We’re moving full-steam ahead into transitioning workspaces with employers catering to hybrid work, scaling back on overhead, and moving into the future of remote work. And when it comes to creating the workplace landscapes that we need … fortunately, it isn’t one size fits all.
The modern workplace is shifting to more dynamic environments, and co-working spaces that promise collaboration, innovation, and a refreshing dose of inspiration are the latest move.
The Optimal Workspace
Business owners are embracing flexibility and freedom and are working in ways that work best for them, their people, and their businesses. The optimal hybrid workspace combines flexibility and structure and creates curated environments where employees can seamlessly switch between collaborative hubs and focused corners.
Leaning into reliable technology, comfortable furniture, and spaces designed for both group discussions and solo tasks, the hybrid workspace fosters productivity and creativity, enabling teams to thrive in this new era of work.
Why Co-Working?
Coworking spaces ignite creativity and collaboration. Bringing together diverse minds and knowledge into a shared space creates a cross-pollination of ideas that leads to what we call knowledge spillovers. Co-working creates spaces that cultivate an atmosphere of innovation, shared expertise, and fresh insights and collaborations that wouldn’t have happened within traditional office silos.
Successful CoWorking Spaces
Successfully transitioning into a coworking environment requires strategy and direction, creating the environment best suited to maximize your employee’s productivity, wellness, and job satisfaction overall. To start, business owners and managers need to ask two key questions:
1. What Environment Do You Want to Create?
Does this environment need to foster creativity, problem-solving, encourage collaboration, host meetings, and provide private space? What kind of space will optimize productivity and results?
2. How will employees want to work?
Do you have small or large business needs? Do employees need a personally dedicated space or a hot desk approach?
Five Tips to Maximise Your CoWorking Space
Co-working should be a mix of flexibility, dedication, and unparalleled creativity. Regardless of the combination of those elements you want to mix, here are five key things to keep in mind when transitioning to your coworking space:
1. Create a Culture of Communication:
Transitioning from a conventional office to a coworking space it’s essential to foster an environment of open communication. Be transparent and address any concerns or questions your team has head-on. Host town hall meetings, fireside chats, or virtual Q&A sessions to help employees understand the rationale behind the shift.
2. Tailor the Transition:
One size doesn’t fit all, and neither does a standard transition plan. Tailoring the transition process to fit different departments and roles can make all the difference. Some teams might require more collaborative spaces, while others could thrive in quieter corners. Allow teams to have a say in their new workspace setup.
When employees feel empowered to make decisions about their environment, they’re more likely to take ownership and excel in the coworking setting.
3. Embrace Technology:
With the rise of remote work and virtual collaboration, technology is the backbone of our workflows and coworking spaces are no exception. Equip employees with the necessary tech tools—laptops, high-speed internet, video conferencing equipment—to ensure seamless communication and productivity. Make tech support readily available, so your employees can troubleshoot any glitches without skipping a beat.
4. Foster a Sense of Community:
Encourage your employees to engage through team-building activities, workshops, and networking events to create a sense of community within the shared space. Host networking events, education breakfasts and offer wellness-focused bonuses (like monthly yoga classes or discounted memberships).
5. Balance Flexibility and Routine:
Encourage coworkers to strike a balance between the freedom of coworking and the structure of a daily routine. Set clear expectations for work hours and availability, to ensure that flexibility doesn’t compromise productivity. Create a shared calendar for team meetings and collaboration sessions to maintain a sense of structure amidst the co-working chaos.
Essentials for Success in New Flex or Coworking Office Spaces:
Having the essentials met, there are a few creature comforts that can’t be missed:
- Establish Security:
Putting security systems and protocols in place is important for employees to feel comfortable, confident, and secure at work. Access cards, on-site security, and video cameras are a good place to start.
Consider secure storage for employees to leave valuables and work essentials when they step out.
- Volume Control:
While coworking spaces are buzzing with activity, there are times when a little peace and quiet are necessary. Noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer that allows your employees to focus on tasks without getting distracted by the energy around them. Have some considerations and rules in place about volume control and noise levels during different times of the day.
- Think Comfort:
Create multiple spaces around the office that cater to different comfort levels and needs. Have dedicated collaboration spaces, dedicated focus zones, and soundproof spaces for meetings. Decorate with comfortable, adaptable furniture that can serve multi-functional purposes and have a combination of lounge and alert work options.
Embracing the change from traditional offices to coworking spaces might seem like a leap of faith, but with the right approach and a sprinkle of enthusiasm, you can make the transition an easy one.
Need a little extra guidance and help planning the perfect space?
