Top 5 Reasons to Try Coworking

As the saying goes: we are products of our environments. The right space has the power to boost our productivity, spark creativity and take our work to the next level. As we look towards the future, it’s no surprise that remote workers are gravitating towards coworking spaces — the perfect alternative to working from home that offers plenty of benefits.

“Coworking provides flexibility and an inspiring space for those working from home,” says Paula Kennedy, director of strategic growth at Staples. “This past year we have seen a surge in interest in [coworking space] Staples Studio,” which has five locations across Canada.

Whether you’re a teleworker, entrepreneur or small business owner, if you’ve been curious about coworking, here are five reasons why you should give it a go:

1. Coworking gives opportunities to socialize and network

Coworking spaces, like Staples Studio, don’t only offer a place to work, but an opportunity to connect to a greater community of like-minded individuals pursuing their passions.

“We are the most social animals on this planet, and our close social connections help us to dissipate the negative emotions while feeling support and love from those important to us,” says Steve Joordens, a professor of psychology at the University of Toronto. “We often meet our closest social connections in the workplace. Those who avoid the workplace are avoiding a context that could provide them with a critical mental health support system down the road.”

While coworking spaces used to be geared to the self-employed creative, they now cater to a wide variety of workers — solopreneurs, budding podcasters, working moms, teachers, students and the like — making them the perfect place for minds from different backgrounds and fields to network and inspire each other.

2. It can help with work-life balance and productivity

Remote work has blurred the lines between work and home life, making it hard to disconnect and disengage once you’ve clocked out. Coworking spaces can help define that separation and even boost your efficiency. “For many remote workers, their current home environment is just not conducive to being productive,” says Kennedy. Among the barriers, she lists distractions, space limitations and home office set-ups that aren’t ergonomically friendly.

3. There are amazing amenities

Coworking spaces like Staples Studio are full of necessary amenities members can take full advantage of. Not only is the space itself modern and wired, but there are kitchens, unlimited coffee and tea, private offices, ergonomic chairs, desks, high-speed Wi-Fi, podcast booths, and even a state-of-the-art event space. Whether you’re taking calls virtually, meeting a client or hosting a video conference, coworking spaces can also provide a professional environment that will make a great first impression.

4. It can give you a regular routine or the flexibility you need

Coworking spaces are ideal if you like to have structure in your day as it gives you the opportunity to change environments for tasks, like taking a call in a private meeting room, and also provides you with a commute before and after work (did we mention there’s free parking?)

On the other hand, if your day requires more flexibility, coworking spaces can provide that, too. Not only is Staples Studio open 24/7, but there are a variety of membership options to choose from depending on your needs. “We offer flexible options for those that want to work occasionally or full-time,” says Kennedy. “No-long term commitment is necessary.” Some of those options include day passes, 10-day packs, virtual membership and more.

5. Members get serious perks

Aside from amenities, Staples Studio members also have access to health and wellness programs, a Community Manager dedicated to meeting your special requirements, curated in-studio and virtual programming for professional development, a community of professionals across North America, discounts on Products and Services in retail and so much more. Best of all? Staples Studio is conveniently located right next to Staples, making it easy to source any products you need. While you’re there, be sure to check out Solutionshop’s services that can help prepare you for that pitch.

“Anyone can benefit from a coworking space, especially if you’re primarily working from home,” Kennedy says. “It’s a great way to break up the monotony … and each [location] has its own vibe.”

Visit studio.staples.ca to select a location and book a virtual tour to learn more.