Debunking The Most Common Coworking Myths
However, not everyone is sold on shared workplace environments, which is due mainly to coworking myths incorrectly portrayed by the media.
In this article, we'll disprove many of the coworking myths and explain why they are not true.
"I Don't Fit The Coworker Profile"
Out of all the coworking myths circulating the interwebs, the largest one is that the coworking community is only suitable for certain types of people and companies, namely techies, freelancers and startups. In addition to that, shared offices are filled with millennial types.
This belief is inherently wrong because coworking is for everyone, from solo workers to multinational companies, including Microsoft and Barclays Bank.
In the early days, coworking spaces existed as what was then known as "hackerspaces", where people from similar industries came together to combine their collective grey matter.
Today, although there are niche workplaces like the above, what makes coworking spaces dynamic and unique is the diversity. You'll find people from different backgrounds, ages, sectors and countries working harmoniously together and growing under the same roof.
You'll find people from different backgrounds, ages, sectors and countries working harmoniously together and growing under the same roof.
"I Need A Quiet, Private Space To Work"
Many people who oppose the coworking agenda propel coworking myths like these spaces are loud, crammed with people, and overall, not a place to get work done and be productive.
The opposite is true. Indeed, in open coworking spaces, socialising does occur, but it doesn't take precedence. At the end of the day, people are there to knuckle down just like you.
Furthermore, not all coworking spaces are open offices filled with desks and people. Instead, many flexible workspaces offer various choices, ranging from hot-desking solutions and private offices for small groups and entire suites.
If working from an open room distracts you, select a private room or pod that's suitable for your mode of working. So it is safe to say that these are just coworking myths that people hold on to for no reason.
If working from an open room distracts you, select a private room or pod that's suitable for your mode of working.
"My Team's Productivity Will Fall In The Noisy Atmosphere."
Studies have shown that a buzzing co-working environment plays a positive role in work output. Employees are more engaged, work at peak productivity, and show greater satisfaction and motivation in their jobs in flex spaces.
Furthermore, having access to like-minded people is great for networking and generating new ideas.
"They're Just Glorified Coffee Shops That Look The Same"
- Coworking spaces offer more than great coffee and decent internet.
Typically, coworking spaces feature universal amenities like free WIFI, cool breakout spaces, business lounges, kitchens, and conference rooms.
Beyond the basics, the only fundamental similarities coworking spaces have are the below differences.
- Style
Some coworking spaces are bright, bold, casual, and creative in terms of style, featuring a contemporary fit-out, cool furniture, exciting art, and office greenery. Others might be more characteristic of a corporate work environment, and likely won't include things like a ping pong table or plush bean bag chairs.
- Location
Business locations between coworking spaces vary. Some enjoy the convenience of a city address, while others are closer to residential areas for workers who want to work in the area they live.
Moreover, some workspace providers have a global presence while others only operate locally.
- Service
Coworking spaces are also different in the level of service they invest in. For some, only the physical space is provided, while others offer premium business services, admin support and technical assistance to help you run your business seamlessly.
For some, only the physical space is provided, while others offer premium business services, admin support and technical assistance to help you run your business seamlessly.
"Clients Will Look Down On Me"
Many companies worry that working out of a flex space looks bad for their business.
The negative correlation between flex space and companies is that businesses choose flex space because they've run out of money and options and simply can't afford anything else.
However, the idea that choosing flex space is a reflection of how you're performing financially is inherently wrong.
Although you can save money renting an office in a shared working environment, many top-performing companies choose flex space due to its vibrant atmosphere and vast networking opportunities.
Rather than being seen as a company that can't afford a real office, you'll be regarded as one that's forward-thinking and innovative. You may even find that your zip code helps to enhance your business image.
"There's no room for growth"
One of the other most commonly believed coworking myths is that such places hinder creativity. Many coworking spaces offer work stations to professionals and companies at different growth stages and accommodate their evolving needs as they scale up or downsize with differently sized and configured office arrangements.
Many coworking spaces offer work stations to professionals and companies at different growth stages and accommodate their evolving needs...
"I Don't Have The Budget, And I Don't Need The Space Permanently."
Coworking space offers a diverse array of flexible leasing options geared toward what people need and can afford. These memberships range from a day pass to monthly and annual memberships.
Those who decide to rent full-time may find they're spending less on a flex space than a traditional workspace. This is because not only are all the amenities and utilities included in the price, but the headache and costs of having to set up and maintain an office space are gone.
"It's Not That Different From Renting A Standard Office so Why Bother?"
There are indeed undeniable similarities. However, when it comes to flex spaces, there is far more flexibility.
For starters, you're not locked into a long-term lease, which suits those who might only want to work out of the office part-time.
Secondly, there are fewer opportunities to collaborate and meet new people in a traditional workspace. Whether you're looking to forge a new partnership or pick someone's brains over coffee, the social costs should not be underestimated.
Lastly, as we've previously mentioned - working from a flex space means you don't have to worry about footing various monthly bills and keeping the office maintained while running a business. Your sole focus in these work hubs is future-proofing your business or career.
Let’s get you a coworking space that is nothing like the coworking myths you were told. At Office Hub, you can see reviews, ratings, price, location, pictures, and other details of different coworking spaces in the UK. Then you can decide the one you think is a good fit for you. We have different vendors offering coworking spaces in almost all major cities of the UK. Use the search bar above to filter the results for your desired area.
Whether you're looking to forge a new partnership or pick someone's brains over coffee, the social costs should not be underestimated.
