The Benefits of Coworking For Freelance and Remote Workers
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
In my years of freelance and remote work, I’ve accumulated many house plants: a tropical mini tree, to small cacti, and a few variegated leaf varieties. As you might imagine, my plants take up quite a bit of space in my small home. I have had my share of work-from-home days (other remote or freelancers, you feel me?), and on those days, my plants are often the only other living thing nearby.
With more and more of the US workforce migrating to freelance work or remote work, loneliness is also on the rise. In a survey taken in 2022 82% of employees said they have felt lonely at work around the world. Is it a surprise that houseplant sales are skyrocketing?
Not only that, but our homes (and home offices) usually show the effect of our busy lives. In the midst of life mess happens. Often, we lean on our green friends to offer serenity in the midst of the chaos. Maybe you have an epic home office, but chances are, you are probably making it work with whatever you have — that spare “storage” bedroom, your dining room table, or maybe the couch.
While my house plants are good for a lot of things, one thing is for sure. They can’t overcome the loneliness and messiness of home work environments.
But here is the good news. As a remote or freelance worker, you don’t have to work from home with the company of your house plants. As nice as they are, we have all had days of longing for a clean, pretty, space that we don’t have to be responsible to clean, pick up after, or even move dirty dishes just to have a spot to work. Or, more importantly, the longing for a dedicated space to separate out your work and life. Space to collaborate and network with others effortlessly and have much-needed focused work time.
Coworking could be the solution you’re looking for.
Many working professionals turn to coworking for more than just the perks of a nice space and less distractions. In a traditional work setting, it’s not uncommon for companies to have a large office space in which their employees work. (Images of the The Office coming to you?)
Credit: NBC Universal
While this can be a great way to keep the company “all together” it doesn’t offer natural opportunities for networking with other individuals in similar or completely different fields. Or the flexibility people need to make their best work days work for them.
Coworking spaces are shared workspaces where individuals, typically freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers, can work alongside each other in a collaborative environment. In recent years, the popularity of coworking spaces has grown significantly, with an increasing number of professionals embracing this alternative work arrangement. This trend can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the flexibility that coworking spaces offer, the opportunity to network and collaborate with like-minded individuals, and the sense of community that comes with working in a shared space. Coworking spaces like 25N Coworking are highly curated beautiful work environments that offer a variety of spots to work for the day. And yes, we even have some plants. We welcome you to come see for yourself at our convenient locations in:
Illinois
Texas
From increased productivity to improved work-life balance, coworking spaces have a lot to offer those who choose to work from them. Whether you are a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote worker, coworking spaces can provide you with the support and resources you need to succeed in your chosen profession. So, if you are considering coworking as an option for your work, keep reading to learn more about the many benefits of this flexible work arrangement.
Community
The claim to fame for coworking locations rests on their members. People like you who bring your unique flair to the workforce. Whether you work remote for a large company, or have a start up gig. As the US chamber of commerce points out:
“…workers have an opportunity to keep an open mind when meeting their fellow coworking members. A simple problem-solving conversation can quickly turn into a business opportunity, and a casual working relationship can develop into a strong friendship.”
Coworking benefits also provide a sense of community and support that is often lacking in traditional work environments. One of the main benefits of coworking is the social aspect. Professionals from various industries can interact, socialize, and exchange ideas. This can lead to the development of new business opportunities and collaborations, as well as personal friendships.
25N Coworking Continental Towers Event
In addition to the social benefits, coworking spaces also provide a supportive environment. This can be especially important for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers who may otherwise feel isolated. Having a community of like-minded individuals can help combat feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of belonging. It can also be beneficial professionally, as coworking spaces often offer resources and support such as mentorship programs, networking events, and workshops.
Furthermore, a supportive environment can promote well-being. When individuals feel supported and connected, they are more likely to be productive, motivated, and happy. This can lead to a better work-life balance and overall satisfaction with both personal and professional life.
Productivity and freedom to work
As it has been said before by Lori Greiner(perhaps one of the most famous entrepreneurs);
“Entrepreneurs are the only people who will work 80 hours a week to avoid working 40 hours a week.”
And it’s true isn’t? There often is a motivation that comes when you are doing the work you love. But not having flexible space or set aside time to dive in with the productivity you need is frustrating. There is something to be said for the freedom that coworking brings. When a prospect member chooses to sign up for a coworking, they have the freedom to work when, where, and for however long they desire. This increased freedom to choose where and how to get their work done offers amazing increased productivity. Coming into a 25N space for the day you are met with a big smiles, and a quiet, yet peaceful work environment. Soft music plays in the background and the smell and sips of coffee are always within reach.
Enjoy the benefits coworking including networking, and quick social breaks amidst the deeply productive atmosphere. You can get things done and feel productive. Which is why so many remote works are not just settling for WFH vibes but seeing the benefits of truly embracing coworking.
Designated workstations in coworking spaces are an important aspect of creating a distraction-free work environment. Having a workstation that is solely for work-related activities helps to create a clear separation between work and home life. The positive impact of a distraction-free work environment on concentration and efficiency cannot be overstated. Without the constant interruptions and distractions of a traditional office, employees are able to focus more fully on their work, which can lead to increased productivity and better quality work. By choosing a designated workspace in a coworking space, workers are able to create a work environment that is conducive to concentration and efficiency, resulting in a more successful work-day experience. And, did we mention that many coworking spaces display their plant collections too?
Networking and professional development
Another added benefit of coworking is member events! 25N Coworking offers weekly events in our location spaces for members. There are also bigger events hosted every few months. Coming up at 25N Arlington Heights is a cohosted Oktoberbest themed night of networking and fun with the SBA YOPROS.
You won’t find something like this at your home office! Coworking spaces offer a wealth of professional development and learning benefits to members. One of the most valuable benefits is the opportunity to attend themed event nights, educational workshops, seminars, or guest speaker events. Coworking spaces often organize these events to help their members stay up-to-date on industry trends, cultivate new skills and just have fun with other entrepreneurs.
These events often range from one-hour lunch-and-learns to full-day workshops. They cover a variety of topics, from marketing and sales to project management and leadership. Speakers often include subject matter experts, industry leaders, and successful entrepreneurs who share their insights and experiences.
In addition to providing access to valuable information and networking opportunities, attending these events can also help members build their personal brand and credibility. By showcasing their knowledge and expertise, they can position themselves as thought leaders and attract new clients or job opportunities. Coworking spaces offer a unique and valuable combination of resources that can help professionals grow and succeed in their careers. Whether through educational workshops, networking events, or other resources, these spaces provide a supportive community where members can learn, collaborate, and thrive.
Flexibility and cost efficiency
Now, maybe you are thinking, “Why would I spend money to go to a coworking space when I can save the money and work from home?” Or “Coworking is too expensive for me.” Let’s look at some of the data: A day pass for a 25N Coworking space is $35. Compared to a monthly 24/7 access membership of $199/month. In comparison, do you know how much the average household spends on plants yearly? $608.54. Your plants can’t create a curated work environment for you to enjoy the flexibility and productivity that coworking spaces do.
Whether you need a workspace for a day, a month, or a specific project, coworking spaces offer a variety of options to suit your needs. This enables workers like you, to have greater control over their work environment and schedule, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
Another benefit of coworking spaces is the cost savings compared to traditional office leases. In a traditional office lease, tenants are responsible for all utilities and amenities, which can add up quickly. However, in a coworking space, these expenses are typically included in the membership fee. This means that individuals can enjoy a comfortable and productive work environment without the added financial burden of paying for utilities and amenities.
Coworking spaces also offer a range of amenities that are not typically found in traditional office spaces. At 25N Coworking amenities include high-speed internet, printing and scanning facilities, meeting rooms, high tech LED monitors and Zoom technology and even recreational areas. And best yet as a 25N Coworking member you also have access to all the HR and healthcare benefits. Coworking isn’t just another work office. It offers so much more.
So. Whether you are a mom with a side hustle, a large corporation employee working remotely, or a freelance artist needing space for your next project, coworking spaces empower you to do your best work and thrive in a dynamic work environment. From the value of having a community workspace, to the flexibility and freedom to work how you work best, and expansive networking opportunities, all under a cost effective umbrella, explore the options of coworking benefits for you. And best of all? You can come home from work and still enjoy your plants.