Like most of the sectors, coworking sector is also facing the heat of COVID-19. At a time when social distancing is the norm, a sector like coworking which is designed to bring people together is deemed to face difficulties.
However, it is not as bad as it appears. In fact, coworking will likely come out stronger from the crisis. Not all have access to amenities needed to effectively work from home. And that is where coworking system comes in.
According to Manas Mehrotra, Chairman, 315Work Avenue, coworking spaces will be appealing during the crisis. As long as the necessary precautions are taken, coworking spaces provide an alternative for businesses looking for a substitute workspace. Read the article to know his thoughts – https://www.timesnownews.com/business-economy/industry/article/co-working-will-emerge-stronger-from-the-covid-19-crisis/583975
COVID-19 may have given us an opportunity to think about the new working model. We can expect a stronger system in place post-pandemic with the focus being on hygiene. Start-ups and small firms may prefer coworking spaces as these places ensure constant sanitizing and regular cleaning of workspace.
You can expect the coworking sector to redesign their system and come up with new business models, work-space design, sanitation practices, and flexible solutions to meet occupants’ specific demands that may arise due to COVID-19. Some of the coworking spaces have cancelled events to avoid social gatherings.
Organisations may seek more flexible packages over rigid monthly or annual plans. Companies might not want to be locked and feel insecure because of the uncertainty that will be lingering for a while now.
The average booking has reduced to hours from months in some cases and this trend is likely to continue for an extended duration. Companies are against long-term contracts, which was not the case earlier.
The shared office space should keep in mind the social distancing while arranging the desks and constant cleaning of high-frequency touch points inside the premises has also become a must. Coworking sector needs to be at its best to convince customers and occupants to be a part of the system.
COVID-19 has challenged the coworking sector to be pro-active, flexible, and disciplined to combat the crisis. And that is what the system needs to do to overcome the hurdle.
