According to a survey conducted in February 2023 by the Pew Research Center, approximately 35% of American employees work remotely full-time. This trend, which started in 2020, has continued and is here to stay. But what does this mean? Well, some businesses have incorporated a hybrid model of working both remotely and in-office, while others have gone completely remote. For many, this is a welcome change, but for others, being at home comes with too many distractions. The solution? Co-working.
In basic terms, co-working is an arrangement that allows people from different companies to work together (or independently) in the same space. This space often has features such as communal use of equipment, utilities, and refreshments.
Besides being a place to get things done, co-working spaces also function as community centers, networking venues, and social gatherings. It’s also great for facilitating collaboration. Although co-working seems like a modern concept, it actually dates back to European hacker spaces back in the 90s.
Benefits of Co-working Spaces
As mentioned before, co-working is a great alternative to working from home. Membership fees for using a co-working space may deter some, but we think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
Here are our top five reasons why you should be co-working.
Flexibility
The main draw of co-working is its flexibility. You’re not owning or renting out space like you would in a traditional office, so it’s cost-effective. Also, if you ever need to work while you’re traveling or on the go, there are plenty of co-working options available wherever you are.
Creative Boost
People often need to leave their houses and go elsewhere to get that creative burst of inspiration. For those whose work needs creativity, being in a co-working space may have the inspiration they need.
Being around other professionals and peers may also help when you get a creative roadblock, as you can ask for help or advice.
Community Culture
As we mentioned before, co-working spaces tend to have their own unique sense of community. Since the pandemic has made it harder for companies to build their own rapport and “company culture,” people may be missing that social aspect of work. Co-working communities can recreate that experience, which is missing from virtual workplaces.
Increased Productivity
Working from home has its benefits, but there can definitely be ample distractions that prevent you from finishing your tasks. By joining a coworking office, you can enter a physical environment that helps you stay focused.
At Key Coworking, we offer plenty of options, from open-space desks to conference rooms, that will help you and your team be as productive as possible.
Social and Networking Events
Coworking spaces often host a variety of networking events that allow you to meet professionals from different industries. Having this peer-to-peer network can help you make valuable connections and possibly generate new leads for your business.
Key Coworking hosts a networking event every last Wednesday of the month, so come and join us!
