Why workers thrive: Three benefits of a coworking space
As early as 2012, a study published in the Journal of Organizational Behavior showed that workers in coworking spaces reported higher contentment levels than those in a traditional office setting.
Fast forward a decade later, and professionals across the globe are continuing to thrive within these innovative hubs, with the global coworking market expected to reach $13,35 billion by 2025, according to a recent Global Coworking Growth Study.
It’s no secret that there are countless benefits of a coworking space. But what is it exactly that makes them so effective?
Sense of community
While coffee and connectivity top the list, what we’ve experienced at Venture Workspace, is that people thrive in coworking spaces due to the flexibility, environment, and a strong sense of community.
“After six years in operation, we have quickly realised that coworking hubs tend to feel more like a close-knit community than a workplace – at least that’s the case at our three offices,” says Louis Fourie, Venture Workspace Founder.
“While there are business networking perks, simply knowing that there are other members available to chat and bounce off ideas provides a strong draw for professionals to truly thrive.”
When it comes to the benefits of a coworking space, he further adds that workers are no longer limited to socialising exclusively with their colleagues every day. They can engage with other professionals from a range of industries, which broadens the scope for new ideas, and encourages knowledge and skill sharing.
“We’ve found that since our members don’t belong to the same organisation, interactions are organic and more relaxed, which enhances a sense of belonging,” Louis adds. “Overall, people come into our offices wanting to connect with others because they choose to, not because they are forced to. Having that healthy environment with those boundaries encourages productivity.”
More flexibility
At face value, one of the more significant benefits of shifting to a coworking space with your team is enhanced flexibility.
“Flexibility is something that most coworking space members really enjoy, but it’s not just having greater freedom with your daily work hours, but how you work,” Louis adds.
Unlike most traditional offices, coworking spaces create the right balance between freedom and structure, which prompts employees to work more efficiently. Individuals have the choice to work in shared areas where they can collaborate with others or quiet, closed-off places to focus.
“Coworking is also ideal for businesses that scale and descale frequently,” he explains. The benefits of a coworking space also extend to the fact that we offer a range of packages according to your team’s needs. Ultimately, everybody has their own personal style of working, so why not customise it according to what works best for you and your workforce?”
A professional environment
Super-fast WiFi. No queues at the copier. Great lighting, air conditioning, and ample space to spread out. Coworking offices conveniently consider all the needs of a modern professional; because of this, they can fully engage in their work with minimal disruptions.
“The ancillary services of our coworking branches include small yet impactful value-adds such as filtered water, fibre connectivity, comfortable desks, communal kitchens, and on-site support teams,” Louis adds. “We also have backup generators for when the electricity cuts.”
He further explains that they take great pride in maintaining their coworking spaces, keeping the designs and layouts functional, vibrant and comfortable. “We want people to get excited about coming into work and hope that by seeing how much effort we put in, they will feel inspired to raise the bar with their own work.”
Here at Venture Workspace, we recognise the importance of flexibility, community, and a healthy work environment. If that’s what you’re after for your next office space, feel free to drop in and see it yourself. We currently operate three branches in Claremont, Constantia, and Somerset West.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do coworking spaces improve productivity?
Coworking spaces improve productivity by providing a professional environment equipped with essential amenities like high-speed WiFi, comfortable workstations, and meeting rooms. These spaces are designed to minimise distractions, allowing individuals to focus on their tasks efficiently.
Beyond the physical setup, coworking spaces create a sense of community and collaboration. Professionals from diverse industries work alongside each other, creating opportunities for networking and idea exchange. This dynamic environment encourages motivation and creativity, ultimately boosting overall productivity.
Why do professionals prefer coworking spaces over traditional offices?
Professionals often prefer coworking spaces due to the flexibility they offer. Unlike traditional offices, coworking spaces allow individuals to choose their working hours and environments, whether they prefer collaborative areas or quiet corners for focused work.
The chance to interact with professionals from various fields can lead to innovative collaborations and a broader professional network. This sense of community and the ability to customise one’s work environment contribute to the growing popularity of coworking spaces.
What makes coworking spaces ideal for small businesses?
Coworking spaces are ideal for small businesses because they offer cost-effective solutions without the long-term commitments of traditional office leases. Businesses can scale their space requirements up or down based on their current needs, providing financial flexibility.
Moreover, coworking spaces often include access to essential office amenities and services, such as meeting rooms and administrative support, which can be costly for small businesses to maintain independently. This allows small businesses to focus on growth and innovation while enjoying the benefits of a fully equipped professional environment.
How do coworking spaces support professional networking?
Coworking spaces support professional networking by bringing together individuals from diverse industries under one roof. This environment naturally encourages interaction and collaboration among members, leading to valuable networking opportunities.
Regular events and workshops hosted by coworking spaces further facilitate networking. These gatherings provide a platform for professionals to share insights, learn from each other, and potentially collaborate on projects. The relaxed atmosphere of coworking spaces also makes it easier for individuals to connect organically, improving their professional networks.
What are the environmental benefits of coworking spaces?
Coworking spaces offer environmental benefits by promoting shared resources and reducing the need for individual office spaces. This shared approach leads to more efficient use of energy and materials, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
Many coworking spaces are located in urban centres, reducing the need for long commutes and encouraging the use of public transport. By creating a culture of sustainability and resource-sharing, coworking spaces play a role in reducing the overall environmental impact of office work.
