Five Reasons Why Co-Working Is Good For Business And Good For You

Every working week used to be the same. The nation’s workforce would trudge into the office at 9, remain shoehorned to their desk until 5, and then trek back home for dinner and a well-earned breather.

But times have changed. Working life has changed. It’s now faster, more demanding, and never sleeps.

There’s one big positive though: new technologies have enabled work to become more flexible. With high-speed Internet we can work anywhere and anytime. The shackles are finally off!

These remarkable improvements in connectivity have led to the rise of co-working spaces. Here are five reasons why co-working is so popular and why many people prefer it to working from home …

1. Co-working boosts productivity

Working from home is great – in theory. But think of all the distractions: TV, games consoles, books … the list goes on. And don’t forget about the inevitable interruptions too. It can be absolute pandemonium when the kids get home or the dog starts barking.

Co-working means you can escape these diversions. You can focus on work alongside other busy bees in a hive of business activity. Watching others knuckle down will motivate you and help you stay on track.

You’ll also learn how fellow co-workers operate. They might have tips on maximising your time. And because co-working spaces include people from diverse sectors, you’ll learn new things and get the inside track on different industries.

2. It’s a great chance to network

Co-working spaces are thriving infrastructures that help you make new contacts and win new business referrals. You’ll get to know professionals with different skills – expertise you might need one day – plus you’ll be in pole position to win new work should your co-workers require your own skills.

Informal chats in communal kitchens often lead to lucrative opportunities in co-working spaces. Collaborating with fellow professionals is also simple in shared working environments.

3. Co-working is flexible

Whether you’re a freelancer, sole trader, or starting your own business, co-working provides a comfortable and convenient location that doesn’t tie you down. There’s no long-term commitment – you can usually give a month’s notice – so there’s maximum freedom.

Co-workers can scale up at their own pace by hiring an extra desk or a small office. You can scale down too. You’ll never be stuck with a workplace that costs too much or no longer suits your needs. Plus you’ll never overpay for cleaning bills or other overheads.

4. The companionship

Human interaction does us the world of good. Co-working is therefore a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of working remotely without the isolation of working from home. It’s the best of both worlds: all the independence without the loneliness.

Co-workers often establish strong friendships with each other too. They’re wired similarly and have something in common to talk about when they meet.

They also talk glowingly about the camaraderie. You can socialise without the usual office politics. Nobody has an agenda in co-working spaces.

5. It boosts your mental health

Research shows that people feel happier when their day has structure. Co-working gives you somewhere to go every morning and a place to return home in the evening.

The commute itself also has benefits. A short walk or cycle can raise your heartbeat, boost your energy levels, and set you up for the day ahead.

Finally, co-working helps you to separate your home life from your working life. You can come home, shut the door and switch off. It’s harder to relax when you work from home; the temptation to check emails and work later is stronger.

Call 01795 531622 to find out more

If you love working flexibly then co-working could be right up your street. You’ll enjoy regular social interaction, be plugged into a network of fellow professionals, and enjoy a feeling of belonging rather than seclusion.

However, co-working isn’t just an alternative to office life. It’s a contrast but it can also be a complement …

If you’re a salaried professional and you want a second base that’s quiet, comfortable, and close to home then co-working might be the answer. It’s somewhere you can escape to – a change of scenery that inspires fresh ideas and unearths new relationships.

Whitstable Office Space offers a number of co-working spaces with an allocated desk and free Wi-Fi. You can also rent small offices for up to five people with a dedicated parking space. Call 01795 531622 or email info@whbreading.co.uk to arrange a visit.