Everyone has a role to play in the bustling hive that is your office. Imagine a vibrant hub with sizzling ideas, productive collabs, and work getting done effectively. These are the benefits that shared office spaces try to achieve, like The Collection in Downtown LA. But how do you fully optimize the efficiency of a coworking setting? Allow this article, mixed with my personal workspace stories, to provide a lively and easy-to-understand guide on thriving in a shared office.
Setting the Cornerstone: Pick the Right Space with the Perfect Location and Amenities
Capture all the value of a shared office by starting with the right location. An example includes The Collection, located at the center of LA’s Restaurant Row. Amenities such as high-speed coffee, meeting rooms, and easily accessible Wi-Fi also significantly increase the productivity of the day.
Why I Chose a Coworking Space
My first coworking space was one located by public transport with a café—tasking me with fewer hours of commuting. Public areas like a café where I could relax were vital. As far as the office’s location is concerned, the presence of ergonomic chairs or peaceful corners can also help get a lot of work done, so make sure to check what’s included. Additional offerings like meeting rooms or free printing services may come in handy as well.
Encompassing Technology
Adjunct offices rely heavily on technology, so make sure to leverage the correct tech tools for the best results. For example, the Controlio time tracking apps allow for effective time monitoring. Slack and project management tools like Trello ensure that there are no interruptions when group tasks are executed. Order is essential in shared spaces.
How I Adapted to a Busy Working Environment
While juggling multiple tasks, it was challenging to manage client calls and admin work simultaneously. After setting up a time tracker, I realized I was spending exorbitant amounts of time categorizing emails. Following this change, I utilized Trello to divide my tasks, which allowed me to enhance my focus immensely. In an office setup, technology streamlines workflows, seamlessly linking each step of your workday for effortless navigation.
Maximize Flexibility with Hot Desking and Desk Booking
The hot desking system allows you to select which desk you would like to work at every day. This maximizes space and creates room for flexibility. The Collection and many other coworking spaces utilize a desk booking system to avoid disorganization. These systems allow you to book a space that fits your preference, be it a quiet nook or bustling zone.
During a project crunch, I enjoyed alternating between a communal brainstorming table and a standing desk for my solo work sessions. Because of these systems, I knew I would always have the right setup. With hot desking, movement is encouraged, and you are regularly introduced to new faces, all of which inspire ideas. Interested in other productivity tools?
Foster Community: Collaborate with Office Mates
Shared offices present immense opportunities for networking and collaborating with others. Attend events and workshops, or arrange informal coffee meetings to engage with your office mates. These activities can provide partnerships, referrals, or new insights that enhance your work.
During happy hour at my coworking space, I encountered a graphic designer. We ended up marrying my writing with her visuals for a compelling client project. It’s not just entertaining—the community spirit in shared spaces boosts productivity. Participate in group chats or bulletin boards if you wish to communicate and exchange ideas.
Designate Order: Clear Out Clutter for Focus
In a shared workspace, a disorganized desk can derail your productivity and create a disheveled atmosphere. It is essential to clean, organize, and make use of storage lockers or digital tools to keep one’s workspace tidy. Uncluttered files and clean surfaces can eliminate distractive pre-work clutter.
A tangled mess of notes and cables makes working anywhere a chore, as I learned the hard way when I let my desk morph into a mini disaster zone. Cleaning up my space served me well in the form of effective cloud storage and a locker for personal items. Aside from a clutter-free mind, a tidied setup signals professionalism.
Conclusion: Make Your Shared Office Work for You
Your office shared with others isn’t just the latest trend in workspaces; it can also serve as an effective catalyst for creativity and productivity. Choosing a well-equipped office, using Controlio, embracing hot-desking, connecting with the community, and staying organized transforms your shared office into a productivity powerhouse. My coworking experiences have shown me that a smart setup with a splash of community spirit can transform how you work. Try picking one hack. Maybe try booking a desk and see how your shared office helps you succeed. What is your favorite perk of coworking? Jump in, explore, and claim it as yours.
