Community & Connection: Is Coworking the Answer?

The rise in home working structures has reshaped the professional landscape, offering flexibility and freedom but often at the expense of human connection.

Many remote workers find themselves feeling isolated, missing out on the camaraderie and spontaneous interactions that occur in traditional office settings. This begs the question: Can coworking spaces provide the sense of community and connection that remote work lacks?

Working from Home vs Coworking... is it really so different?

WFH and coworking each have their advantages, but when it comes to feeling part of a community, we've got to give it to the latter.

Undeniably, WFH has its benefits - no more commutes, full accessibility, convenience and is ideal for many people. However, according to Ringover’s 2024 Loneliness at Work survey, home workers reported feeling lonely 98% more often than their fully onsite counterparts and 179% more often than those in hybrid roles. Yikes.

We believe coworking offers a happy medium, in a structured environment where individuals can work independently while still engaging with others.

What Makes a Coworking Space 'Community-Centric'?

Hint: It's more than just desks and Wi-Fi. At Space Coworking, community is at the heart of everything we do. When you exist in such a small seaside town, it's hard for it not to be! However, finding the balance between a productive workspace and a social one can be tricky, and understanding what works can take a while. In our experience, these three things are often at the core:

• Common Areas and Shared Spaces: Cosy surroundings and communal tables encourage casual conversations and spontaneous networking. Often, what started as a casual chat can lead to a fruitful business partnership, and this is one of our favourite things about running a coworking space. We like to keep our kitchen stocked with good coffee for this very reason!

• A Personal Touch: Using a new coworking space can be daunting, so dedicated staff who facilitate introductions and maintain a welcoming atmosphere are essential. Bonus points if they can recommend the best spots in town for lunch!

• Mutual Appreciation:  Highlighting member achievements fosters a sense of belonging and connection that you may miss when working remotely. So, if you're celebrating landing a new project, we'd love to hear about it!
  

The Ripple Effect: Beyond the Workspace

We feel so privileged to have met a plethora of professionals that we may never have crossed paths with had it not been for our space, and we're even lucky enough to have made some lifelong connections. And the brilliant thing - that's not unusual. The connections made within a coworking space often extend far beyond its walls, and it can enhance not just one’s professional life but also their personal well-being.

So, is coworking the answer to finding your community? For many, the answer is a resounding yes. Coworking spaces like ours provide more than just a workspace; they create a sense of belonging in an otherwise isolated work world. Interested in experiencing it firsthand? Call us on 01797 222857 to schedule a tour and see how our space can be the answer you’ve been searching for.