An Introvert’s Guide to Coworking
The Startup ecosystem has brought a shift in the working culture and conventional workspaces. A lot of people are moving into shared and open workspaces today, to avail the popular benefit of networking and collaborating associated with such workspaces. This is where things can get tricky for someone who is an introvert by nature, and the need for an introvert’s guide to coworking is needed more than ever!
How can I sit with so many people around? How do I make cold calls? Aren’t people going to hear what I say? It involves too much interaction. As an introvert, while you would not want to miss out on a good synergy opportunity, the idea of being surrounded by people all the time may create an ounce of doubt and unwillingness in your mind.
For a material fraction of the workforce, the problem of privacy and the pressure to mingle can send introverts racing to the comfort of their homes or a coffee shop.
Is it possible to design a workspace that can help an introvert work productively and thrive?
Is Coworking the answer?
Yes!
Coworking is the kind of environment where extroverts and introverts thrive. People talk to people who want to have a conversation. They ideate and ask for feedback from people they know would like giving them. It is a chain of intellectuals who find each other at the specific place. But they are not all extroverts.
There are a number of ways in which a coworking space can ensure a thriving environment for introverts.
Intellectual Opportunities
A coworking space is typically designed to include interesting paintings and pieces of art. Also, they host a lot of interesting and thought-provoking events from time to time.
It’s not that introverts do not like to communicate at all. It’s just that they are not capable of indulging in small talk. The intellectual opportunities that are present in a coworking space can help introverts get involved in conversations and discussions that they can enjoy.
Breathing Time & Space
Coworking spaces are typically equipped with lounging areas and activities to help you take a breather and just relax. This setting is perfect, especially for an introvert. After an overdose of communication and information, you can take out some breathing time and delve into the comfort of your minds at a coworking space. This luxury is obviously not available in a traditional office setup.
Private Spaces
An introvert usually is very creative and may have a lot of ideas and insights, with some out-of-the-box thinking. However, owing to their nature, they may face the challenge of not being able to introduce these ideas comfortably with a large group of people.
A coworking space has meeting rooms and spaces to equip a closed group of 2-3 people. Access to this kind of setting for a workspace can encourage an introvert to come out with their ideas and thoughts with a lot more comfort.
A coworking space is structured and designed to encourage people to embrace their individuality and bring out the best in them. Being able to adapt to the diversity of personalities and individualities is what brings out the true energy of a coworking space.
Also read, Coworking Tips for Beginners.
For more coworking hacks, click here.
