There’s no doubt that coronavirus has turned how we work on its head. Just like that, employees were working remotely while juggling kids and logging hours outside the typical 9-5. And companies had no choice but to adjust to this new normal – even if they didn’t previously embrace a work-from-home culture.
As we start returning to the office amid social distancing and heightened health concerns, businesses will be forced to rethink their workspace and how it will function for years to come. Workers are going to need the ability to work where and when it makes sense, and that won’t always be in a traditional office setup. In fact, it could be in a coworking or flexible workspace.
What Is a Flexible Workspace?
A flexible workspace generally means an office that provides creative desk options and adaptable common spaces. It allows people to move about the office – perhaps sitting at a hot desk one day or hoteling workspace the next. It’s all about having a space that’s useful for everyone’s changing needs.
The Rise of the Flexible Workspace
Even before the pandemic hit, we were seeing an increase of coworking and flexible workspaces. A study by JLL suggests that “30% of working Americans will find themselves stationed in a flexible office within the next decade.” CoworkingResources agrees, saying almost 5 million people will be working in coworking spaces by 2024 – an increase of 158% compared to 2020.
A Cost-Effective Approach
Coronavirus has been a huge financial hit on many companies – forcing them to reevaluate priorities and slash budgets. Switching to a coworking or flexible workspace -can be a smart way to cut costs and retain employees. An expensive, long-term lease on a large office space may no longer make sense when only a fraction of your workforce is in the office. With many flexible coworking spaces offering a short-term or month-to-month lease, companies can better adapt to changing financial and staffing circumstances.
Distancing with Ease
With state, local, and health and safety guidelines influencing how many people can be in an office at once (and how far away they must sit), flexible work arrangements can help businesses divide and distance their employees. The workspace can ensure workers aren’t getting too close and separating staff into multiple in-office groups on a rotating schedule can prevent having too many people in the same place.
Comfort and Productivity
This is the perfect time for companies to allow employees to work when and where they want. Having the ability to work both remotely and in a flexible space where they can switch up their surroundings and collaborate effectively (and safely), workers are more likely to see an improvement in their overall well-being, productivity, and job satisfaction.
If your business is looking for a flexible workspace, contact District Offices. Our team can help create an option that works best for you.
