Why Coworking is More Than Just Sharing Office Space
Author: Chatty Garrate
Over the past few years, there has been a significant surge in the popularity of coworking spaces. These shared office spaces offer an exciting opportunity for social impact professionals to work in a community-driven environment that encourages productivity, growth, and networking. However, coworking spaces are much more than just shared office spaces. They provide a range of features tailored to the needs of social impact professionals and offer an opportunity to build a thriving community that fosters creativity and collaboration.
What is a coworking space?
In essence, coworking involves individuals gathering in a shared space to work independently on diverse projects or collaboratively on the same project. Unlike a typical office setting, the individuals in a coworking environment do not necessarily work for the same company. Coworking spaces provide amenities that are commonly found in conventional office settings, as well as additional features.
One of the main benefits of coworking spaces is their flexibility, as they often do not require a long-term lease commitment. Every coworking space typically offers essential facilities such as WiFi, printers, conference rooms, and additional amenities such as coffee, tea, and snacks.
Why is coworking popular now?
The primary reason lies in the positive impact it has on people's lives. Workers thrive in this type of environment that emphasizes community and human connection, going beyond mere productivity. Within shared office spaces, professionals have ample opportunities to network and interact with individuals from diverse companies. This fosters a strong sense of community, which is often lacking when working from a home office.
Moreover, community-driven coworking spaces offer a valuable sense of flexibility by remaining open 24/7. This empowers workers to choose the hours that align with their personal preferences and enhance their overall well-being. Compared to traditional offices, these coworking spaces provide a dynamic and engaging workplace that prioritizes the quality of life, making them an excellent choice for remote workers seeking focus and fulfillment.
What are the benefits of coworking spaces for social impact professionals?
Coworking spaces are not just shared office spaces; they offer a range of benefits that can enhance the work and well-being of social impact professionals. Let's explore some of the advantages.
Community
Coworking spaces go beyond being just a workspace, as they cultivate an inclusive environment that nurtures social connections and collaboration among like-minded individuals. Within these spaces, social impact professionals can find invaluable support, motivation, and networking opportunities, free from the hierarchical dynamics often present in traditional office settings. By sharing their work environment with others who share a common passion for creating positive change, co-workers have the chance to form partnerships and initiate projects, unlocking exciting new avenues for collaboration and making a meaningful impact.
Support for projects
Lastly, coworking spaces themselves may think of ways to support your project. Film screenings, lunch and learns, fundraisers, outreach events like non-profit expos, workshop-your-workshop, and other events can help build excitement around your project and connect you with other professionals who can offer valuable insights and support.
Mixing
One of the benefits of coworking for social impact professionals is the opportunity to connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Coworking spaces provide the opportunity to develop personal relationships with potential partner organizations. By working in a shared space, you're likely to encounter organizations that you didn't know about, and you can walk down the hall and chat over coffee with the executive director that your boss wanted to make a connection with. Coworking spaces are a great way to meet new people and expand your professional network.
Productivity
One of the critical benefits of coworking spaces is productivity, as they offer the right distractions that can help break the monotony of a long workday and stimulate creative thinking. With amenities like a coffee bar and lounge area, social impact professionals can keep themselves fueled throughout the day without leaving the workspace. Additionally, coworking spaces provide the necessary separation between home and work, which can reduce stress and improve mental health.
Meeting space
If you need to have meetings, coworking spaces have you covered. Meeting spaces are included in membership, and they offer a professional setting to entertain clients and make connections. Moving from a digital Zoom background to an in-person human connection can make a big difference in building trust and strengthening relationships.
Final thoughts
Coworking spaces offer social impact professionals a unique opportunity to work in a community-oriented environment that encourages support, connection, and well-being. The range of features and benefits of coworking spaces is vast, making them much more than shared office spaces.
If you're looking for a way to take your career to the next level, coworking is worth considering, and theDock may be your workspace. Our space offers a wide range of amenities, opportunities for professional development, and potential partnerships with other organizations. Take the chance to take your work to the next level and make meaningful connections with like-minded professionals. Book a free trial day!