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Working remotely doesn’t always mean working from home. In fact, 8% of remote workers work from coworking spaces, according to Buffer’s State of Remote Work 2019 report, and that number is likely to grow as remote work arrangements become more popular.
Coworking spaces are shared spaces where remote workers can work, attend virtual meetings, and network with one another at events and happy hours. You’ll get all the amenities of an office — WiFi, monitors, coffee, etc. — without any of the obligation to wait out the clock ’til 5:00.
Should I join a coworking space? 7 coworking space benefits
Here are some major benefits of a coworking space and reasons joining one might take your work to the next level.
1. Grow your network
One of the major benefits of a coworking space is the opportunity to grow your network. You’ll meet interesting people with all sorts of backgrounds and experiences.
Plus, you’ll connect with like-minded people who share similar dreams and aspirations as you do. Rather than feeling like the odd one out among your friend group who works from home, you’ll gain a new community of fellow remote workers and entrepreneurs.
Not only will you find a community that shares your work values, but you’ll also get the chance to learn from people in different fields. If you take advantage of your space’s networking events and happy hours, you could meet new people who end up having a big influence on your career.
2. Boost your mental health
Not only can joining a coworking space help you professionally, but it can assist you personally, too. Even the most devoted remote worker can feel lonely and isolated working from home all the time.
Social disconnection can take a serious toll on your mental health, which in turn makes it harder to get work done and accomplish your goals. But in a coworking space, you’ll get the chance to interact with others throughout the day, even if just with a brief conversation by the coffee maker.
Some coworking spaces also hold informal get-togethers, such as group lunches, and health-boosting events, such as mindfulness meditation sessions and yoga classes.
3. Eliminate distractions from your work day
Procrastination — it’s a constant battle. When you work from home, it can be especially difficult to stay on task, what with the distractions of Netflix just a mouse click away. It’s also tough if you don’t have a quiet space in your home away from family members or roommates.
At a coworking space, you’ll find a space where you can focus for as long as you need. With everyone else typing away around you, your concentration might sharpen, too.
Note that some coworking spaces have a mix of quiet rooms and louder rooms, whereas others are small so everyone is thrown in together in one big space. If you need a silent atmosphere to concentrate, make sure to visit a space before signing up for a membership. This will help you find a coworking space with a noise level and vibe that matches your preferences.
4. Get inspired by a creative environment
Along with getting inspired by the innovative people around you, you’ll also get a boost of creativity from your environment in a coworking space. Most coworking spaces have international design behind them; you won’t find any blank walls or yucky fluorescent lighting.
Instead, you’re more likely to find comfy lounge areas, chalkboard walls, and local art and inspirational quotes hanging on the walls. Coworking spaces often feel like a hybrid office / art space / coffee shop, making them places that inspire creativity and a sense of well-being.
If you’re someone who responds strongly to the aesthetics and energy of your environment, you might gain a lot from working out of a coworking space.
5. Enjoy great amenities without having to purchase them for yourself
Along with all the coworking space benefits, there is a potential drawback: the cost. Some spaces have fairly hefty price tags, especially if you want an unlimited monthly membership.
But while the price tag might give you sticker shock at first, it could actually be more cost-effective in some ways. At a coworking space, you’ll have access to a bunch of amenities and tech essentials, such as unlimited coffee, unwavering WiFi, external monitors, conference rooms, and more, that you might not otherwise have at home.
Sharing the costs with other coworkers could mean you don’t have to manage them all on your own.
6. Get support for your next great business idea
You’ll find a variety of remote workers at coworking spaces, from remote employees to freelancers to entrepreneurs. If you’re starting your own venture, you might meet people that could help you grow your business.
The person sitting next to you might have an idea or connections that will help your company take off. Or you could have conversations that inspire you to keep going even when the going gets tough.
Joining a community of creatives and entrepreneurs could help you along the path toward your professional goals.
7. Gain knowledge from the remote workers around you
Finally, you’ll get the chance to learn from others around you. Whether you’re looking to hone your skills in web design, marketing, user experience, or another field, you’re likely to come across someone at your coworking space in this field.
Many coworking spaces also put on workshops and keynote speaker sessions, allowing members to learn from experts. Once you join, you’ll likely be able to access a directory of your fellow coworkers to see if anyone works in your field of interest.
Coworking spaces have major benefits for remote workers
While there are lots of reasons to join a coworking space, these are just a few coworking space benefits you might enjoy. Of course, not every space will be the right fit for you, so make sure to visit a few options before committing to a membership.
Most spots give you a free day pass if you’re thinking of joining so you can get a feel for the place. If you’ve been wondering ‘Should I join a coworking space?” visiting in-person will help you decide if it’s right for you.
If cost is the deciding factor, remember to compare different types of memberships. Some spaces offer a variety of passes, include day passes, half-day memberships, unlimited “hot desk” memberships, and “dedicated desk” or private office memberships.
Whatever you decide in the end, take time to figure out what you need in your ideal workspace. That way, you can find success as a remote worker while overcoming the challenges that often come with working from home.
