Coworking was conceived by a tech freelancer named Brad Neuberg, who opened the first official coworking office in San Francisco in 2005. There were few alternatives at the time. Business centers were officious and decidedly non-social, and he wanted some social stimulus to counterpoint the boredom he felt working from home.
Coworking solved his problem. And while it wasn’t a runaway hit right away, the idea of it caught on pretty quickly.
From humble beginnings to global disruption
Today, coworking is a worldwide movement. As of mid-2019, there are more than 35,000 coworking spaces in the world, with a market value of over $26 billion.
Is coworking trendy? Absolutely. Is it for everybody? Probably not. But what coworking does offer is flexible support for the way we work today. For small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers, it’s a solution that makes so many things possible.
Here’s why:
Coworking is affordable
Most people who are starting a new business need to watch their budget. A traditional office lease is not only costly, but it is a huge responsibility. You’re locked in for a period of time, and if your business fails, you’re on the hook for that money. Plus, you have to foot the bill for office equipment, phone lines, utilities, cleaning services, and more.
Coworking, on the other hand, is about as plug-and-play as it gets. The furniture, the technology, and the amenities are done for you, all for a low monthly fee that is a fraction of the cost of a conventional office.
Coworking is high-energy
Even if the other coworking members are not in the same industry as you, you’ll be working side-by-side with highly-motivated individuals, just like yourself. Many coworking enthusiasts describe the experience as energizing, spurring them to new heights of productivity simply because they are working in proximity to it.
Coworking is an opportunity to network
When you’re growing your business, you will probably need the services of freelancers. Coworking spaces are hotbeds of freelancing talent, so you won’t have to look too far to find talented people to help you out. From graphic designers to app developers to copywriters, that person sitting across from you will be happy to help. Who knows, you might just pick up some new business for yourself.
Freelancing can be lonely at times. Whether you’re working from home or sitting in a coffee shop, you can go all day without speaking to a living soul. Coworking spaces offer plenty of opportunities to socialize, and most organize regular networking events for their members. And since none of you are working for the same company, there are no internal disputes, favoritism, or unfair behaviors to deal with.
These are just a handful of the reasons why small businesses in South Florida are turning to coworking. If you live and work in Weston, FL, drop by Lakeside Executive Suites for a tour. Our coworking packages are flexible, affordable, and come complete with every amenity you need to grow your business strong.
