Exploring Common Misconceptions and Examining the Reality of Coworking
The term ‘coworking’ has become a global buzzword, when not long ago, it was considered a fad by many. Studies surrounding shared workspaces worldwide have shown the number of spaces is projected to reach 25,968 by 2022 – an increase of 42 percent from 2019. Considering those numbers, the shared workspace movement has surpassed trend status and landed in the mainstream.
From a bigger picture perspective, coworking is still a relatively new idea. Despite the demonstrated staying power of coworking in our ever-evolving business market, there are still plenty of misconceptions about the practice. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths of coworking.
Coworking spaces are just office spaces
It’s true that coworking means a nicer place to work than your kitchen table and that these spaces offer the same kind of organizational framework as a traditional office environment. But, the idea that a coworking space is equal to an office is an assumption that sells its advantages short. For example, typical lease agreements for office space start at one year and go up from there. Coworking spaces offer flexible month-to-month terms, so you’re able to sign shorter contracts. You can choose from a shared desk, a dedicated desk or a private office to suit your specific work needs. Whether you do your best work in a collaborative environment or need to work on sensitive projects behind the security of a closed door, flexibility is always present. Coworking facilities can also serve as an event space for your next professional gathering or provide specialized IT services to tackle your trickiest tech demands. Options available from a coworking facility can provide resources and support that the standard leased office building can’t deliver.
It’s expensive to rent a coworking space
High-quality, upscale coworking spaces include so many benefits, it must mean higher cost to gain access to their membership, right? Not exactly. Coworking bridges the cost gap between working at home and the expense of renting a full-fledged office. Memberships are convenient, flexible and vary based on the plan you decide to opt into. Plans provide an array of service levels from a shared desk a few times a month to a private office every day. If your work habits don’t require the structure of a professional environment Monday through Friday, you may benefit from a plan that includes day passes. If you frequently work late into the evenings or on weekends, a workspace with 24/7 access via a key card may be a better fit. Whether you need a professional business address with a full-time desk and dedicated filing cabinet or a shared desk a few days a month, you can be sure to enjoy your membership knowing that you’re getting the best value.
Coworking spaces are too noisy and disruptive
Coworking spaces are populated by professional individuals with an awareness that everyone is there to do their job. In an environment full of like-minded people focused on completing their tasks or projects, consideration is taken to keep noise at the appropriate level for conducting business. Plus, with community memberships that allow workers to connect with each other, you can get to know the people you’re working around, building meaningful relationships and fostering a respectful working environment free of distraction. For those who find it difficult to concentrate from a home office rife with personal distractions, you may be pleasantly surprised to see your productivity increase in a shared workspace. Placing yourself in a new environment with boundaries between your work and personal life is more conducive to professional focus and creativity.
Only freelancers or startups can use coworking spaces
Coworking facilities direct a lot of support toward entrepreneurs and startups to offer affordable workspace, as well as promote growth and opportunity on a local level. However, this doesn’t mean other professional workers are excluded from the coworking experience. Anyone who needs a professional place to work is gladly received and encouraged to explore membership within a shared workspace. You’ll meet a diverse community of people from a broad spectrum of industries. Stepping outside the proverbial box of your career viewpoint can be a great way to begin the networking process and eventually make growing your business easier. Freelancers, startups, remote workers, small- and medium-sized companies are all known to call a shared working space their office.
People who use coworking spaces must be social
You can work how and when you want to in a shared workspace. While, the opportunity to network in your shared workspace is a valuable one, no one expects you to chat over coffee all day. That being said, don’t completely write off getting to know the people who share a space with you. Networking from your workspace opens a lot of opportunity for you to meet like-minded individuals, discover shared interests and develop relationships. If you’re a freelancer or small business owner, it’s not uncommon to feel you’re out of the loop on industry trends or isolated from a career community. Coworking helps ease that pressure by opening you up to a group of people whose skills may help you tackle your challenges or suggest resources for running and growing your business. And remember, coworking spaces offer private offices. If you utilize a private office plan, it will be up to you how much time you spend in the community area.
Today’s modern workforce needs a modern workspace
The business world is changing. The Bureau of Labor statistics estimated that about 65 million Americans will be freelancers, independent contractors and solopreneurs by 2020, accounting for about 40 percent of the workforce. Established companies are exploring more ways to save on employee workspace. As a relatively young idea, the concept of coworking is frequently misunderstood, but identifying and debunking these popular myths illustrates the broader value of a shared workspace.
At Venture X, our modern coworking facilities provide flexible workspace solutions. Whether your company is established or just beginning, medium-sized or a solo operation, we offer membership plans that provide high quality and excellent value.
Call Venture X today to schedule a tour and learn what coworking is really all about.
