A photo of different medicinal drugs, tablets and pills on blue background.
In our fast-paced and ever-changing modern world, it’s not uncommon to see more and more people gravitating towards shared workspaces. These coworking spaces have become popular in recent years, as they offer a flexible and cost-effective solution to traditional office spaces. With all the amenities and resources one could need, these shared workspaces are an ideal choice for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and even large corporations.
In this blog post, we will dive into the concept of working smarter and how it can be applied in these shared workspaces. We will discuss the benefits of using these spaces as well as the challenges that come with them. Additionally, we will examine some of the key strategies to increasing productivity and unlocking your true potential in a shared workspace. So, let’s get started!
1. Benefits of using shared workspace
The benefits of a shared workspace are plenty. For starters, shared coworking spaces offer a lot of flexibility, being a great opportunity for people who don’t want to be tied to a traditional workspace. With a coworking space, you have access to all the amenities you need without being bogged down with the costs and responsibilities that come along with a traditional office space.
Not only do shared workspaces offer more financial flexibility, but they also provide a great platform for networking and collaboration. Working alongside other professionals who may be working on similar projects can provide unique insights, solutions and even collaborations. In addition, popular coworking spaces often host events, workshops, and classes that give members the opportunity to network, learn, and grow.
2. Challenges of using shared workspaces
Like with any workspace, shared coworking spaces come with their own set of challenges. For instance, these spaces can become quite crowded and noisy, leading to lower levels of concentration, especially during peak hours. While noise cancelling headphones and private phone booths may help to a certain extent, one way to alleviate this issue is to ensure the space has a designated quiet space to escape to when needed.
Another challenge with shared workspaces is workspace etiquette. Since these spaces are shared, it is critical to have a level of respect for the space and the people using it. This involves taking the time to reset the workspace or conference room after use and keeping your workspace clean and organized for the next person. It also means being considerate to others around you by keeping noise levels to a minimum and avoiding disruptive behaviour.
3. Strategies to increase productivity in shared workspaces
To keep productivity levels high while working in a shared workspace, it is essential to bridge the gap between conventional and unconventional work culture. This can be achieved by setting goals and taking regular breaks to refresh your creativity and focus. You might also consider coming up with rituals and routines in your day to help boost your productivity, like setting aside specific times for emails or focusing on particular topics at different times throughout the day.
Structuring your days so that your most impactful work is completed during your most productive hours is also a great hack for maintaining high productivity levels in shared workspaces. While doing this, it is advisable to keep an eye out for when the space is the least noisy and to plan your work around that time.
4. Use technology to your advantage
Lastly, it is important to leverage technology tools to stay connected and productive while working in a shared space. Productivity apps like Focus@Will and Freedcamp can help increase focus and efficiency throughout the workday. Video-conferencing platforms like Zoom and Skype facilitate communication with remote team members and one can also use file-sharing tools such Google Drive and DropBox to work collaboratively with others.
Conclusion:
Working smarter in shared workspaces is all about finding the right balance between productivity and community. By utilizing the perks of shared workspaces, working smarter instead of harder is more feasible. A personal plan that caters to an individual’s needs is also needed to unlock the potential in a shared workspace. As long as one stays committed, sets up boundaries, and succeeds in reigning in distractions, shared workspaces can unlock their full potential and lead to better productivity, creativity, and success.
