Post Author: Kat Haselkorn.
Coworking is increasing in popularity to the point where, something that was once nearly unheard of, is now a common way to do business. From entrepreneurs to start-ups to small businesses, working in a shared workspace is often the economical thing to do.
When we polled coworkers to see what they loved most about the environment, here’s what they had to say. Read on for 5 reasons current coworkers love their set-up and decide if coworking might be a good fit for you too!
Friends to eat lunch with.
Many individuals who work out of coworking spaces otherwise work alone. These are the folks who used to hole up in coffee shops nursing a cup of tea and praying the WiFi wouldn’t disappear. For many entrepreneurs and small business owners, coworking allows them time to socialize and network with other professionals and have someone to talk to occasionally throughout the workweek.
Learning what all the companies in the office do.
Netowrking is a major perk of coworking spaces but sometimes it goes a step farther. Many small business owners find that the “stranger” at the desk next to them actually provides a service their own company can benefit from. Wandering around the shared workspace and striking up conversations from time to time allows you to learn about all the other businesses in the room. This can be useful from a professional standpoint or simply help you get to know your neighbors.
Watching new professional connections and friendships form.
It’s not all about you. Working in a shared space every day means you get to watch other business partnerships thrive. A startup that originally has just two or three employees, might grow over time, hire freelancers from within the coworking space full time and move to a corner office. This is typical of coworking spaces. They have some of the brightest most industrious minds in the field all working together. That frequently leads to success!
Perks like free coffee/beer/massage chairs and 24/7 access.
Of course, everyone benefits from the office amenities. Coworking spaces like UberOffices in Washington, DC offer free coffee, happy hours, frozen yogurt machines, and massage chairs. The 24/7 accessibility also means that night owls can get work done when a normal office may not allow them access.
Low or no overhead.
For many startups, renting space and furnishing an office is simply out of their price range. This is especially the case if the company grows quickly (as many startups do) and the business is forced to upgrade to a larger space just a few months in. Coworking space allows for low overhead and a variety of different office sizes so as a company grows they can stay onsite for optimal collaboration.
Coworking isn’t for everyone, but for those who are self-employed, freelancing, or starting a business, the benefits are enormous and can lead to a happier, healthier work/life balance and plenty of professional development opportunities.
Hi! Cool post 🙂
I made a video to share the 5 reasons why people should try coworking, take a look! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwrofPuYsHo
So cute. Thanks for sharing!
Love the facts shared. Coworking affords me the opportunity to share ideas and solutions with like minded folks.It’s an attitude to be cultivated.. the attitude of coworking!