How to Make the Switch from Remote Work to Coworking
This guide helps professionals transition from remote work to coworking spaces, offering practical tips on productivity, communication, workspace setup, and networking to thrive in a hybrid work environment.
How to Make the Switch from Remote Work to Coworking
The world of work has never been more diverse, and remote work has exploded in popularity in the past few years. But so have coworking spaces, with their collaborative networking opportunities and the added bonus of human interaction.
The remote approach and in-office approach are at opposite ends of the spectrum, and most workers do best with a style of work that combines both. This model is called hybrid working.
Hybrid working is in the “sweet spot” between remote work and full-time in-office work. But before you can put a hybrid work model in place, you need to plan carefully. With a little extra care and consideration, you can maximize the benefits of using both types of work environments without being overwhelmed by the switch.
In this article, we’ll share our top tips for navigating the change from working remotely to using a coworking space. By following these steps, you can make sure the change is seamless and doesn’t interfere with your productivity.
1. Balance routine and flexibility
Remote work is popular because of the freedom of choice it provides. That said, having structure is still important, as it sets clear boundaries between personal and professional time.
Consider giving yourself some set working hours during the day, which are non-negotiable regardless of location. Time outside of these core hours can be more flexible. This way, you have a model that keeps your productivity consistent without sacrificing too much flexibility.
2. Tap into coworking
Coworking spaces are more than just shared offices. They can be seen as a place for innovation, offering scores of different amenities to meet all of your professional needs. Beyond the basic facilities, many coworking spaces offer features like conference rooms, soundproof booths for calls, brainstorming areas, and breakout spaces.
Take full advantage of your coworking space’s amenities, and plan your work days around them to bolster productivity. For example, schedule team meetings or client presentations on the days you’re in the office and have access to a conference room. Solo projects and non-client-facing work can be done remotely.
3. Make a portable office toolkit
Are you moving between a coworking space, home office, and local coffee shop regularly? Create a “portable office toolkit” so you can easily switch between locations. This toolkit is more than just your laptop – the goal is to craft a fully-mobile version of your workstation.
Your kit should include:
- A durable and organized laptop bag
- Portable external hard drives or flash drives
- Laptop and phone chargers
- Noise-canceling headphones
- A notebook or planner
Having your toolkit handy will save you time and reduce the disruption that comes with switching work environments.
4. Know communication is king
Effective communication is a must when you’re working in a hybrid environment. Everyone needs to be in sync.
Make sure your team and clients know where you’re working from each day and why. For example, if you’re in a coworking space, let them know you’re available for face-to-face meetings. If you’re working remotely on tasks that need your full attention, let them know you won’t be as easy to reach that day.
You can also take advantage of digital tools that streamline communication. Use a platform that sends out status updates, telling your team whether you’re coworking, remote, or just unavailable.
5. Be mindful
The move to hybrid working won’t just be a physical shift, but a mental one, too. Diving deeply into work at your home office requires a completely different mindset to networking or collaborating in a coworking space.
It can be helpful to have small routines and rituals that help you wind down. This can be as simple as a short walk or a relaxing cup of tea at the end of the day. When the option of working is always present, being mindful of the need to decompress and relax is key.
6. Personalize your workspace
Your home office will probably reflect your personality well. But coworking spaces are designed to be blank slates that a variety of people can make their own.
If you have a dedicated workstation, adding personal touches like plants and photographs can create a sense of continuity between your home and coworking environments. Feeling comfortable and “at home” while coworking can boost your productivity, so take steps to bridge the gap between the two types of spaces.
7. Make the most of networking
One of the main reasons people use coworking spaces is for the networking potential. Being surrounded by professionals from other fields who you can learn from and collaborate with is a huge advantage.
Plan your coworking days around the events and meetups hosted at the office. Many coworking spaces have skill-sharing workshops or mixers that can be great for networking and professional growth. And don’t limit yourself to special events.
During regular work days, take time to introduce yourself to someone new and get to know them. This could be as simple as saying hello as you’re making a cup of coffee near another colleague. You never know where it could lead!
Key Takeaway
Switching from remote work to coworking doesn’t have to be stressful. By balancing routine and flexibility, making use of coworking amenities, maintaining clear communication, and taking advantage of networking opportunities, you can enjoy the best of both worlds and thrive in a hybrid work environment.
