Co-working spaces are no longer just for small teams and emerging startups. Major companies like Microsoft and GE have also begun to take advantage of the benefits they offer.
This shift is merely part of a larger trend. The rise in popularity of co-working spaces may, in fact, signal an overall change in the way people work. These shared office spaces are certainly on their way to permanently impacting company culture. Luckily, evidence right now indicates this will be a positive change for everyone involved.
The benefits of co-working
It’s becoming clear to many that the gig economy trend isn’t slowing down. In fact, some experts believe that freelancers will make up the majority of the workforce by 2027. Co-working spaces offer the security and amenities of a traditional corporate office that freelancers may still want after leaving their full-time roles.
This is also beneficial to those who adopt the digital nomad lifestyle. This approach to work is becoming increasingly popular. Freelancers, or anyone who has the opportunity to work remotely, sometimes take advantage of their flexible work situation by traveling the world. Co-working spaces ensure they have the resources they need when they arrive at a new destination.
Some people also use co-working spaces when they’re in professional limbo. They may need an office to work on freelance projects while they wait for the job market to improve. A co-working space allows them to continue enjoying the benefits of an office while they’re between jobs.
Businesses can also leverage this shift to their advantage. After all, the freedom to hire remote workers allows businesses to hire the right person for the job, instead of the right candidate who also happens to live near their office. A co-working space can ensure a remote team has the amenities and tools they need to perform their duties from any spot in the world.
Freedom and flexibility for workers
Overall, this trend may represent a change in the way we think about employee welfare. Co-working spaces give freelancers, remote workers, and even full-time hires at growing startups the chance to work on their own terms.
These freedoms include choosing where to live. Depending on the flexibility of their position, they can select a co-working space that offers a much shorter commute than they’ve had in the past.
Additionally, they can browse the options available and select a co-working space that boasts the kind of office culture they find stimulating. They can then decide what resources and amenities they need in order to get work done efficiently and effectively.
This is an empowering shift. Although coworking spaces offer major benefits to companies, the benefits they offer employees are particularly noteworthy. Coworking spaces are becoming more popular because they signal the future of work in general. Not too long from now, the stress and restrictions of a traditional office may become a thing of the past.
Editor’s note: Western New York offers several co-working options, including Cowork Buffalo, Dig (design innovation garage) at the Innovation Center, Her Sanctuary, Inception Buffalo, and the Tri-Main Center.