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The traditional idea of a workplace has shifted since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The technological and demographic shift has transformed the way organizations do business.
The pandemic also blurred the lines between work and home. So much so that in 2022, the debate on the effectiveness of remote working seems to have dissipated. There are constant debates about burnout and work-life balance.
Remote, hybrid, or in-office? — This question has increasingly become a popular topic of discussion amongst executives.
Some believe that working from home is better as it keeps them more focused, productive, and helps them keep sensitive data secure. Whereas some believe in working from the office as it allows them to build a social network and keep things professional.
A whole third set of executives believe in taking the hybrid route, where they could enjoy the perks and benefits of both the settings i.e. co-working spaces. Utilizing a mix of both home-working and office space and bringing them together through a co-working experience is the newest trend in the industry.
So which is better, working from home or co-working spaces? Keep reading to find out!
Working from home is a much better option for permanently remote workers. It gives them complete control of the kind of environment they want to work in. Whereas co-working spaces provide more opportunities in terms of social aspects, work-life balance, and so on.
Let’s look at five major aspects of working and find out what option works best for which situation.
Most companies worry about a productivity drop in their remote working teams. While evidence shows that employees are much more productive, working from home is still seen as slacking.
Remote employees work 1.4 more days per month than their office-based counterparts. Remote workers often take fewer breaks, work longer hours, and get more work done.
However, working from a shared workspace or a co-working space can also provide this benefit. You might think that workers get distracted in a co-working space but in reality, this difference is pretty much negligible. It would be fair to conclude that co-working spaces are designed for productivity.
Besides, did you know that startups benefit the most from coworking spaces?
The better option: both
Working around people — even without interacting with them — is easier and has mental health benefits. Getting social interactions boosts employee well-being and makes them feel more content in their role.
Remote workers usually do not get much social interaction. This may lead to feelings of isolation and a breakdown of the work-life balance. They may face difficulties in building any form of social life without a concerted effort to do so.
When it comes to social aspects, coworking spaces are nearly ideal. It provides a perfect space for executives to socialize healthily. It enables executives to enhance their networks and peer relationships. Not to mention the occasional fun rendezvous and community events that most coworking spaces organize on a bi-weekly or monthly basis.
Source: A sneak peek into occasional play sessions at The Address.
The better option: coworking space
For executives who work from home permanently, the work-life balance could be more destructive. They’ll surely be able to control their time and schedule, but somehow they end up working longer than other employees.
This becomes the best option for maintaining a strong work-life balance if you choose the right type of co-working space. Besides coworking spaces are filled with other amenities like a cafeteria, sleeping pods, meeting rooms, and so on. It makes it easier for executives to relax and enjoy while they work.
Source: Does this feel like the scene of someone’s next BIG idea, or is it just us?
The better option: coworking space.
At some point in time, every role requires executives to handle sensitive data. It could be as simple as client information, customer data, or any contact detail. Or it could be sensitive information like the financial information about your company. Let’s compare this aspect.
Working from home seems like an ideal option if your role requires a lot of sensitive information. This is because it gives you complete control of your environment and you’ll safely be able to access this data without much issue.
A lot of co-working spaces offer isolated cubicles and pods for workers where they can sit all by themselves and work whenever they need. It not only gives you a private space but also a professional space to conduct meetings while ensuring data security.
The better option: coworking space
We live in a world that is more unpredictable than ever. The pandemic has shifted patterns and changed how people work. During such a situation it becomes difficult to opt for a space that is essentially not sanitized in front of your eyes. Even with sanitation, the risk from external contamination prevails.
Working from home is fairly flexible when it comes to health concerns or Covis concerns. There are no buts about it.
Coworking spaces have been significantly impacted by the pandemic. However, many co-working spaces take significant measures to sanitize their premises regularly. Besides, they constantly undergo the process of tracking and tracing.
Source: The Address’s Covid safety measures
The better option: I’d say both. However, the decision power stays with you!
With a win of 5-2, coworking space turns out to be an ideal option for employees — especially for those whose roles involve creative thinking and brainstorming. Coworking spaces help you to stay productive and are more versatile.
