In this episode we go even deeper in exploring the co-working scenarios. We will discuss several ways of work life sharing to help you be efficient and effective.
If you decided to run your company as a sole-owner/worker, this is something well worth looking at. Running your own business does not mean you have to do it all alone. On the contrary, co-operations of different kinds is a way to strengthen your company and diminish the risk of your own limitations, whether in time, skills or energy.
Shared workspaces
Especially in the beginning when you don’t have staff, one other option to keep energy up if you don’t like to be alone is to join a shared workspace. These can be found in almost all cities. For a one-time fee or a subscription you get access to a co-working space.
Choosing this option is oftentimes a cheaper alternative to renting an office space. At the same time it allows you to meet other people and therefore have a more social daily life when compared to working alone in an office or at home.
Another advantage of using a shared office comes, again, from people. There you are likely to meet professionals from all sorts of industries, from accounting, law and management to marketing, IT and arts. People who may work with the same customer segment can also provide synergy effects. This gives you the opportunity to find new partnerships or even clients. And it also offers you a more stimulating environment. Even a small coffee chat with someone with a completely different perspective can be a real eye opener and a great learning experience. Entrepreneurs and freelancers can always benefit from a networking opportunity.
Networks, associations, and groups
Another way you can share your work life with others is by joining networks, associations, and groups.
Depending on the industry and level of development that you are in, there are dedicated organizations which you could join. There are global associations, as well as national, or even local associations. For example, if you were to open a coaching business (like Guldkanten) you could join the International Coaching Federation (ICF) which brings together coaches from all over the world. Like ICF, many organizations host events and meetings where professionals can meet, exchange experience and lessons, give and receive advice and solve problems together.
Personal network
Alternatively, you can put time into building your personal network.When setting up your own business and while running your operations you are bound to meet all sorts of professionals, some of whom you will probably find inspiring or interesting. Reach out to these people and connect with them. Similarly, if you complete any training program, many trainers have alumni networks which you can later remain a part of. There you are likely to meet other entrepreneurs and freelancers just like you.
As I myself am working in a small town in the Swedish countryside, for many years I had no opportunity for meeting people in my industry locally everyday - there was only one coach in the area. And that was me. However, that has rarely felt like a problem. I always feel that I have a colleague I can call or send an email to and start a conversation with if I need an additional perspective on something. I also use forum groups online. I hang out there and get inspiration from my coaching association that monitors my questions and keeps me updated with what's happening in the industry.
Locally I network with people from other industries, giving me inspiration, ideas and excellent benchmarking that has helped me develop my company outside the box thinking of my own industry.
Join us in the next episode as we share with you the basics of sharing assignments and tasks.