In this day and age, most entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers are always on the move.
Trying to learn, adapt, and produce on the go. Some even just stay at home and do what they need to climb that success ladder. While working from wherever and whenever you want gives you a sense of independence, it also sets a tone of loneliness. Whether you work from home for a few months or just a few days, the feeling of isolation can gradually set in. You may find yourself doing everything on your own. Navigating your journey without the assistance or support of a coworker can make you feel excluded. Whether you even belong to the business that you're working your heart out for? And going back to that corporate cubicle sounds even worse. According to a survey, one out of 4 employees and even business owners feel lonely working on their own. For this reason, some businesses have taken the initiative to shift to a coworking space, whether it be a private office or a virtual one. Such a move creates a sense of acceptance and inclusion. However, further steps can also be taken to create a sense of belonging in serviced offices.
Creating a coworking space isn't enough. Businesses also have to make sure that the space is accepting of new employees. If your employees do not feel free to be themselves, they will experience a creative block. This will reduce their productivity, ultimately affecting your company's goals.
You can create a sense of belonging in serviced spaces by fostering an environment where new ideas are heard. It’s important to make extra efforts to ensure that employees feel comfortable, providing them with the necessary support that they require. Such support can either be technical, communal, or both. This will improve inclusive representation and exclude a judgemental environment.
Team communication is usually a challenge for many employees because most of them shy away from interacting with their coworkers. Studies indicate that only 30% of workers are confident enough to participate in office discussions. Trying to organize team-building activities, such as bowling nights and corporate dinners, will spark a discussion among team members. One should also appreciate the efforts and ideas of their employees so they feel a sense of belonging in their own office.
Fostering a nurturing and inclusive workspace is highly important. The environment should not only be authentic to the business goals but also support remote and hybrid workers. Remember: Your employees have gone out of their way to join your team on-site, so it's important that they don’t go unnoticed. There are two practical ways to create a caring environment: one has a daily impact and the other has a biannual one. For the daily one, design an office layout that is relaxed and artsy while still comfortable for your coworkers. Monthly, enforce benefit programs to make your employees feel appreciated for the efforts they make. Such changes help create a business community that is beyond the office walls and prove to the employees that they do matter!
In a world where traditional offices are becoming less relevant, it's important to foster a sense of community in shared office spaces. While entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote employees have the privilege to work from wherever they want, it creates a false sense of freedom. The beauty of coworking is that it provides more than just a desk; it is a space where people interact and build community. Creating a culture of inclusivity, improving interaction and communication, and caring for the employees can go a long way in ensuring that there is a connection rather than isolation. Do you want to change your work mood? At The Coworking Spaces, we have over a million shared office spaces all over the globe. Whether you are living in Bali or enjoying the architecture of Fankruft, we have a space that is the right fit for you. With these coworking spaces, you can build the community and revive the self-motivation that you need to be successful. Come on board and share in a community that embraces boundaries that do not hinder collaboration!