As more and more startups find themselves struggling to stay afloat during the COVID-19 lockdowns, coworking spaces are presenting themselves as lifesavers due to a number of factors. One of these is that coworking spaces help increase productivity in employees and increase efficiency.
One of the core responses towards why that is, i.e., why a shared desk is better than a dedicated desk is because of the overall environment that comes with coworking spaces. Yes, you might miss out on the joys of having a dedicated desk that you can personalize in whatever way you want, but the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
Previously we discussed how coworking spaces help reduce costs for businesses; here, we shall look at one core aspect of that; the increased efficiency of employees.
Coworking Spaces & Increased Efficiency
Give More Control To Employees
Most office buildings must close after 5, or at least turn down their energy usage. That, and as other employees start leaving, those who are working get distracted as well. Subconsciously, their mind tells them that it’s time to leave.
In shared office spaces, this is not an issue since people are coming and going all the time. The ‘work environment’ remains active throughout the day, allowing those who need to meet tight deadlines to work beyond their time.
The constant work environment means that employees’ productivity doesn’t go down, increasing employee and employer satisfaction, ultimately letting employers get better performance appraisals too.
Collaboration Means a More Productive & Conducive Environment
There is a hint of ‘informality’ in shared working spaces which lets employees take breaks without feeling guilty about it, thus letting them relax properly. The more relaxed and stress-free they are, the better they perform.
Sharing a desk or office space with random people also means that there is a certain level of excitement in the workplace that gives employees a reason to get up in the morning. They get to meet new people, learn more about other office cultures and brag about their own when need be.
They also have people to share their problems with, which makes things even easier. The increase in motivation every day because of this means that the environment isn't just more productive but also more welcoming.
For those who don’t like to share, they can also rent out dedicated desks or executive office suits and enjoy the same environment, knowing that there are people working on other floors just as long as they are; if not longer.
Sharing a Desk Is More Than Just Sharing Clutter
The idea of working in a shared office space might seem daunting to some. Too many people walking and talking might put people off, suggesting that it could be rather suffocating. However, that is not the case. Most coworking places have executive office suites and different floors for different offices.
However, people who actually share desks have a different perspective on this. Sharing a desk is more than just sharing their clutter or the noise of other people working, but promotes a culture of collaboration as well.
Employees, whether in the same field or not, are bound to make professional relationships with each other and get an independent opinion from those around about their work. This collaborative relationship works both ways; people help each other out and expect to be helped as well.
For people used to collaborating with each other, cubicles present themselves as a partially enclosed workspace. Take the example of software engineers; they often have to talk to each other and collaborate with the QA team on a regular basis.
If there are cubicles in the way, they present a hurdle to this communication. Messages are sent in a more professional manner, making the work more tedious. Instead, in a shared working space where desks are shared, people can just ask each other about their concerns whenever need be.
Added Services Make Working in Such an Environment Easier
Isn't it amazing when you smell coffee brewing in the morning the moment you step into your office? In most dedicated offices, coffee is either prepared for and brought to your cubicle or you have to go to the break room to make it yourself. You might also find snacks and leisure activities to help you distract yourself from work.
Workspaces used to lack this facility a few years ago, but have quickly adapted to the demand now. Now, instead of just providing leisure activities and a fully stocked pantry, co-working also offers a large number of other services to those working there to make workers more comfortable. These aren’t just de-stressing and healthy activities, but many also offer courses as well to enhance your employees’ careers! Says Qamar Zaman CEO Of KISS PR and Coworking Space Marketing Expert from Dallas.
The rise of coworking spaces like Venture X in Dallas TX and shared desks isn't a coincidence; especially after the COVID-19 lockdowns are over. The environment is much more welcoming for employees and employers alike, promoting collaboration and making life much easier for all!
