One trend that has been growing in the working world in recent years is coworking – where individuals from different professions work in a shared space. The concept may still be new to some, but it has already become a preferred work arrangement for many. In this blog post, we will outline the benefits of coworking, specifically focusing on freelancers using these spaces, as well as the advantages of coworking for small businesses. We also look at and compare traditional offices verse coworking spaces and determine which one could be better for you.
Briefly mentioned above, coworking is a style of work that involves sharing a work environment with like-minded individuals. It’s based on the concept of sharing resources and amenities, such as office space, internet connections, and other business-related services. Although the physical environment of a coworking space offers many benefits to freelancers or small business owners, there are many other benefits that come with working from such a space, as outlined below:
Cost Savings
One trend that has been growing in the working world in recent years is coworking – where individuals from different professions work in a shared space. The concept may still be new to some, but it has already become a preferred work arrangement for many. In this blog post, we will outline the benefits of coworking, specifically focusing on freelancers using these spaces, as well as the advantages of coworking for small businesses. We also look at and compare traditional offices verse coworking spaces and determine which one could be better for you.
Briefly mentioned above, coworking is a style of work that involves sharing a work environment with like-minded individuals. It’s based on the concept of sharing resources and amenities, such as office space, internet connections, and other business-related services. Although the physical environment of a coworking space offers many benefits to freelancers or small business owners, there are many other benefits that come with working from such a space, as outlined below:
Access to Resources
Coworking spaces offer access to resources that small businesses may not have otherwise. These resources include high-speed internet, printing, scanning, and faxing services, conference rooms, and event spaces. Coworking spaces also offer access to a network of professionals such as accountants, lawyers, and marketers who can help small business owners grow their business.
Networking Opportunities
One of the main benefits of coworking is the networking opportunities it presents. When you work in a shared space, you get to meet different people, and you never know when you might meet someone who could benefit your business. You could meet potential clients or collaborators, and you could also be a resource for them. Coworking spaces often host events, meetups, and workshops, giving you even more opportunities to network.
Productivity
Working from home may seem like a dream come true, but it can also be a nightmare. There are so many distractions at home; the TV, chores, and family members who may not respect your work hours. Coworking spaces are specifically designed to provide a focused work environment, giving you the chance to be more productive. Furthermore, co-working spaces are equipped with everything you need to do your job. This means you don’t have to worry about setting up your workstation or managing IT support.
Flexibility
Coworking spaces offer different arrangements, which provides you with the flexibility to choose what works best for you. You could do monthly, weekly or even daily rental, enabling you to pick a plan that suits your schedule and budget. Furthermore, since coworking spaces typically offer 24-hour access, you can work at your preferred time, making it easy for night owls or early birds.
Improved work-life balance
Working from home can often blur the lines between work and personal life since there is no physical separation between your workspace and your home. Coworking, on the other hand, gives you a work-home balance, allowing you to leave work when you leave the shared space. Coworking spaces also offer opportunities for relaxation and socialisation, which can also benefit your mental and emotional health.
As seen from the above, coworking spaces offer several advantages to small businesses, from cost savings to increased productivity, access to resources, and networking opportunities. They provide a professional environment that fosters collaboration and community, which can be hard to find in a traditional office or home office setting. Freelancers and small business owners can benefit greatly from working in a coworking space, making it an excellent option for entrepreneurs and growing businesses.
As coworking continues to grow from strength to strength, it appears that the appeal of the traditional office setting is diminishing, however choosing the right workspace is essential to one’s productivity and overall satisfaction with their job – and not everyone has the same ideals. Below we will look at and compare the differences between traditional offices and coworking spaces.
Traditional Offices
Traditional offices are physical spaces where employees come to work for a particular company. A traditional office is a private office space dedicated to one business. It usually means one business leasing one to multiple floors, or a whole building. They can be set up exactly to your specifications to suit your business’s needs. Let’s look at the benefits of a traditional office setting:
One of the benefits of traditional offices is that they expect a high level of professionalism. Traditional offices are professional environments that can promote a strict corporate culture. Traditional offices can offer more defined roles and structured working environments.
Traditional offices can also provide better security compared to coworking spaces. Confidentiality is essential to many businesses, and a traditional office space can offer a more secure environment.
Traditional offices usually have better IT support and dedicated IT staff, making it easier to fix any technical issues quickly.
Unlike coworking spaces, traditional offices offer personal space to employees. This allows them to have a specific area to work, store their belongings, and have an established routine.
A benefit for employers is that they have more control over their employees’ work schedules and habits when they work in a traditional office.
Coworking Spaces
These spaces are available to anyone and can offer a professional environment for remote workers. Some of these benefits of coworking have been mentioned previously, but include:
Coworking spaces are in convenient locations, making them easily accessible for individuals that may not want to waste money and time commuting to a traditional office.
Coworking spaces often offer more flexible terms and often require less commitment than traditional office leases, allowing businesses to adjust their space needs quickly.
Coworking spaces are often more affordable than traditional office leases, especially for small businesses or startups that may not have the resources for a full office rental.
Coworking spaces often offer a variety of workspace options, including private offices, dedicated desks, or shared working spaces. Traditional offices generally offer fewer options and may require more fixed layouts or furniture configurations.
Coworking spaces are designed to foster collaboration and networking between members, providing opportunities for business partnerships or professional development.
Coworking spaces offer a wide range of amenities designed to make work more comfortable and convenient, such as in-house cafes, fitness centers, and event spaces. Traditional offices may offer fewer amenities or none at all.
Both coworking spaces and traditional offices have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice between a coworking space or traditional office depends on a variety of factors. Coworking spaces offer flexibility, affordability, and a collaborative working environment, while traditional offices offer professionalism, better security, and personal workspace. Individuals looking for networking opportunities, flexibility and affordability may choose to work in a coworking space, while those seeking a structured work environment, better security, and personal workspace may choose a traditional office.
At Connect Space, we offer professional, yet comfortable coworking spaces in all three of our locations: Mount Edgecombe, Musgrave and Umhlanga. Get all the benefits of working in an office such as technology, community, a productive environment and great coffee, with the flexibility of homeworking. Reserve a desk or simply hotdesk on an ad-hoc basis with access to all the communal facilities and membership areas.
To find out more email: info@connectspace.co.za
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We are Connect Space! Humans spend so much of their lives working, striving to find purpose and create a meaningful impact. The world of work has changed so drastically, yet one truth has endured – humanity is better when we work together. With a focus on creating collaborative workspaces, at Connect Space we tailor our space offerings to our Client’s needs, making areas that are unavoidably productive with agreement terms that suit your business.
Need an hourly rate for hot desking? We can do that. Need a weekly solution while you’re in town? We have you covered. We pride ourselves in going the extra mile to formulate the best agreements with our so they can focus on what they do best.
Our 3 locations in Musgrave, Umhlanga and Mount Edgecombe are conveniently located close to major transport routes. We offer a prestigious address that includes serviced offices, meeting rooms and coworking spaces, with fast and reliable wifi and shared break-out areas – perfect for meeting others and collaboration.
Better together – Let’s connect and see how we can accommodate you and your business’s needs!
