Coworking spaces are the hottest new trend, offering an ideal blend of flexibility, comfort, and endless networking opportunities. These vibrant offices are charged with energy and enthusiasm, providing a great way to boost your productivity and creativity. Working in a visually stunning and innovative space while connecting with like-minded individuals can alleviate the monotony and loneliness of remote work.
However, if you’re new to coworking, getting caught up in the excitement is easy. While beneficial, the social component of coworking spaces can sometimes hinder productivity. Want to maximise your time in a coworking environment without getting distracted? Let’s explore some tips to enable you to take advantage of the social benefits while maintaining high productivity levels.
What is Workspace productivity?
Workspace productivity refers to the efficiency and effectiveness with which tasks and goals are achieved within a given work environment. It involves the optimal use of time, resources, and energy to produce the best possible outcomes. A productive workspace enables employees to focus, collaborate, and complete their tasks efficiently. Factors such as layout, lighting, technology, and organisational culture play crucial roles in enhancing workspace productivity.
Why is productivity a concern in a coworking space?
Productivity in a coworking space can be a significant concern due to several reasons:
- Distractions: Coworking spaces are often bustling with activity. The presence of multiple businesses and freelancers in one area can lead to distractions. Noise, movement, and frequent interruptions can hamper an individual’s focus and productivity.
- Lack of Personal Space: Unlike traditional offices where employees have designated desks or offices, coworking spaces often feature open-plan layouts. This can lead to a lack of personal space, making it difficult for some individuals to concentrate and work effectively.
- Varied Work Styles: Coworking spaces attract a diverse group of people with different work styles and schedules. This diversity, while enriching, can also pose challenges in terms of coordinating and maintaining a productive environment.
- Resource Sharing: Shared resources such as meeting rooms, printers, and internet bandwidth can become bottlenecks, affecting productivity. Waiting for access to these resources can lead to delays and inefficiencies.
What is the importance of workspace productivity?
Coworking space productivity is crucial for several reasons:
- Increased Efficiency: A productive workspace enables employees to complete tasks faster and with greater accuracy. This efficiency can lead to significant time and cost savings for businesses.
- Employee Satisfaction: When employees can work efficiently and effectively, they are likely to experience higher job satisfaction. A productive work environment can reduce stress and increase morale.
- Enhanced Quality of Work: Productivity is closely linked to the quality of output. A well-organised workspace can be conducive to better quality work, which in turn can enhance a company’s reputation and success.
- Competitive Advantage: Businesses that prioritise workspace productivity can gain a competitive edge. They can deliver products and services faster and with better quality than their competitors.
What are the benefits of a productive workspace?
There are many benefits of a productive workspace. We have listed 4 important ones here:
- Improved Collaboration: A productive workspace often features collaborative tools and spaces that encourage teamwork. For example, designated meeting areas, shared digital platforms, and open communication channels can enhance collaboration.
- Better Work-Life Balance: Productivity tools and a well-designed workspace can help employees manage their time better, allowing for a healthier work-life balance. Flexible workspaces and remote work options, supported by efficient technology, can contribute to this balance.
- Higher Motivation Levels: Employees working in a productive environment are generally more motivated. A clean, organised, and well-equipped workspace can inspire employees to perform at their best.
- Scalability: A productive workspace can easily adapt to changes, such as business growth or the addition of new team members. Flexible layouts and scalable technology solutions can support this adaptability.
How to make your workspace productive?
Whether you work from home or in a coworking space, it’s essential to maintain self-discipline and hold yourself accountable. You can optimise any workspace and boost your output by implementing our productivity hacks.
Step #1: Set Clear Goals and Priorities
Before heading to your coworking space, outline what you must accomplish for the day. Having a clear set of goals and priorities will help you stay focused. Break down your tasks into manageable chunks and set deadlines for each. Tools like to-do lists, project management apps, or digital calendars can be beneficial. Having a clear roadmap makes you less likely to get sidetracked by the social environment.
Step #2: Create A Schedule
Working in a coworking environment makes it easy to get distracted and lose sight of your goals, especially when those around you might not have the same deadlines. Planning your day, managing your time, keeping track of your accomplishments, and holding yourself accountable is essential for increasing productivity. Bringing a detailed task list to the coworking space will help you stay focused. It will also encourage accountability and help in maintaining your focus.
Step #3: Use meeting rooms or private rooms
This one is a no-brainer. If you’re on deadline for a critical project or trying to find peace to think, write, or hold a private work conversation, then book a private work or meeting room.
Step #4: Establish a Routine
Consistency can significantly enhance productivity. Establish a routine that suits your work style and stick to it. Arriving at the coworking space at approximately the same time consistently can help signal to your brain that it’s time to work. Additionally, incorporating regular breaks into your schedule can help maintain high energy levels and prevent burnout.
Step #5: Keep Your Work space Clean & Organised
It’s crucial to keep your desk clean and clutter-free. Maintaining a neat and aesthetically pleasing workspace can significantly affect productivity. An organised workspace allows easy access to required tools and resources, saving time and reducing frustration. Personalising your desk with pictures of loved ones, plants, inspirational quotes, or personal mementos can cultivate a sense of individuality that fosters productivity. Moreover, an orderly workspace can establish a professional impression on clients and coworkers, creating a more favourable work environment.
Step #6: Tune Out the Noise & Minimise Distractions
Noise is a common distraction in coworking spaces, often delaying task completion. To maintain focus, it’s crucial to minimise surrounding noises. Headphones can be effective for those who prefer to listen to music while working. This will enable them to concentrate without being disrupted by conversations at full volume. Even if there is no music playing, wearing headphones might give the impression to others that you are deeply focused on your work and should not be interrupted.
Step #7: Communicate with Other Members During Work Breaks
Sitting at your desk all day, staring blankly at your monitor, can be exhausting and counterproductive. Taking breaks in between tasks is essential to refresh and reset your mind. Dedicating time to socialising and networking with other coworking members is also important. Instead of engaging in small talk, focus on building genuine friendships and working relationships, which could potentially lead to a valuable partnership.
Step #8: Leverage Technology for Focus
Leverage technology to enhance focus in the workplace by incorporating features like occupancy sensors for space planning, bright lighting, and collaboration tools. Apps and voice assistants streamline operations, optimising efficiency and enhancing employee experiences by dynamically responding to evolving needs.
Step #9: Take Advantage of Amenities
Many coworking spaces offer coffee bars and relaxation areas. Use these amenities strategically to recharge and maintain productivity. A quick coffee break can refresh your mind and boost your energy levels, making you more efficient when you return to work.
Step #10:. Reflect and Adjust
Assess your productivity levels regularly and adjust your strategies accordingly. If you find certain aspects of the coworking environment distracting, try changing your seating arrangement, altering your routine, or using different productivity tools. Flexibility and a willingness to adapt are key to making the most of a coworking space.
Tips to make coworking space productive
- Designate Zones: Create specific areas for different activities, such as quiet zones for focused work, collaborative areas for teamwork, and break zones for relaxation. This can help minimise distractions and optimise productivity.
- Utilise Technology: Leverage productivity tools and software to streamline workflows. Project management tools like Trello or Asana, communication platforms like Slack, and time-tracking apps can enhance efficiency.
- Encourage Flexibility: Allow employees to choose where and how they work best. Flexible work arrangements can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction.
- Foster a Positive Culture: Encourage a culture of recognition and support. Regular feedback, team-building activities, and recognition programs can boost morale and productivity.
- Maintain a Sustainable Environment: Ensure the workspace is well-lit, ventilated, and ergonomically designed. Providing healthy snacks and encouraging regular breaks can also support overall well-being and productivity.
Why Choose GO (Garden Office) Bermondsey for A Productive Day at Work?
GO (Garden Office) Bermondsey coworking space in London is an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost productivity and join a vibrant community of creative and innovative individuals. Here’s why:
- Prime Location
Situated on Tanner Street in London, Garden Office Bermondsey is easily accessible from London Bridge Station and is surrounded by a lively neighbourhood that inspires creativity and collaboration.
- Modern and Comfortable Design
Our workspace is designed to blend comfort with modern aesthetics, ensuring you can work efficiently in a pleasant environment.
- Fully-Furnished Private Offices
For those who need privacy, our fully furnished private offices provide a quiet and dedicated space to focus on their work without distractions.
- High-Tech Meeting Rooms
Our high-tech meeting rooms are perfect for team meetings, client presentations, and brainstorming sessions, and we are equipped with the latest technology to support your needs.
- Collaborative Environment
Being part of GO Bermondsey means joining a community of like-minded professionals. The collaborative environment encourages networking, idea-sharing, and innovative thinking.
Experience the benefits of our consciously designed office spaces by scheduling a tour and see why GO Bermondsey is the ideal place for a productive day at work.