Coworking spaces have become increasingly popular in recent years and have shown great potential as an alternative to traditional office spaces.
According to the Harvard Business Review, coworking spaces can be defined as an office space where employees from diverse backgrounds (freelancers, remote workers, and other business sectors) work together in a shared office setting.

The shift to coworking spaces in South Africa has been a growing trend over the past few years. Especially after more and more companies have moved to a hybrid or flexible work model. One may wonder why this has become such a popular option. According to Khatib (2022), coworking spaces have become a great solution for employers where employees can access amenities, boardrooms, high-speed internet, and other facilities and electricity.

At a time when South Africa’s workforce finds itself facing many challenges due to load shedding and power cuts, coworking spaces can be more cost-effective than renting traditional office spaces. It could also save a company a large amount of time and money in the long run as many companies, lately, rely on generators and other alternative power solutions to supply employees with the necessary resources. Many companies have thus turned to the coworking option, where employees can work without the above interruptions and operational hiccups.

Secondly, coworking spaces can help workers avoid the distractions that come with working from home or in a coffee shop. By providing a dedicated workspace, coworking spaces can help workers stay focused and on-task.

Thirdly, coworking spaces can provide a sense of community and belonging, which can be especially valuable for remote workers or freelancers who may
feel isolated otherwise. Many coworking spaces offer workshops, training sessions, and other professional development opportunities, which can help people improve their skills and grow their businesses.

In addition to the above, coworking spaces can provide a more collaborative and creative work environment than traditional office spaces. They often offer amenities like shared meeting rooms, communal spaces, and networking events, which can foster a sense of community and connection among workers. This can lead to increased motivation, engagement, and creativity. Overall, coworking spaces offer a variety of benefits, making them an attractive option for many people who are looking for a flexible, cost-effective, and collaborative work environment.

If you need a coworking space for yourself or your employees in the Sasolburg area, please consider WorkZone@SLC (an SLC Group initiative). Should you wish to make an appointment, please send an email to workzone@slc.za.com or contact us at +27 16 970 1700. For more information, please visit https://slcgroup.co.za/workzoneslc/.

Sources:
KHATIB, C.  2002. Entrepreneur.com. Available at: http://: Why Coworking Spaces are Considered Productivity Destinations for Employees | Entrepreneur| Entrepreneur.  (Accessed 11 May 2023).