also accessible 24/7, so you can organize your day around your workstyle, instead of adapting your life to a strict schedule.
Networking & Business Opportunities
Coworking spaces are excellent for networking. Instead of dedicating hours to build connections, after your workday is done, you can meet potential clients and business partners during your coffee break.
Furthermore, coworking spaces often host professional events, workshops, seminars and masterclasses in many fields. These allow you to take a more targeted approach when it comes to building professional relationships, also without getting too far away from your desk.
Community Events
Coworking is all about building a community, so apart from the professional, open-house events, many coworking spaces regularly organize social and cultural events exclusively for their member base. These diverse but tightly knit communities are what really sets coworking apart from a traditional office where you go only to get your daily work done.
The coworking model developed from real-life needs of real people. As a result, these flexible office spaces are a genuine solution to the struggles of work-from-home isolation while also providing a great alternative to rigid office lease agreements. The concept works so well exactly because it’s based on flexibility, bringing together hardworking, like-minded professionals from virtually every field, in an organic way.
Many coworking spaces offer a free day pass for new members, so if you haven’t already, go ahead and give it a try to experience the community vibe first-hand.
