What is Hot Desking? A Complete Guide to the Modern Workspace Trend

In recent years, how we work has changed dramatically. More flexible and dynamic work environments are replacing the traditional office setup, with its assigned desks and cubicles. Two trends that have become especially popular are hot-desking and coworking. This article will help you understand what hot-desking and coworking are, how to make them work successfully, and how they’re shaping the future of work.

What is Hot-Desking/Coworking?

A flexible workspace setup where workers from different companies do not have assigned desks. Instead, desks are available on a first-come, first-served basis. When arriving at the office, you choose any workstation to use for the day. This approach is designed to make better use of office space and encourage a more collaborative work environment.

Why Are Hot-Desking and Coworking Becoming Popular?

Several factors are driving the popularity of hot-desking and coworking, such as the rise of remote work, and the need for businesses to cut costs. As more people work remotely or on flexible schedules, the need for permanent desks has decreased. Hot-desking offers a way for companies to make better use of their office space and reduce the number of empty desks.

Coworking spaces have also become popular with freelancers, startups, and even large companies looking for flexible office solutions. These spaces provide a professional work environment without the high costs or long-term commitment of traditional office leases. Coworking encourages networking and collaborations among people from different industries, creating a vibrant and dynamic work atmosphere.

Making Hot-Desking and Coworking Work: Best Practices

To make hot-desking or coworking successful, it’s important to take a thoughtful approach that considers both the benefits and challenges. Here are some tips:

• Respect Fellow Workers: In any shared workspace, respecting others is key. This includes keeping noise levels to a minimum, being mindful of shared resources, and leaving the workspace as you found it. Understanding that everyone is there to do their best work helps maintain a positive atmosphere. If you're taking a call or having a discussion, consider moving to a designated area to avoid disturbing others.
   
• Foster a Positive Culture: Encourage a culture of flexibilty and respect. Employees should feel comfortable adapting to the hot-desking system and should be supported in finding a work style that suits them. In coworking spaces, fostering a sense of community through events, networking opportunites, and social activites can enhance the overall experience.
   
• Keep It Clean: Cleanliness is crucial in shared workspaces. Make it a habit to tidy up your workstation before you leave. Dispose of any waste, wipe down surfaces, and organize your belongings. It's also important to respect communal areas like kitchens, restrooms, and meeting rooms. Keeping these areas clean ensures that everyone can enjoy a pleasant and hygienic work environment.

• Be Flexible and Adaptable: Shared workspaces often require a level of flexibility. You might not always get your preferred desk or spot, so it’s important to be adaptable. Embrace the opportunity to work in different areas, which can also help you interact with new people and gain fresh perspectives. Being open to change and ready to adjust to different situations will make your experience in a shared space more enjoyable and less stressful.
   
• Manage Your Technology Needs: Make sure you have everything you need to work effectively, including chargers, headphones, and any other tech accessories. In a shared workspace, it’s also important to use communal resources like printers and internet connections considerately.
   
• Communicate Clearly and Politely: Good communication is key in a shared environment. If you need to use a meeting room, reserve it in advance and be punctual. If you accidentally take someone’s spot, apologise and speak with the team about booking for another time. Clear and polite communication helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels respected.
   
• Engage with the Community: Participating in events, joining conversations, and networking with others can enhance your work experience. Building relationships with your coworkers can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and a sense of belonging. While it’s important to stay focused on your work, taking the time to connect with others can make your time in a shared space more rewarding.

If you’ve been considering hot-desking or coworking, the next step is to spend some time weighing up the pros and cons of this way of working. There are many pros and cons, some of which you may not have considered yet. These include the flexibility that hot-desking can offer, and the cost savings compared to a private office, vs the lack of privacy you might face in a coworking space. For some the flexibility outweighs any disadvantages, but for others it might not be the right fit.

Hot-desking and coworking are more than just trends; they reflect the changing nature of work. As businesses strive to become more agile, cost-effective, and collaborative, these flexible workspace models offer solutions that meet these demands. Looking for a coworking space in Borehamwood contact us today to find out our availability.