The benefits of coworking
Coworking has become a major innovation in the 21st century, with many companies realising the benefits of several workers from different companies sharing office space.
The culture of a coworking space feels different from a regular office from the moment you walk in, with the occupants bringing an energised atmosphere to the space, as some focus on tasks at private desks, while others might be engaging in conversations at large, shared tables.
Providing an affordable office for people who want to escape the isolation of working in a home office or café, coworking environments enable small businesses to enjoy the benefits of a suite of office-like amenities including private meeting rooms, desks, kitchens, coffee and a workplace community.
The usual occupants are freelance workers, start-ups, entrepreneurs and small teams, who are keen to take advantage of a flexible workspace.
What are the main benefits?
As well as the positive office culture, the costs are a big plus, as occupants can rent only for what they need, rather than having to rent an entire office, even when it’s not all needed.
Coworking spaces offer membership-based options when it comes to payment. Costs vary and will enable flexibility for the occupants, such as choosing monthly or daily fees. The expenses can differ, depending on whether you need a dedicated desk, or you intend to use a shared one.
Freelancers will feel particular benefits of coworking spaces – they can enjoy a flexible schedule, choosing their own hours, without the isolation. They can work in a community of like-minded individuals, which provides a more creative atmosphere in comparison with working from a home office.
For start-ups, a coworking space has lower costs than a traditional office lease. Small teams can interact with one another and this may boost creativity as a result.
An entrepreneur may even be able to find a co-founder for a start-up if they connect with the right person at the right time. Coworking spaces are ideal for this type of small organisation.
A recent study in The Harvard Business Review, found employees thrived in shared workspaces compared with regular offices. People who use coworking spaces have a more positive attitude towards their work. They find it more meaningful, feeling more in control, while experiencing a sense of community.
Do larger businesses use coworking spaces?
While coworking was once believed to be the domain of small businesses and freelancers, there has been a trend for larger organisations to get on-board too. Forward-thinking employers are now starting to utilise coworking spaces when possible.
Some larger companies use the flexibility offered by coworking spaces to help them manage their real estate and costs. Coworking compares favourably to signing up for longer leases, where forecasting business and real estate needs is necessary.
Even for larger companies, coworking spaces enable true freedom and mobility. The culture encourages collaboration and people are likely to strike up useful conversations. This promotes innovation by enabling different people with their own skills and talents to connect.
While some organisations have similar spaces in their offices, they often lack the buzz which encourages collaboration between departments. Coworking spaces can help any organisation come up with fresh ideas to help boost growth.
Take advantage of Headspace Group’s affordable coworking environments. For details, please give us a call on 0800 953 0585.
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