Did you know that 89% of European companies plan to implement a hybrid work model after the pandemic? 

This permanent shift towards hybrid working is one of the lasting legacies of the pandemic. Because of health risks, remote work has been the model of choice for many businesses since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as the situation began to improve in many parts of the world, employees were gradually asked to return to the office a few days a week. During the rest of the weekdays, employees are allowed to work from home— or anywhere they wish. This setup is called a hybrid work arrangement.

While many remote workers work in their home offices, others have found themselves more productive in co-working spaces. After all, most co-working spaces have complete and upgraded amenities such as high-speed internet, a coffee and snack bar, and comfortable workstations. For these reasons, many individuals in hybrid work arrangements often go to co-working hubs. This article explains hybrid work, co-working, and why these two models complement each other.

Why is hybrid work so popular?

Simply put, a hybrid workplace combines elements of in-office work and remote work. Hybrid work is often called the “future of work” because it supports the unique needs of employees as well as their different work styles. Additionally, hybrid work offers flexibility since it allows employees to engage in both physical and digital workspaces. There are equal opportunities for independent work and collaboration. More importantly, this work model gives employees more freedom in choosing how to spend their time. With improving technologies that support remote work, it is easy to see why hybrid work is ideal for employees and employers alike. 

What is behind the co-working trend?

The term “co-working” was first used to refer to a shared workplace in San Francisco, California in 2005. It was envisioned by Brad Neuberg as a place where teams could not only share a space and split costs but also collaborate. His experience in startups helped him design this shared space, which was initially intended for freelancers.

Today, co-working is increasingly becoming popular around the world. Between 2014 and 2018 alone, there was an increase of 205% in the number of flexible workspace sites in Europe. This number most likely went up during the pandemic. As more and more people are given the choice to work where they want due to the hybrid work model, co-working spaces will continue to see more customers.

Co-working and hybrid work: A perfect match?

So, do co-working and hybrid work really go hand in hand? 

First of all, it is important to clarify that co-working and hybrid work don’t always come in a package. Some employees in the hybrid workplace will continue to work in the comfort of their homes. At the same time, co-working hubs are not only meant for hybrid workers. As mentioned earlier, freelancers are some of the most frequent customers of coworking spots. 

However, not everyone has enough space for an office at home, or enough funds to get a high-quality internet connection and desktop computer. In these cases, going to a coworking center is a great choice. Additionally, there are a lot of other benefits for hybrid workers who choose to use a co-working station.

Interaction

One of the main challenges of working remotely is not having officemates to talk to. As social beings, interacting with other people is a basic need for us. The isolation brought about by pandemic-relation restrictions have been taking a toll on everybody’s mental health and social skills. Through co-working stations, workers from various companies and backgrounds can find a community. This community can serve as a network of support in the long run, and at the very least, a circle of new acquaintances to share greetings and ideas with. 

Collaboration

Since a number of co-working hubs are designed to maximize comfort and socialization, opportunities for collaboration are plenty. It is no secret that innovative offices help employees build good networks. In a co-working place, workers are likely to meet professionals from fields other than their own. Conversations with these professionals can lead to new insights or even establish a business relationship. Workers sharing the same co-working hub can collaborate on projects, whether for personal goals or for profit.

Flexibility

Non-traditional workstations and working hours are one of the first factors considered by younger workers when choosing which job offer to take. After all, achieving a work-life balance is an aspiration held by most employees, regardless of age. Additionally, letting workers go to co-working places with new people and a new atmosphere will help boost employees’ productivity and creativity. 

Cost

Working at a shared space means you will be splitting your bills for internet, electricity, and office rent.

Workers can also save money from travel expenses by choosing a workstation that is close to their home. Lastly, in the event that the employee actually has the materials and space needed to work from home, co-working is still an effective and cost-efficient way to get rid of the distractions inside a house.

Conclusion

Overall, companies implementing hybrid work will find that co-working hubs help encourage a better employee experience. Co-working allows employees in the hybrid workplace to interact and collaborate with others, achieve a work-life balance, and cut costs. As a result, these satisfied employees will perform much better.

Search Remotely is an online platform that pushes remote workers to better themselves and enables employers to find international remote talent. We are an advocate for hybrid work models and truly believe that hybrid work models are no doubt a major part of the future of work.