‘Co-working spaces are a growing trend that's changing how we work’

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern work culture, the traditional office set-up has undergone a remarkable transformation. Co-working spaces have emerged as dynamic alternatives, offering more than just shared desks and conference rooms. Beyond their physical attributes, these spaces have become catalysts for fostering employee engagement and shaping organizational culture.

Speaking to Bizz Buzz exclusively, Hitesh Rohra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Founder, Arohas Co-Working Space, delves at length on the multifaceted impact of co-working spaces on employee engagement and organizational dynamics, shedding light on their role in driving productivity, collaboration, and innovation

Could you give us some idea about how big would be the co-working space market in India and globally?

The global co-working space market has been expanding rapidly. According to some estimates, it was valued at around $26 billion in 2019 and was projected to reach $52 billion by 2024. India has seen a rapid expansion of co-working spaces in major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. The market has been growing at an annual rate of around 25-30 per cent.

So, there has been a fundamental shift in our perceptions about work space, right?

At the heart of the co-working phenomenon lies a fundamental shift in how we perceive the workplace. No longer confined to cubicles and corner offices, employees are now seeking environments that offer flexibility, autonomy, and a sense of community. Co-working spaces embody these values, providing individuals with the freedom to choose where, when, and how they work. This autonomy not only fosters a sense of ownership and accountability but also empowers employees to work in ways that best suit their needs and preferences.

Just to give you an example, the name “Arohas” has its origin in the word “Aroha” which means love, compassion or affectionate in Maori (New Zealand native language). And true to its name, Arohas signifies affectionate regard for its members, because they are treated as guests. Hospitality is at the core of Arohas. Arohas’ logo, reflecting two hexagons arranged to form an infinity, symbolises harmony and balance evident in the culture of Arohas. The warm colours of the logo indicate warmth of care that forms the foundation of services at Arohas. That’s exactly what co-working spaces strive to drive home.

Do you think that it fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, both of the which are need of the hour? If so, how does it do so?

Yes, it does foster a Culture of Collaboration and Innovation. Moreover, co-working spaces serve as hubs of connectivity, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, industries, and skill sets. This diversity of perspectives fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, as employees are exposed to new ideas, approaches, and ways of thinking. Unlike traditional offices where silos and hierarchies often inhibit communication, co-working environments promote open dialogue and knowledge sharing, breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.

The physical design and layout of co-working spaces play a crucial role in shaping employee engagement and interaction. Unlike traditional offices characterized by rigid structures and closed-off spaces, co-working environments are designed to facilitate serendipitous encounters and spontaneous collaboration.

From open-plan workstations to vibrant communal areas, these spaces are intentionally crafted to encourage movement and interaction, fostering a sense of energy and creativity that fuels productivity and engagement.

Does co-working space have some impacts only on the employees, or does it have any significant impact on the organisational culture as well?

In addition to their impact on individual employees, co-working spaces also exert a profound influence on organizational culture. By providing a platform for shared experiences and collective learning, these environments help shape the values, norms, and identity of the organizations that inhabit them. Whether through informal networking events, collaborative projects, or shared amenities, co-working spaces foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie that transcends organizational boundaries, creating a cohesive and vibrant community of professionals.

What about organisational innovation, which is also very important in today’s context? Do co-working spaces help in driving organisational innovation and adaptability, in some way or the other?

Yes, of course. Co-working spaces certainly serve as vehicles for driving organizational innovation and adaptability. By bringing together individuals with diverse skills and backgrounds, these environments provide a fertile ground for cross-pollination of ideas and interdisciplinary collaboration. The dynamic nature of co-working spaces encourages experimentation and risk-taking, empowering employees to challenge the status quo and explore new ways of working. This culture of innovation not only enhances organizational agility but also positions companies to thrive in an increasingly competitive and disruptive marketplace.

Employee engagement and retention are two other crucial areas, any employer has to look into while running an organisation. So, do co-working spaces have any impact on employee engagement and retention? If so, what kind of impact does it have?

The sense of purpose and mission cultivated within co-working communities can have a transformative impact on employee engagement and retention. Unlike traditional offices where employees may feel disconnected from the broader goals and values of the organization, co-working environments foster a sense of alignment and shared purpose. Whether through shared values, social impact initiatives, or collaborative projects, employees are empowered to contribute meaningfully to something greater than themselves, enhancing their sense of fulfillment and engagement in the process.

What kind of role, do you see, co-working spaces playing in fostering productivity, innovation, employee engagement, going forward?

One has to keep in mind that, co-working spaces represent more than just a physical location to work—they are dynamic ecosystems that shape employee engagement and organizational culture in profound ways. By fostering autonomy, collaboration, and community, these environments empower employees to thrive both personally and professionally. As organizations continue to adapt to the changing landscape of work, co-working spaces stand poised to play an increasingly vital role in driving productivity, innovation, and employee engagement in the years to come.