Flexible workplaces are becoming more and more popular. There are all kinds of reasons for this, but they mostly stem from the idea that it’s better to have a happy employee than an unhappy one. Seems sensible enough…
1.) Employees Are Happier And More Productive In Flexible Workplaces
Studies show that employees who work in flexible facilities, ones where they can control their environment, don’t feel as if they’re being controlled by their work environment. This makes them happier and less stressed out. They’re also more productive when they’re not fighting traffic or wondering if the boss is going to be a jerk that day.
2.) Those Who Work In Open Office Spaces Report Being Happier Than Those Working In Traditional Office Spaces
In a study conducted by Miramar Labs, participants who worked in open office spaces were happier and less stressed than those in traditional offices. Seeing as how this is the case, it’s no wonder flexible workspaces are becoming popular!
3.) Employees In Flexible Workplaces Are More Engaged And Loyal To Their Employers
Employees really do feel more engaged and loyal toward their employers when they have control over their work environment. It just makes sense — employees want to be comfortable at work so that they can focus on being productive. In fact, the American Psychological Association found that half of all workers reported greater productivity when working from home…so much for needing an office!
4.) Increased Product Makes Up For The Cost Of Implementing A Flexible Workplace
You might think that it’s expensive to install flexible spaces in your business, but the truth is that you’ll make up for it in increased productivity. In fact, companies using flexible workspaces are known to be more productive than those who aren’t.
5.) Employees Still Need Access To Collaborative Spaces And Meeting Areas
While it’s true that employees want privacy, they also need access to collaborative areas where teamwork can happen. This means there needs to be an open meeting space with tables and desks for working together — it won’t do much good if everyone just has their own individual desk!
So what are you waiting for? If you’re looking into ways of improving your environment, why not try something different for a change? You could have a flexible workspace…and who knows, it might just give you the boost your business needs!
5 Key Things to Consider When Choosing Flexible Workspace
Whether you’re a large business, small business or freelancer, there’s a range of benefits to be had from moving to a coworking or flexible workspace. But choosing the right space for your company is no easy task, and compromises must often be made. Provided you prioritize what’s most important to you, it’s unlikely you’ll go too far wrong – and the great news is that most coworking spaces are extremely flexible! Here’s 5 key things to consider.
Location
Remember that the location of your workspace shouldn’t just suit your employees, it should also suit your clients. If you have employees commuting from all areas and you’ll regularly be having meetings with clients, your new coworking space should be close to public transport and somewhere that will leave potential clients with a good impression of your company!
Keeping your employees happy will lead to greater productivity and a lower staff turnover. Where possible, the location of your new office should make commuting easy, and it should feel like a nice area – with a range of nice places to eat and some bars for after-work drinks.
Flexibility
Hot desks, fixed desks or private offices are available, but these won’t be the norm in all coworking offices. Hot desks are best for freelancers; they allow you to network and are very cost-effective if you won’t be spending lots of time in the office. The downside is that you won’t have a desk to call your own.
A fixed desk is another great option but they are slightly less flexible. However they do allow you to leave your things there overnight and help you to feel more of a routine.
Private offices are also readily available and are great if you want to collaborate in peace! These will be much more expensive but allow your employees to make the most of all that coworking spaces have to offer – without being disrupted by other companies.
Cost
Whether you’re a freelancer, small business or large business, the cost of the coworking space will be a factor. Many coworking spaces charge per desk per day, which is great if you aren’t going to be there every day or spend a lot of time working from home – although you will likely pay more per day than if you have a ‘fixed’ desk. While coworking spaces are generally very cost-effective, it’s worth comparing the cost of your favorite spaces to others in the area.
Environment & Community
You’re going to be spending a lot of time with others in the coworking space, so it’s worth checking you will get along with them! Do some research on the other companies in the space. Many coworking spaces offer Friday afternoon drinks or networking events, which can be a great way to meet people.
Check that your new office has facilities and perks that might be important to you and your staff, such as showers, tea and coffee, bike storage or pet-friendliness! These can help make the environment friendly, collaborative and productive.
Connectivity & Communications -the vitally important bit!
Fast and secure flexible workspace wifi and internet should be non-negotiable. There is no excuse for poor workspace software, and many freelancers are transitioning from coffee shops to coworking spaces for the quality of the coworking wifi and internet alone!
Check that the internet and connectivity is not only fast and reliable, it’s also secure. Other considerations include phones, screens in meeting rooms, printers and photocopiers. Dealing with wifi issues is no one’s idea of fun – not least 10 minutes into a video call with a client! Quality workspace software should be top of the list when it comes to choosing the right coworking space.
Are You Ready for Your New Flexible Workspace?
Victory Workspace has been serving professionals in the Walnut Creek, California area for over ten years, bringing together a community of networking professionals to help them grow their business and thrive. We offer a large variety of coworking spaces, short-term office rentals, meeting rooms and a welcoming event space with plenty of free parking for you or your guests. All that while providing our clients with daily opportunities to network with other business-minded professionals just like you! To learn more, set up your free tour or inquire about which one of our services might be right for you, reach out to one of our amazing Community Guides at Victory Workspace for more information.
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