The remote work trend has caught the attention of people from many professions and industries. While many people are singing the praises of remote work, few discuss the dark side of this arrangement. Let’s be honest, being cooped up in your own house, attending work calls and typing away on your computer is nobody’s dream job.
At the end of the day, everyone misses being around their co-workers, going on lunch breaks together, having coffee, chatting near the water cooler and all other forms of socialization that an office offers. What if there was a way to continue working remotely, and also enjoying social interactions and networking? In this article, we will look at the benefits of using a co-working space for remote workers.
What is a co-working space?
A co-working space is a communal office space where individuals show up and work whenever they want. People working in different fields and organizations can work in one environment. It is not only a perfect space for being productive, but also a great opportunity to network and collaborate with like minded individuals.
How to find a good co-working space?
Some co-working spaces are specially designed environments where users register and pay a monthly or annual membership fee. Other spaces like libraries, lounges, work bars, cafes, parks, etc. are also good for a change of environment. Working outdoors can help you stimulate your sense and feel a sense of refreshment and rejuvenation.
Benefits of using a co-working space
Mentally stimulating environment
If you are a registered member of a co-working community, you will enjoy an environment that is designed to enhance productivity. Being surrounded by motivated people drives you to do your best to achieve your goals.
Some co-working environments are intentionally designed with colors, lighting and furniture that make people feel energetic and happy. Such spaces understand the needs of their users and try to customize the interiors to suit their preferences. A mentally stimulating environment is very important for people who work away from their office, as they often find it difficult to motivate themselves.
Networking opportunities
Co-working spaces are not just shared office spaces where people show up, work, and leave in silence. They are meant to go the extra mile and create a sense of community among their members. Some co-working centers host community events where users can introduce themselves and develop professional connections.
Online chatrooms, promotion of collaborative projects and other events like conferences and symposiums ensure that users benefit from the resource pool of the community. Junior professionals can connect with experienced ones who can mentor them. Those who are thinking of switching to a new line of work can get inputs from people who are working in their field of choice.
Flexible workspace
Co-working spaces offer more flexibility by providing adaptable environments for your unique work needs. With flexible seating arrangements, you can choose between open spaces where you can interact with many people, or private offices for solitary tasks.
For example, if a remote worker needs a quiet space for a focused task, they can opt for a private room. If they want a brainstorming session with their team, the communal areas are readily available. This variety allows remote workers to customize their surroundings to match their workflow, fostering a work environment that aligns with their individual needs and preferences.
Saving costs
Renting an entire office, buying furniture, and paying utility bills can add up annoyingly fast. Using a co-working space can save costs for a remote worker because they don’t have to bear the expenses associated with maintaining a dedicated office. In a co-working space, utility costs are shared among the members, making it more affordable.
For instance, instead of footing the bill for a separate office with all the amenities, you can pay a monthly fee for a co-working membership, gaining access to a fully equipped workspace without any overwhelming financial commitment. This way, you can enjoy a professional work environment without the high upfront costs and ongoing expenses of a traditional office setup.
Maintaining a professional image
If you are a freelancer or entrepreneur, you would want a pleasant environment for client meetings. If you don’t have a home office, you can invite your clients for in-person meetings at a co-working center. It will help you make a good first impression, add to your credibility and enhance your brand image.
If you are the owner of a sole proprietorship or small business, you would want to hire employees at some point. If you have small number of employees, you can always accommodate them at a co-working center rather than spending on an office space.
Work life balance
The biggest bane of remote work is that it always looms over you, even after working hours. You never really walk away from work, even though you have done your tasks for the day. You might still feel like you are available for one call, one update, one text message…it never ends.
If you spend your work day in a co-working space, you can shut down your device, go home, and call it a day! It will help you physically separate your work and personal life, and maintain those boundaries even when work gets hectic. In a time when hustle culture and over-working are the norm, work life balance is the most precious thing you can find!
Setting a routine
Digital nomads who do remote work while hopping from one location to another, often get disturbed due to constant changes in environment. True, variety is the spice of life. But beyond a certain extent, people crave familiarity and routine. When you are tired of travelling, it is always good to come home to something comfortable. Co-working spaces can help bring sense of routine, discipline and regularity to your work life.
If you are a remote worker looking for a good work environment, we hope this article has helped you understand co-working spaces. A co-working space will provide you a mentally stimulating environment where you establish a flexible work routine, network with other professionals, maintain a healthy work life balance, and present yourself professionally to your clients, all the while saving on costs!
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings