Remote Working? Here’s Why You Should Use Coworking Spaces

Are you a remote worker? If so, then you might want to step outside your home and occasionally use coworking spaces.

Yes, coworking spaces are ideal for digital nomads and entrepreneurs. But they’re also a practical solution for remote workers. Whether you are a full-time employee on a remote/hybrid arrangement, or a freelancer working flexible hours, you’ll surely benefit from coworking.

Let’s all agree on one thing. Remote working is simply the best. According to survey information shared by Forbes:  

• 74% of professionals expect remote work to become standard
• 97% of employees don’t want to return to the office full-time
• 61% of employees prefer being fully remote

Meanwhile, people who use coworking spaces – remote workers included – “report levels of thriving that approach an average of 6 on a 7-point scale.” In comparison, this is “a point higher than the average for employees who do their jobs in regular offices,” pointed out HBR.

Here are 5 valid reasons why you should seriously consider signing up to use coworking spaces.

1. You can combat work-from-home isolation

While working from home can be good, it definitely isn’t for everybody. In fact, it can be pretty lonely at times. Working in isolation can eventually cause decreased productivity, along with many other serious concerns.

In an article entitled ‘The Hidden Toll of Remote Work’, The Atlantic explained that going fully remote can lead to “the misery of loneliness.” This, in turn, can result in “depression, substance abuse, sedentary behavior, and relationship damage, among other ills.”

By nature, humans are social creatures. This is why most of us feel better in places where we get to interact with others. Coworking spaces can help fight loneliness by providing a professional environment where people can both work and mingle.

What’s more…

2. You get to expand your professional circle when you use coworking spaces

Another obvious advantage of coworking is that customers get to grow their networks.

As a coworking member, you share the space with other professionals and innovators from various fields of industry. You could be sitting next to an e-commerce expert today and then a graphic artist tomorrow. You could also be sharing the kitchen with startup owners, SEO specialists, video game developers, copywriters, and more.

Compared with going to the same office with the same workmates daily, coworking is way more dynamic and unpredictable. You’re always surrounded by people with a diverse set of skills, talents, and experiences. You get to make meaningful connections with potential collaborators and mentors who can help you with current and future projects.  

3. You’ll be more inspired and efficient

You can enjoy an atmosphere that encourages positivity and creativity when you use a coworking space. You’ll have the stability and routine of a professional workplace but without the office politics. Needless to say, it’s also an entirely different vibe than working from your couch or from a local coffee shop. Common distractions are eliminated and you’re more able to focus on your tasks.

Of course, it is likewise worth noting that most coworking spaces are open 24/7.

This means you can work anytime, depending on your preference. You can come in as early or leave as late as you please. You can stay for long hours to meet a deadline or even just spend a few hours on a single project. No one will judge you. You’re in charge!

4. You will have an on-site support system

In addition to fellow members, you can expect to receive support from the coworking space’s community manager. Among this person’s responsibilities is ensuring that every customer can make the most of their coworking membership. They will make you feel welcome and will likely send you information and invitations about upcoming community events.

If you have any questions or concerns, the community manager is your best bet. So don’t think twice about approaching and asking them. You can bet that they’ll be more than happy to help you out.

5. You get to attend fun community events

As mentioned above, you’ll get invites to different activities and events when you use coworking spaces. Some examples of coworking community events include:

• Board game nights
• Leadership workshops
• Live music nights
• Marketing tips and tricks
• Panel discussions
• Product launches
• Social parties
• Speed networking
• Wine tasting
• Yoga classes

Community events give you the opportunity to unwind and learn at, say, the end of a long week. So by all means, free up your schedule and pick specific events that spark your interest. Count on these events to provide you with more chances to socialize and network among your fellow coworking users.

Final word

Coworking spaces aren’t going away anytime soon as experts predict they will continue to grow and stay relevant in the years ahead. In fact, the sector has “done relatively well in the past two years when compared to other sectors in the real estate market,” reported Entrepreneur.

It definitely goes without saying that all these benefits are just the tip of the iceberg. While there may be some commuting involved, starting to use coworking spaces is well worth it if you consider the many advantages.  

We encourage you to take your time and compare available coworking options in your city. Look for one located nearby so you can minimize travel time. More importantly, check out the cost and features to ensure that you end up with the right provider. Besides, some coworking firms offer more perks – and more locations – than others. This could be a crucial factor, especially if you’re the type of remote worker who often travels.

Best of luck and may you find the right coworking space that matches your needs and budget!

*Featured image source: Unsplash