Originally published on 7/29/13 at Catalysta.org
Changes in the job market have created a new culture and work ideal. Instead of hoping to work for one company until we retire, the new age has given rise to challenging circumstances on the one hand, and greater choice and flexibility on the other. Now, people have more freedom to change careers, become entrepreneurs, and start their own businesses. Many fresh graduates are unable to find jobs in the corporate world, so they turn to startups and smaller companies.
In order to accommodate this new demographic, establishments known as coworking and shared office spaces are now on the rise. In 2006, according to the 2nd Annual Survey conducted by Deskmag, there were only 30 such establishments around the world. The number has doubled each year since then, with 1,320 as of February in 2012. That’s an increase of 88%. (http://www.deskmag.com/en/1320-coworking-spaces-worldwide-208)
As the job market becomes less traditional and we rely more on the Internet to stay connected, the number of people not working in traditional office settings is expected to increase. What provoked this transition? Why did coworking and office sharing take off?
For those that who have worked from a home office, the situation is not as romantic as it seems. A common complaint is that the workday is endless. Without a clear boundary between work and home, it’s difficult to hit the off switch. Another complaint is that there are far too many distractions. Tasks around the house can easily capture your attention and time. Another common malady is a sense of disconnect from the world outside.
Coworking offers a new way to function that doesn’t require expensive office rentals. Membership rates can be more affordable than leasing offices, and utilities are often included. This offers a flexible, affordable option and the possibility to change according to your needs. Different establishments have their own unique atmospheres. Some do have small offices with desks. But just as common are spaces designed with collaboration in mind. Rather than individual cubicles, there may be a vast room with shared tables and sofas.
In coworking, even though people aren’t working together, they are working under one roof. A simple break for coffee or a two-minute conversation can make the difference in a day. Interacting with others can be energizing. Getting dressed in the morning and interacting with others offers a sense of community and its accompanying satisfaction. Coworking seems to offer the positives of human interaction and community building minus the work-place politics. The potential for collaboration is present, regardless of companies and titles.
Interested in coworking? Do a short Web search and take a tour of different locations – ask about policies, services, prices, and the spaces that they offer. Interested in renting a desk that you can access 24/7? Or, would you rather be in a large space and enjoy the shared energy of a coffee shop atmosphere? Do you need fax machine, printers, and meeting room services, or are you happy to have just a table, coffee, and wifi?
They say that coworking is here to stay. It probably is until the next trend hits.
More information on coworking can be found at Deskmag, the online magazine dedicated to discussions and articles on coworking. If you’re interested in taking a tour at a location near you, take a look at the coworking spaces listed on DeskTime, or see the coworking directories on wiki.coworking.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment