If you’re a freelancer or an independent contractor, you’re probably used to working alone. Or, maybe you operate out of libraries, coffee shops, and other public spaces. Either way, it usually means a degree of isolation. Even if you’re typing away in a Starbucks on the Sydney high street, you’re still very much in a personal bubble.
The problem with this, of course, is that it can be lonely. When working out of informal, non-professional environments, there’s nobody to bounce ideas off. You can’t turn around and ask the person next to you for a quick review or an opinion on your latest article title. While there are benefits to being an independent innovator and creator, it can also be very limiting.
It’s one of the reasons why shared environments have become so popular with innovators and entrepreneurs. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of coworking office spaces.
- Making Friends and Influencing People
The biggest and most obvious benefit of coworking is that you get to be around other forward thinking professionals. In fact, the great thing about these shared offices is that everybody who uses them has made a choice to open themselves up to collaboration.
While personal space should always be respected, you’re encouraged to chat, brainstorm, share, and create. This ready access to new perspectives is what drives businesses, so don’t underestimate the power of sharing.
- Flexible, Mobile Tools
Coworking spaces aren’t like traditional offices. The premium facilities in Sydney allow tenants as much use as they like, but most choose to split their time between the shared space and their home offices. It’s also common for entrepreneurs to work while ‘on the go.’
Coworking providers are a great match for this because they offer unparalleled access to a flexible range of corporate and communications tools. From phone and web apps to software programs, video conferencing streams, and more, these facilities are a treasure chest of mobile assets.
- Stimulating, Productive Conditions
Entrepreneurs and solo contractors tend to find these environments very motivating because they eliminate distractions, without exerting too much rigidity or control. You can move around and structure your own schedule, but there’s no TV and social media is less of a temptation.
You’re surrounded by inspired, energised people who can help you look at problems from new angles and even share productivity tips with you. When you’re alone, you’ve only got yourself as a reference, so it’s easier to excuse preoccupied unfocused behaviours.
- Access to High Quality Resources
It’s also worth mentioning that the coworking facilities in Australia are full of high quality corporate tools and resources. It’s not just software either. Many offer access to world class conferencing rooms. They can be booked out and hired by tenants looking for a private space.
There are professional mailbox and telephone services. This is highly useful for entrepreneurs who count the coworking space as their primary office. It allows you to maintain a sense of formality, rather than having letters and calls sent to your personal domicile.
- Nurturing a Healthy Mind
It’s important to realise that being a successful entrepreneur or business owner is about more than just hitting targets. You’ve got to care excellent care of yourself – both your physical and emotional health – because they’re a bit part of progress.
The happier you feel, the more inspired you’ll be, and the easier the ideas will come. Coworking is proven to lift the mood, raise energy levels, and help develop useful character traits. It’s a chance to say no to work isolation and be among like-minded people.
How to Find a Great Coworking Space in Sydney
There are a number of world class coworking facilities in central Sydney. If you do your own research, you’ll find that most are located in impressive parts of the city. The addresses look fantastic on paper, so it’s worth claiming them as your own, particularly if you don’t have a personal, private office yet.
Start your search in and around the financial and retail districts. This is where the best offices will be, but don’t be afraid to shop around. Most providers are happy to take guests on tours of the facilities. You can chat with tenants and get a feel for how the coworking system operates. Then, you can decide if it’s a good fit for your work routine.
