Anyone who has ever worked from a coworking space knows they were doing hybrid working before it became cool (and also, necessary) for the entire planet. Even those who were opting in for monthly memberships were not working from the space daily but sharing their time between the sofa and the desk. The important thing is to have the freedom to choose. So depending on your mood and state of mind, you can use your time the best way possible.
If this is your first time considering changing to hybrid working, there are a couple of things to take into account before you decide to go for it, so the transition from home-office to hybrid is as smooth and painless as possible.
#1 Choose a space that matches your basic needs but also your vibe
You know what they say, not all hybrid work spaces were created equal. While they all might meet your basic needs of a table, chair, stable internet and coffee, not all of them will be suitable to your personality and attitude towards work. Depending on where you are in your career, you might want to choose a place that surrounds you with the focused energy of people getting things done, or a stronger social and party aspect might be more important to you.
Spaces are usually informally divided in industries – tech, startups, creatives, digital nomads, social entrepreneurs. While everyone is welcome at The Collaboratory, we’ve noticed that those who stick around and feel at home are members of the international crowd in Vienna and are serious about their work. Thanks to our coworking with babysitting service, parents feel more than welcome and happy at our space.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is for you to book a desk or a meeting room. Do you have to call, send an email, or do everything conveniently through an app (like our members do).
Most spaces are willing to give away free day passes. Make use of this and see where you fit best.
#2 Research and implement appropriate software
You are probably already using tons of apps. Check whether among them there is a software solution that allows you to have easy and secure access to your files and working tools. A definite perk of hybrid spaces is the possibility to use their amenities and that include onsite computers, recording equipment, printers, scanners, beamers, allowing you to travel light and drop by on a whim.
#3 Create a routine and stick to it
Simply signing up for a hybrid working plan won’t be enough. You will actually have to use it! We, at The Collaboratory, will be checking in with you regularly to make sure you are making the best use of our space possible. However, you should also take the necessary steps to commit to it. Dedicating certain days to the home office and others to working from the space will help you organize your workflow. Scheduling and prioritizing tasks gets easier when you have a favourite place to perform them. For example, if you are working onsite on Tuesdays and Thursdays, use those days for the tasks that need a little bit of inspiration. After all, you can switch seats and rooms to your liking, and easily exchange ideas with others in the space. The rest of the days in the week can be reserved for calls and tasks that you feel more comfortable doing from home.
If you think hybrid might be the way to go, get yourself a daily pass and get yourself a free day at The Collaboratory.
