Common Challenges: Solutions To The 5 Most Common Coworking Space Problems

As many of today’s workplaces embrace a remote work model (at least in part), coworking spaces are becoming more popular. There are nearly 20,000 coworking spaces across the country, and you may have walked right by one without even realizing it. 

As with any non-traditional workspace, the coworking environment poses some challenges. As beneficial as they are in providing a common place for employees and freelancers to collaborate, they do have their downsides. Let’s explore these common problems and what you can do to overcome them. 

1. Noise and Distraction

Coworking spaces – often called serviced offices – are full of people not necessarily working together or from the same company. This can result in a lot of loud talking, jingling smartphones, and even loud typing as everyone collaborates on their various projects. For anyone who needs quiet to concentrate and be productive, this can be a problem. 

Employers can minimize these distractions by providing noise-canceling headphones or choosing a coworking space that offers private rooms. 

2. Lack of Privacy

A lack of privacy can hinder productivity and creativity. Unfortunately, privacy is hard to come by in a coworking space. Sure, some coworking providers offer private rooms, but for the most part, everyone is lumped together in a large, open area. 

For teams that require privacy and less distraction, companies can erect dividers between desks. This tactic won’t eliminate the noise of the surrounding workers, but it will help your team members stay focused and feel less conspicuous. 

3. Lack of Space

A lack of space in a coworking environment can cause some team members to feel claustrophobic. This is especially true when their job requires them to make phone calls and there is a lot of background noise. It can be frustrating for your team members and can come across as unprofessional to the clients or business contacts they’re calling. 

If your project requires a good amount of room or you must interact on the phone with clients or customers, you may want to consider leasing a private coworking space for your team. This will ensure everyone has the space and quiet they need to do their jobs efficiently and professionally. 

4. Insufficient Equipment

Not all coworking spaces are created equal. Indeed, you may find that your serviced office doesn’t include all the equipment your team needs to do their jobs efficiently. If this happens to be the case, you’ll need to consider providing the missing equipment yourself. From extension cords to sit/stand desks and more, investing in your team is money well spent, no matter where you and they happen to work. 

5. Inability to Personalize 

When they have their own permanent desks, employees often decorate them with personal items such as pictures, cards, and mementos. This personalization may not be possible in a coworking space, especially if the employees work at a different desk each day or the owner doesn’t allow tenants to decorate their spaces as they wish. If this is something you and your staff feel is important, check into coworking spaces that allow for personalization to help your employees feel more at home. 

Despite the challenges listed above, businesses shouldn’t bypass coworking spaces as an alternative to the traditional office. Coworking spaces offer a host of benefits, including free coffee and snacks, a sense of community, flexibility, and even games and events. 

Addressing the challenges of coworking spaces can help employees be more productive and feel more satisfied in their jobs while reducing overhead costs for employers.