Why Businesses and Individuals Are Opting for Coworking Spaces
It seems that the face of the American workplace is evolving these days. Over the last several years, a growing number of people have transitioned to remote work. This phenomenon has been developing for quite some time, but the pandemic certainly ushered it along.
Before the pandemic took shape, approximately 6 percent of Americans worked remotely. Now, around 30 percent of the nation’s workforce falls into that category. That number is expected to grow substantially moving forward.
Finding a Suitable Place for Remote Work
Working outside the confines of a traditional office setting certainly has its benefits. Many companies insist their remote employees are more productive. Quite a few employees say that’s because they’re happier and less stressed. Being able to work from virtually anywhere is a major advantage as well. Of course, the wonders of not having to deal with morning and evening commutes can’t be overlooked.
That being said, working from home, beside the neighborhood pool, or a local coffee shop isn’t the best option for everyone. Because of that, a surging number of companies and independent remote workers are turning to coworking spaces. Doing so eliminates many of the hurdles today’s businesses, freelancers, and remote employees face.
Why Is Coworking Becoming So Popular?
Initially, some people might flinch at the thought of sharing a workspace with people they don’t know. Working in fairly close quarters with people in various positions and career fields may seem a bit uncomfortable from the outside looking in as well. Most people who have tried coworking find that their concerns quickly fade away in the wake of all the potential benefits, though.
Agreeable Atmosphere
Countless people raise an eyebrow at the notion of coworking. They question whether there is any wisdom in breaking free of the office only to jump headlong back into a similar situation. Those who have experienced coworking are quick to point out that the two situations are completely different.
Coworking spaces operate on a completely different level. Despite being in an officially appointed work area, people are still able to follow their own schedules. Stretching their legs, venturing outdoors, having a cup of coffee, and chatting with fellow workers are not only allowed but encouraged. There’s no hierarchy or office politics to deal with, either. Coworking gives rise to a relaxed atmosphere that’s not found in most conventional workplaces.
Optimal Flexibility
Flexibility is another reason so many businesses, remote workers, and freelancers are choosing coworking spaces. Depending on the space in question and the company that operates it, any number of options may be available to those who want to schedule time and workspace. Some even allow people to schedule a few hours of shared space at the spur of the moment.
For the most part, people book coworking space on a weekly or monthly basis. They may take advantage of this option a few days a week or for a specified number of hours per month. Those are only a couple of possibilities, though.
Packages are generally available to suit a range of needs and budgets. Coworking space can accommodate a last-minute need for peace and quiet. It can allow businesses to book three days a week for multiple employees. Plenty of additional alternatives are available as well.
Extensive Collaboration and Networking Opportunities
Another selling point for coworking space is the many opportunities it offers. People from all types of jobs and backgrounds come together in the same place to carry out their work-related duties. Along the way, they can bounce ideas off of one another and draw from each other’s knowledge and experience. All that diverse talent and expertise is bound to benefit not only remote workers but their employers and clients.
From another perspective, coworking brings about numerous networking opportunities. Freelancers have been known to find new clients when sharing workspace with other professionals. Entrepreneurs often gain connections with new prospects who ultimately become customers. Businesspeople may form new working relationships with product and service providers. In truth, there could be boundless potential waiting within a coworking space.
Added Professionalism
Coworking spaces are also helpful tools for professionals who work remotely but occasionally need a venue for business meetings. Meeting with a client at a local restaurant may be an impressive notion, but it could also make for a loud, chaotic experience fraught with unnecessary distractions. Getting together with a prospect or potential business partner in an employee’s home wouldn’t exactly make for an influential first impression, either.
Though getting together via Zoom or other online platforms has become a common alternative, professionals still need suitable spaces for conducting those meetings. Coworking spaces typically offer private conference rooms and other options for carrying out meetings. In doing so, they bring more professionalism to the mix for people who don’t work from conventional offices.
Greater Affordability
Affordability has been deemed the leading reason people are drawn to coworking spaces. For many, the cost of private operating space is well out of reach. That’s the case for established companies, startups, freelancers, and remote workers alike.
On top of that, the expenses associated with purchasing and maintaining office equipment, paying for utilities, and covering other necessities further drive up the cost. Renting coworking space is much more affordable, and all the essentials are included in the price. As mentioned, plans are available to fit in with a range of budgets, making coworking an even more cost-effective approach.
Opting for the New Norm
Not very long ago, working remotely was virtually unheard of. Today, it’s quickly becoming the norm. While this new movement offers ample benefits, many people who are taking advantage of it still need a more professional working environment at times.
Coworking spaces give them just that while providing numerous additional perks. Affordability, flexibility, professionalism, networking and collaboration opportunities, and a more relaxed working atmosphere are among the most noteworthy. As such, coworking is largely replacing the conventional office setting and will continue to gain popularity moving forward.
The future of work is changing. Though the pandemic made work from home far more popular with employees, many companies today opt for the hybrid model to combine working in the office and from home. Coworking cafes are an excellent option for those who want a more comfortable, relaxed space that provides everything they need while working. Fitting well into the hybrid model, coworking cafes like the SUCCESS Space provide everything workers need and a whole lot more.
Click here to find out more about owning your own SUCCESS Space, chat with us, or call today to get started.
