The most significant advantage of a coworking space sparks numerous debates. Is it the fact that it offers greater cost-effectiveness compared to traditional buildings and dedicated offices? Or perhaps it’s the reduced concerns that companies have regarding office equipment? One might even posit that the aesthetically designed interior and facilities serve as compelling reasons for people to choose this space over working from home.
Numerous factors prompt both large and small companies to choose coworking spaces such as Work&Share. Yet, a consensus emerges among them, indicating that the primary advantage of such places lies in the sense of community they cultivate. Shared office spaces bring together a diverse array of people and businesses, creating fertile ground for networking and collaboration. This setting presents a rare opportunity for individuals of varying backgrounds, interests, and ages to convene, share ideas, and effectively bolster productivity—a notion substantiated by studies. Think of it as an ongoing buffet of perspectives where chance encounters with a graphic designer, web developer, or even a lawyer can occur precisely when their expertise is needed most. A recent study further underscores this, revealing that a resounding 82% of co-workers claim their networks have significantly expanded since joining a co-shared workspace.
In today’s landscape, many global enterprises deploy teams to shared workspaces, thereby exposing themselves to novel, innovative ideas from individuals not typically within their network. Collaborative spaces exude a magnetic allure for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers, as the potential for productive conversations with such a diverse cohort is palpable. Even if your company possesses a private office or occupies a floor within a collaborative workspace, employees can still access the building’s common areas. At times, a fresh set of eyes or a different perspective becomes necessary, and obtaining these from individuals unburdened by the expectations or norms of your professional sphere can offer a substantial boost and help you break free from stagnation.
In other scenarios, sharing an office with another company from the same field can prove beneficial. Commonalities abound due to your shared business context, potentially culminating in collaborative efforts for specific projects.
On a more personal note, my tenure at Work&Share has provided me with a lot of knowledge about technology, and I even got the chance to play an official football game in the IT League, thanks to an IT company residing in the same building. I’ve been involved in discussions about fitness and proper dietary practices with architects, discussed cards with individuals from an advertising agency, and engaged in debates about life choices with office managers. I can sincerely say that people from “the outside” who are not part of the industry I work in have given me valuable ideas that have helped me overcome obstacles.
This, to my mind, stands as the paramount advantage of a shared workspace—an opportunity to broaden one’s horizons by finding interesting people with different jobs and perspectives on life. It serves as a space where inspiration can strike from any corner, every single day. A locale that unites people, fostering a palpable sense of belonging.
