What Is a Coworking Space and Other FAQs About Shared Work Spaces

These days, there are so many options that make it possible for business owners to run their business without renting an office space. One of them is coworking. Here, we’ll talk about what is a coworking space as well as other FAQs about shared workspaces.

You haven’t spoken to another adult in 2 days. You forgot to put on pants today. You can’t recall the last time you left the house.

These are the comical, yet real-world struggles of someone who works from home.

Enter shared workspaces. The flexible office space option that freelancers, small businesses, and startups are going nuts over.

By the year 2020, we can expect 5.1 million people to be members of co-working environments.

So, what is a coworking space and why should you consider it? Read on for everything you need to know about the new mainstream in business.

What Is a Coworking Space?

It’s a professional melting pot of like-minded individuals working under the same roof. But for different companies.

Membership provides access to a hub of different talents. All coming together for the sake of office space.

You can expect to see a bright, open room with joined desks. It’s where workers collaborate and socialize together. But each has their own workspace to complete tasks or projects.

Shared working spaces often operate on a “hot desk” system. There are also separate conference spaces for members to hold private meetings.

All the same office equipment, services, and perks still apply. The following is often included in the shared office setting:

• Internet access
• Phone system
• Copier, printer, fax
• PBX system
• Mail sorting system
• Comfortable and ergonomic furniture
• Secure file cabinets
• Cleaning service

You’ll also see innovative break rooms and common areas. As well as bathrooms and kitchens, coffee included.

The whole scene feels laid-back and casual, a remote writers dream. Unlike the more structured corporate office so many get used to. What are coworking spaces if not a business community with their own unique work culture?

Flexible plans and membership options make it easy to join a coworking facility. Many companies also offer offices in more than one location. This allows you to access office space in different neighborhoods, cities, or states.

Who Needs a Coworking Space?

While there are many freedoms of freelancing, it doesn’t always offer the same support system that you’ll find in an office environment. It can also fall short on adult interaction and social opportunities.

Co-working is appealing to self-employed individuals, small business owners, and entrepreneurs. It meets all the office space needs of freelancers, contract writers, and telecommuters.

It’s an innovative alternative to working from home, a local library, or coffee shop. It’s also flexible in that you can schedule space on a daily, monthly or yearly need.

It removes the isolation that can come from working at home. You feel part of a team and have a greater sense of community.

Perfect for Businesses, Small to Large

Co-sharing is less maintenance and more affordable than renting your own office. Which makes it the perfect set up for startup ventures. Growing businesses can start small with a few rented workspaces, and expand as needed.

Larger businesses can also benefit when experiencing an excess of employees. When office space gets limited, they can turn to a co-working facility.

This is also helpful for businesses who are undergoing construction on their office. Or those moving office locations, so no work gets lost or time wasted.

Coworking office spaces are often located in well-developed areas with desirable addresses. Location is important for business and makes an impression on clients. Placing your office in the wrong location is a small business mistake to avoid.

It’s all the professionalism and convenience of an office. Without the extra expenditures, upkeep, and liability.

What Can You Expect from a Coworking Environment?

It’s an environment conducive to creativity. A coworking space business model promotes productivity, sustainability, and accessibility.

You will find a team environment, full of like-minded individuals with similar goals. Members often collaborate and connect, making it a great place to network.

The synergy and focus of shared working spaces help people to thrive. Compared to more traditional office spaces, co-workers have a better outlook on their work-life balance. They are happier and feel more in control of their career.

A positive work environment leads to higher productivity. Here are more tips for improving your work-life balance.

Shared working provides resources and office culture. Without all the politics and hierarchy drama. It’s a place of diversity, with a range of skill sets, knowledge, and project scopes.

Full Access and Fewer Distractions

Members often have 24/7 access to their coworking space. They experience fewer distractions and more flexibility in their schedules.

Working from home may be comfortable, but it brings forth distractions and interruptions. Television, pets, and your big comfortable couch to name a few. Coworking spaces take you out of your comfort zone, and into an environment conducive to productivity.

Some co-sharing facilities even offer in-house networking events. Or other membership perks, such as fitness classes or local gym discounts.

Over 20% of the population works freelance. So, expect a thriving atmosphere of movers and shakers in all different industries. Members grow and learn together, often striking business deals amongst each other.

What Does the Future Hold?

The future is moving towards an alternative kind of workforce. They are embracing the convenience of technology to set new norms in work-life balance.

People are molding themselves into on-demand professionals. They are moving away from the strict 9 to 5 corporate lifestyle.

They are working side gigs while pursuing personal passions and professional goals. Such as driving for Uber part-time. Or posting their creative portfolios on sites such as Upwork.

The freelance economy is only expected to grow from here. It’s estimated that by the year 2020, 50% of people will dabble in freelance. This will pave the way for an increased need in shared office space.

These shared spaces provide a more sustainable economy. People are sharing space, electricity, and office supplies.

Co-spaces also promote a digital lifestyle. They use sharing software like Dropbox and Google Docs, rather than endless filing cabinet systems. It’s organized and innovative, allowing members to thrive.

Virtual offices are popping up all over the world. They help entrepreneurs and small business owners with the basic stepping stones of starting a company.

Your clients receive customer service through virtual answering services or administrative assistants. A virtual business address also works well for mail and deliveries.

Coworking for Innovation and Creativity

What is a coworking space, if not a place to let your creativity and ideas flourish? It’s an innovative approach, meeting the needs of freelancers to small business owners.

Learn more about how a coworking atmosphere can benefit your business needs.

It’s a place where you can be as independent or team-oriented as you wish. You can even strike a business deal or two.