Ways To Make Your Coworking Space Happy and Productive

Shared office spaces have proven to be an effective place for small entrepreneurs, remote workers, and freelancers, who actively choose to be part of a community of like-minded working individuals. Not only does it help increase work productivity but coworking spaces are also associated with freedom and independence. Members enjoy the perks of serviced offices while networking with people from different industries. 

The idea of coworking and shared offices in Dubai have become quite popular over the years. Working alongside people from diverse industries, projects, and ventures may seem overwhelming at first but it takes away from a lot of issues that traditional office spaces might pose. It’s true that coworking spaces can get a bit daunting, especially if you’re new to it; however, there are plenty of ways to make your coworking space happy and productive. Whether you aim to do this through socializing or building a strong community, here’s a list of tips that can help you get the most out of your shared office space.

• Host/Participate In Weekend Events

Social events are great opportunities for networking. It’s an excellent way to embrace diversity, especially at coworking spaces in Dubai where people from different cultures work together under the same roof. Networking increases business connections and opportunities for collaboration. People you are networking with could be possible future leads. Interacting with as many people as possible in your coworking space opens up a lot of possibilities that can help your business and work opportunities grow. But ensure that you also take this opportunity to socialize with people. This means not just looking for an opportunity to exchange business cards but to genuinely connect with people. Meaningful conversations about themselves and their brands are so much better than just looking for an opportunity to make an elevator pitch. 

If you’re not into hosting, ensure you participate in these events. Most coworking spaces have monthly or quarterly events, workshops, guest talks, and networking events to give members an opportunity to mingle and learn more about each other. Sharing upcoming projects, past setbacks, and current successes are a great way to put yourself and your company in front of others.

If you’re not into events and socializing, even doing something as simple as introducing yourself to new members can go a long way. For all you know, it could either land you your next collaboration, spark an interesting conversation, or help you find a new best friend. A simple ‘Good Morning’ and a smile at the start of a day can help build a stress-free environment leading to better work-life and a productive day! Whenever you’re headed for a break or lunch, invite a coworker you’ve never hung out with before. It’s a great way to get to know everyone quickly.

• Take Responsibility

Organizing group accountability is one way to cultivate participation and bring about a sense of collaboration within the community. Accountability groups usually meet a couple of times a week to discuss matters that concern the shared office space. This empowers fellow members to initiate action and create a feeling of belongingness. There are a number of ways you can choose to do this. You can opt to organize a workshop or host a fun game night. Get in touch with your community manager to help you reach out to everyone in the office. This way you can build your reach and get to know a few people beyond the confines of just work.

• Organize games

With coworking spaces, you have the added opportunity to socialize with people from different industries. So organizing community games is always a good choice. Hosting raffles or playing board games are fun ways to enjoy your shared office space experience. It alleviates work tension and stress over deadlines and turns labor into laughter. This will promote a healthy working environment, which is key to overall productivity and well being. 

• Create an online community

Encouraging your coworking colleagues to join an online community can help them build a collaborative environment. Whether it’s a social media group or a monthly newsletter, communicating with your coworking colleagues will make them feel involved and also ensure they enjoy their time at the office.

• Experiment with the office layout

A major advantage of shared office spaces is the ability to create a working environment of your choice.  Quite a few freelancers hate sticking to a routine or the same office space everyday, and small businesses usually benefit from such occasional routine changes. Re-arranging your office layout can offer a refreshing perspective for your coworking office colleagues. You can also involve them in the decision making. This will help them provide a unique perspective and will make them feel like they’re a part of the community.

• Keep an open pantry

A lot of coworking spaces in Dubai have an open pantry with amenities such as coffee, tea, and cookies. Dial this service up a notch by creating a shared pantry where members can opt to have lunch or coffee together. Having a shared space helps build a sense of culture and community among colleagues. 

• Get To Know Your Community Manager

Most coworking spaces have a community manager. They’re adept at knowing who the team members are, and are up to date with the latest information regarding events and community gatherings. They’re also the perfect people to go to if you have any questions or concerns. They help keep up with the services of the coworking space and ensure every team member is comfortable in the office. Ensure you’re always in touch with them, ask questions, give them feedback, and share your ideas with them. They will be more than happy to listen to you and figure out a solution for your concerns. They should also be your go-to if you’re looking to connect with other people professionally. They will introduce you to people who could benefit from your service or refer you to someone looking for your brand’s services. It’s a win-win situation all around.

• Collaborate

With coworking culture, helping each other becomes second nature. With people from different industries with varied skills surrounding you, you’re bound to reach out to others for guidance. Invest in your coworking community and genuinely try to learn what each of the members do. This provides both parties with an opportunity to learn about one’s strengths and possibly find a way to collaborate. The best coworking spaces have people from various industries with a wide set of skills and helps bring those people together in an efficient manner. In fact, a good strategy is to take a break with people in fields or companies that are different from your own and try to look for ways your work can possibly intersect.

With a ton of coworking spaces popping up frequently, it’s always a good idea to know how to bring about a work environment that is fun and productive for all. To learn more about shared office spaces, myOffice at https://www.myoffice.ae/.