If the trends and figures are showing us anything, it’s that remote work, the gig economy, and flexible schedules are all here to stay. And, as a result, traditional workspace options are becoming outdated and inconvenient and organizations are seeking new office alternatives.
Enter: coworking spaces. While not a new concept by any means, the recent evolution of the modern workforce has triggered a new wave of organizations, satellite teams, small businesses, and solopreneurs to explore it as an option.
And in this article, we’ll explain the nine advantages of coworking spaces in 2022 and beyond.
- Network With Other Small Businesses
- Increase Productivity
- Access to Shared and Private Spaces
- Reduce Loneliness; Increase Connection
- Cut Overhead Costs
- Help Strike a Work-Life Balance
- Provide More More Flexibility Than Traditional Office Space
- Help You Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
- Bring Structure to Your Day
1. Network With Other Small Businesses
Some people cringe at the very word, but networking doesn’t need to be awkward or forced. It’s about making genuine professional connections that are mutually beneficial.
One of the benefits of coworking spaces is the fact that they put you in close proximity to other linke-minded individuals. You can connect over coffee with a graphic designer, bump into a marketing professional in the hallway, or sit beside a freelance writer.
2. Increase Productivity
While it has its benefits, working from home is just not the most productive environment.
Coworking spaces, however, are designed for productivity. They’re a mix of shared workspaces and private offices that are comfortable and have everything you need for success. Coworking spaces have all the business essentials that you need, including:
- Printers, scanners, and other office equipment.
- Meeting rooms for your team or clients.
- Lounge areas to grab a coffee and take a break.
Coworking spaces have another productivity benefit: other people. Your fellow coworking professionals will be focusing on their next great project, so you can be encouraged and inspired to do the same.
3. Access to Shared and Private Spaces
One of the main advantages of coworking spaces is that there are options.
Need to drop in and find an available desk on the fly? Take your pick.
Want a quiet, private workspace for Zoom calls? They’re here.
Have a client coming in for a meeting or working on a team? Book a private conference room, no problem.
The options and access to shared and private spaces make it possible to get any kind of work done. It’s a simple, smooth process to book the space you need and optimize your productivity and efficiency.
4. Reduce Loneliness; Increase Connection
Without other colleagues around every day, some small business owners and remote workers feel isolated. Increased connections are one of the top benefits of coworking spaces because they can be both professional and social.
Coworking spaces combat loneliness through casual interactions, formal events, or work collaboration. Even a friendly hello from a community manager can go a long way to help you feel connected and engaged as you show up to work each day.
5. Cut Overhead Costs
Saving money is one of the best advantages of coworking spaces and can make all the difference for a small business. Purchasing, or even renting, commercial or office space can be extremely expensive and so dedicated space may be out of your budget.
Coworking spaces are affordable alternatives and can significantly cut your overhead costs. Some of these costs include:
- High-speed WiFi.
- Electricity.
- Office supplies like a printer and scanner.
- A/V equipment for presentations.
And, because most coworking spaces have flexible membership options, you can find something that fits your budget.
6. Help Strike a Work-Life Balance
Sure, it might be a buzzword that gets used a lot, but work-life balance is so essential to get right. Hard-working entrepreneurs, business owners, and freelancers know what it means to hustle and sometimes find it harder to relax or practice self-care. Stress and burnout can be a real factor.
Coworking spaces are designed to be multi-functional. You can get a lot of great work done, but there are also other amenities to take advantage of, such as in-house yoga, wellness initiatives, and philanthropic opportunities.
7. Provide More Flexibility Than Traditional Office Space
Working in a traditional workplace, you’re likely limited to your own office or desk in whichever city you’re based in.
But coworking spaces offer flexibility in the type of space and there are often flexible coworking locations in different cities. At Launch Workplaces, we have locations in four states and eleven cities. With a Launch Pass, you have access to all of these locations to help you stay productive on the road.
Further, coworking spaces allow you to choose a membership that fits your needs, whether it’s a day pass or a yearly pass.
8. Help You Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
No two days will be the same in a coworking space. You’ll connect with new people, have a changing schedule, and rotate work spots.
These daily changes to your routine require you to step outside your comfort zone.
Stepping out of your comfort zone can be challenging at first, but will be worth it. You’ll be more creative and innovative, not to mention engaged and excited about work each day.
9. Bring Structure to Your Day
Creating structure in your work day can help you achieve work-life balance. It helps you log off and prevent work from creeping into your personal life.
Think of an average work-from-home day: checking emails while still in bed, working from the couch, or finishing a project in the evening (since your workstation is right there).
A coworking space is a destination to go to and work. It creates some much-needed structure and boundaries for when to work and when to call it a day.
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No doubt about it—coworking spaces will continue to gain popularity amongst freelancers, remote workers, small business owners, and entrepreneurs. After all, the advantages of coworking spaces are massive!
If you’d like to learn more about the advantages of coworking spaces and if it’s the right fit for you, get in touch today to learn more about Launch Workplaces.
