Have you ever walked into a cafe or coworking space and wondered why it’s always full? One might assume that telecommuters would feel more comfortable working from home in their pajamas. Although some do, there’s a powerful force that drives people to get dressed, venture out and work together: the need for connection.
People need people
Humans are social creatures, with a fundamental need for connection and community. When this need goes unmet, loneliness can arise. And as studies have shown, loneliness is a hazard to both your professional productivity and your health. Various studies of elderly people and social isolation conclude that those without adequate social interaction have an dramatically increased risk for premature death. The increased mortality risk is comparable to that of smoking.
The rise of the gig economy has given many workers the freedom to work at home, alone. But many independent employees find that they’re more productive and happy when working in the company of others. This can be in a coffee shop amongst strangers, or in a co-working co-op where you get to know your desk neighbors over time. This basic social need is a big reason why coworking spaces are on the rise.
Working near other people is good for your health and for business
According to a Stanford University study, working independently but in the same social setting as other people helps increase motivation and study.
“Working with others affords enormous social and personal benefits,” writes Gregory Walton, an assistant professor of psychology at Stanford, “Our research found that social cues that conveyed simply that other people treat you as though you are working together on a task — rather than that you are just as working on the same task but separately — can have striking effects on motivation.”
“I find that the hustle and bustle of a cafe keeps me from getting bored,” says Charn Pennewaert, a fractional marketing director. “The energy is different when you are surrounded by people. Working at a cafe or coworking space allows me to generate new ideas and while enjoying the company of others.”
Paying for a coworking space can be a good investment
Although the average cost to rent a coworking facility seems high — many starting at $350 per month — it can be a great solution. According to the Harvard Business Review, the majority of people interviewed who use a coworking space think it’s worth the cost. In fact, 89% of respondents report that they are happier since joining a coworking space, and 79% said coworking has expanded their social network.
Expand your professional network
Working in a cafe or dedicated coworking space not only helps you feel a part of the community, it’s also great way to build your professional network. Looking for even more ways to expand your network? Check out GigX, the world’s premier directory for fractional CxOs. The GigX Directory provides a virtual handshake between fractional director-level and C-level executives with the companies looking to hire great leaders.
