Along with the freelancing and gig economy, the coworking industry is thriving, with the number of coworking spaces having increased worldwide from just 17 in 2007 to 14,000 in 2017. That number is projected to reach over 30,000 by 2022 — more than double the coworking spaces that exist today.
For many startups, gig workers, and freelancers including self-published authors, there's good reason to love coworking spaces. They offer a sense of community and flexibility — in many senses of the word — that were previously non-existent.
Coworking Spaces 101
Coworking spaces are quite literally exactly what they sound like: shared workspaces. They differ from traditional offices in that the workers come from numerous different companies and are most commonly entrepreneurs or freelancers such as authors or graphic designers. The culture is also much more hip than traditional offices, a distinct blend of laid-back and energetic.
For a fee, whether it be monthly, weekly, or even hourly, coworking spaces offer shared equipment and amenities including conference rooms, reception staff, and janitorial services. Some also offer refreshments, shipping services, and niche amenities such as rooms reserved for taking naps or nursing moms.
Working remotely or for oneself comes with a unique set of challenges: feelings of isolation, struggling with effective time management, battling constant distractions, and having trouble unplugging from work. Could working from a coworking space be the solution? Here's a closer look at the benefits and potential drawbacks of coworking spaces.
- Pro: Flexibility. Coworking spaces do not require a lease and many of the larger companies, such as WeWork, allow working at multiple locations.
- Pro: The social aspect. Many coworking spaces have an atmosphere reminiscent of a social club and there is a great sense of community and collaboration.
- Pro: A sounding board. For writers who work primarily in solitude, not only is writer's block a common issue but so is getting tunnel vision. Coworking spaces offer a great opportunity for feedback from peers.
- Con: Too social? Coworking spaces are typically noisy and many have community managers who organize events. While most have quiet areas, competition to claim one of these spaces is fierce.
- Con: Minimal privacy. Depending on the nature of your work, privacy could be a concern and frankly, you won't get it in most coworking spaces.
- Con: Money. Albeit flexible, coworking spaces are far from economical. At Office Nomads, basic day passes are available for $30 and a dedicated desk with mailbox privileges starts at $395 per month. In Industrious coworking spaces in L.A., a monthly "hot desk" (a floating desk, you pick any available workstation) starts at $428.
Many independent workers crave social yet professional connections, and coworking spaces provide exactly that in addition to flexible workspaces. With new ones opening seemingly daily, it's easy to try one (or a couple!) out and see if it's a good fit.
