Architect Robin Chhabra points out that shared workplaces are becoming increasingly popular. Hence it is imperative to work towards a proper etiquette that will build a harmonious working environment in a space that is shared by many individual:
Culture at the workplace is increasing being looked at as a chief criterion by the millennial workforce when choosing their jobs. In India, millennials even consider taking a pay cut for a great working environment. By 2025, the millennials will be 75% of the global workforce and that is a sizeable number to take a note of1. Coworking spaces, the new kid on the block, is creatively looking at redefining our culture of the workplace. These spaces are great platforms to enhance engagement and use the collective might to help redefine our rapidly changing world. Here are 5 ways of affecting a better culture at a shared workspace.
1. Design
Coworking spaces look at design as an enabler when planning its own space. The range of public and private areas such as ample meeting rooms, huddle spaces, phone booths, quiet corners, brainstorm rooms, showers etc. give its members freedom and flexibility on how to best use the space on any given day. This sense of autonomy goes a long way in instilling effective working habits. Using the full advantage of sunlight and adding plants into the mix, the design can lead to an energy in the space that cannot be planned on paper. The feeling of being connected to the outside does wonders for the users of the space as the vibe is positive and uplifting. Inspiring the members’ sense and sensibilities is an important goal of coworking spaces and design is the first coat of paint for further creating a great work culture.
2. Personalization
Letting clients to make it the office space their own is also crucial for culture. Creating ample space to scribble your thoughts, dressing up the office, being able to create your own work desk, some coworking spaces even offer a range of office furniture to choose from before one moves in. Defining your own space and giving it your own character provides a sense of comfort as we all need an anchor; being displaced and placeless is not what most people enjoy.
3. Engagement
Due to their scale and potential, coworking spaces are able to get a great many promotional benefits to their members, from yoga sessions to pop up shops to artisanal tea and coffee. These increase engagement opportunities amongst members and most importantly look at creating an environment that is not just about work. They offer moments of pause in the busy work day which is often needed to recharge your batteries and also to enhance the ability to multitask. Many companies cannot afford to do this on their own due to lack of space and scale and hence can gain great benefit from having access to these interactions.
4. Learning
Creating a platform for discussion through talks, panel discussions, round tables are also vital to the growth and learning of individuals. We all can learn from successful companies and individuals who have a lot to share. Even failures are important and there are events just for those. Bringing stories from the social sector is another great idea as there so much to learn from the non-profit world. The ‘CEO’s’ of those companies don’t get as much press time as they should for there are so many amazing examples of inspiration and learning that can be used in business as well. Access through this, companies could even create partnerships for their CSR and work together to add value.
