Coworking is a growing trend for those of us who work at home or are self-employed. Learn more about the advantages and benefits and then ask yourself "Is coworking for me?"
What exactly is coworking?
"Coworking is an arrangement in which workers of different companies share an office space, allowing cost savings and convenience through the use of common infrastructures, such as equipment, utilities, and receptionist and custodial services, and in some cases refreshments and parcel acceptance services. It is attractive to independent contractors, independent scientists, telecommuting larger work teams that want flexibility and to avoid wasted real estate space if some employees are working from home, and work-at-home professionals, and people who travel frequently. Additionally, coworking helps workers avoid the feeling of isolation they may experience while telecommuting, traveling, or working at home alone, and eliminate distractions. Most coworking spaces charge membership dues." - Wikipedia
Read full post here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coworking
Benefits of Coworking
Some of the benefits of coworking that have been identified are:
Flexibility in working. Open 24/7 for members, so work when you are most productive.
Prospects of better networking.
Less expenditure than leasing an office on your own.
Promotes business growth.
Have a place to meet clients.
Coworking with like-minded people.
Collaborations & learning new skills.
Non-materialistic support.
More productivity, more success.
Ergonomically better than your couch or kitchen island.
Be a member of a community.
Coworking in Athabasca
With so many Athabasca University employees now working at home, we think there is an opportunity to create a business casual space for AU workers and freelancers, solopreneurs, and others to get out of their house, have their own work station, and the collaboration and camaraderie of the office at their disposal. There is also the fact that coworking spaces are a benefit to communities by creating collaborative relationships that help drive economic growth. Building a community around the coworking space helps new businesses launch and provides inspiration to established businesses as well.
The CO/LAB
We are planning to open in the Spring of 2022. We will have space for 6-10 full-time/part-time desks and 10 - 20 "hot seats" for drop-ins. The full time desks will have space to lock up items and you can personalize your area with your own accessories. Part-time desks will be shared between 2 folks over the month. These memberships will allow 24/7 access to the space.
Drop-ins will have access to first-come first-serve desks and tables during regular business hours.
Everyone will have access to free coffee and tea, a kitchen area, and a private meeting office to rent on an hourly or daily basis (discounted rates for members) and the best internet available.
Does it sound like coworking is for you? If yes then stay tuned!