Are you tired of working from home in your pyjamas and being distracted by your fridge? Are you craving some human interaction and a change of scenery? Well, have no fear because managed office spaces are here to save the day! These shared office spaces are like a breath of fresh air for freelancers, gig economy workers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers alike. So, grab your laptop and get ready to enter the world of coworking, where productivity and community collide!
The gig economy is on the rise and more and more people are turning to freelance and self-employment as a career path. The flexibility and autonomy that come with working for oneself are highly attractive to many individuals, but they can also come with a lack of structure and support.
This is where office on rent spaces come in. In this blog post, we’ll explore how coworking spaces support the gig economy and freelancers, and why they’re becoming increasingly popular.
What is the gig economy?
The term “gig economy” refers to a labour market where temporary or freelance work is more common than permanent employment. This includes everything from ride-sharing drivers to freelance writers and graphic designers. According to a recent study by Intuit, by 2020, gig economy workers are expected to make up 43% of the workforce.
The Rise of Gig Economy Jobs: Opportunities
The gig economy, often referred to as the collaborative economy, is a labour market in which freelance or short-term contracts are more common than long-term employment. In recent years, the gig economy has seen a significant increase in popularity, with more and more people turning to gig work as a way to make a living.
One of the biggest drivers of the gig economy is the rise of online platforms that connect workers with employers, such as Uber, Airbnb, and TaskRabbit. These platforms make it easy for people to find and apply for gig work, and for employers to find and hire workers for specific tasks or projects.
There are many benefits to gig economy jobs. For workers, gig jobs offer flexibility and the ability to choose when and where to work. They also provide an opportunity for people who may not have traditional employment options, such as stay-at-home parents or people with disabilities, to earn an income. For employers, gig jobs can be a cost-effective way to fill temporary or seasonal labor needs, or to find highly skilled professionals for specific projects.
In addition, gig economy jobs can lead to financial stability as they provide an opportunity to earn a steady income. Gig jobs also offer the freedom to create a work-life balance, which is essential for personal and professional growth and overall well-being.
Overall, the gig economy has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for workers and employers alike. With the continued growth of online platforms and the increasing demand for gig work, we can expect to see even more opportunities for gig work in the future.
Links Between Co-Working and the Gig Economy
Gig workers can use coworking spaces to use a workspace as-needed, even without spending money or signing long-term rental agreements.
Further, most coworking spaces also promote a sense of community, which is helpful if you’re working on your own and miss the company of your coworkers.
According to research, 83% of people are less likely to feel lonely after joining a coworking space, and 80% seek aid or guidance from other coworking members.
This is likely because coworking spaces serve as the ideal environment for gig workers to meet and network. They often aid people in expanding their businesses and establishing important professional relationships.
Not to mention the complimentary tea and coffee that are frequently provided, as well as a slew of additional amenities.
Some coworking spaces target specific niche markets. They have even opened up restaurants and hotels to accommodate the needs of the current workforce that are increasingly becoming more flexible.
Gig workers can provide the people required to fill a space, allowing coworking spaces to increase their revenue.
Why are coworking spaces becoming increasingly popular?
Coworking spaces are shared office spaces where individuals from different companies and industries can work alongside each other. They offer a sense of community and collaboration, as well as access to resources and amenities that may be difficult for solo freelancers to access on their own.
The benefits of coworking for freelancers and gig economy workers include:
- Community and networking opportunities: Coworking spaces provide a sense of community and the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals. This can be particularly valuable for freelancers who may otherwise feel isolated working from home.
- Access to resources and amenities: Many coworking spaces offer access to resources and amenities such as meeting rooms, printing facilities, and high-speed internet. These resources can be expensive for freelancers to access on their own.
- Cost-effective: Renting a private office can be expensive, especially for freelancers and small business owners. Coworking spaces offer a more cost-effective option for those who need a professional work environment but don’t require a full-time office space.
- Flexibility: Coworking spaces offer flexible options for freelancers and gig economy workers who may not need a full-time office space. Some spaces offer hourly or daily rates, making it easy for freelancers to drop in and work as needed.
- Improved productivity: The environment of a coworking space can help freelancers and gig economy workers to focus and be more productive. It’s easier to maintain a work-life balance when you have a designated work area.
How do coworking spaces support the gig economy?
Coworking spaces provide a support system for freelancers and gig economy workers, which is especially important for those who may not have the resources or community that a traditional office environment provides.
- Professional environment: Coworking spaces offer a professional environment for freelancers and gig economy workers to work in. This can be especially important for those who may not have a dedicated office space or work from home.
- Access to resources and amenities: As mentioned earlier, coworking spaces offer access to resources and amenities that may be difficult for freelancers to access on their own. This includes meeting rooms, printing facilities, and high-speed internet.
- Opportunities for collaboration: Coworking spaces provide opportunities for collaboration and networking with like-minded individuals. This can be especially valuable for freelancers who may otherwise feel isolated working from home.
- Support and advice: Coworking spaces often have a community manager or other staff on hand to provide support and advice to members. This can be especially valuable for freelancers who may not have a mentor or supervisor to turn to for guidance.
- Cost-effective: Coworking spaces offer a cost-effective option for freelancers and gig economy workers who require the latest technology and resources. They offer a comfortable and professional environment for people to work in, which can help to maintain a work-life balance.
How to find the perfect coworking space for the gig economy and freelancers?
Finding the perfect coworking space can be a daunting task for gig economy workers and freelancers. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of finding the perfect coworking space for your needs.
- Assessing Your Needs
Before you start your search for a coworking space, it’s important to assess your needs. Ask yourself the following questions:
- How often will you be using the space?
- What kind of environment do you prefer?
- How much privacy do you need?
- What kind of amenities is important to you?
Answering these questions will help you narrow down your search and find a coworking space that meets your specific needs.
- Finding the Right Location
The location of a coworking space is an important factor to consider. You want to find a space that is easily accessible for you, whether that means being close to public transportation or having ample parking. Think about your daily commute and how much time and money you’re willing to spend on it.
You may also want to consider the neighborhood and the surrounding businesses. Are there restaurants and cafes nearby for lunch breaks? Are there shops or stores for errands? Are there other businesses in the area that could be beneficial for networking or collaboration opportunities?
- Researching the Space
Once you’ve narrowed down your search to a few potential coworking spaces, it’s time to do some research. Take a look at the space’s website and read reviews from other freelancers and gig economy workers. Reach out to the space and schedule a tour. This will give you a chance to see the space in person and get a sense of the atmosphere and community.
Ask about the amenities offered and what is included in the membership fee. Check if they have high-speed internet, printing and scanning facilities, meeting rooms, and other essential services. See if they have any events or networking opportunities.
- Checking the Cost
Cost is always an important consideration when choosing a coworking space. Be sure to ask about the different membership options and what they include. Some spaces offer flexible monthly memberships, while others may require a long-term commitment.
It’s also important to factor in additional costs, such as parking or printing fees. Make sure you have a clear understanding of all the costs associated with the space before making a decision.
- Try Before You Buy
Before committing to a coworking space, consider trying it out for a day or a week. Many spaces offer trial memberships or day passes, which will give you a chance to experience the space and see if it’s the right fit for you.
Finding the perfect coworking space can take some time and effort, but it’s worth it in the end. By assessing your needs, researching the space, and considering the location and cost, you’ll be able to find a coworking space that meets your specific needs as a freelancer or gig economy worker. So, take your time, weigh your options and choose the one that feels like the best fit for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, coworking spaces provide a valuable support system for freelancers and gig economy workers, entrepreneurs, small business owners, and remote workers. They offer a sense of community, access to resources and amenities, and a professional work environment. They are cost-effective and flexible, providing opportunities for collaboration and networking.
As the gig economy continues to grow and the trend of working from home increases, coworking spaces will play an even more important role in providing the structure and support that many individuals need to thrive in the gig economy.