Let’s talk about something that’s been a game-changer for many of us, online co-working. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Great, another Zoom call to add to my calender.”
But hear me out, because this isn’t your typical meeting where you zone out while Peter from finance drones on about spreadsheets. Those days are long gone – you’re Freelance now, baby!
With online co-working you get the productivity boost of working alongside others, minus the commute or requirement to wear office attire. Win-win, right?
So, why should you give online co-working a shot?
Accountability on Steroids
There’s something magical about knowing other people are grinding alongside you. It’s like peer pressure, but for productivity. When you know others are watching (even if they’re just little squares on a screen), you’re less likely to fall into a 3-hour TikTok rabbit hole. Just don’t forget that other are present. 🥸
Structure Without the Stuffy Office Vibes
Remember when you had to be at your desk by 9am sharp? Yeah, we don’t miss that either. But having some structure can be nice. Online co-working gives you that gentle nudge to get stuff done, without the soul-crushing fluorescent lights.
Human Interaction (Without the Small Talk)
Let’s face it, working from home can get lonely. Sometimes you just want to see a face that isn’t your cat’s 😽. Online co-working lets you connect with other humans without having to make awkward small talk about the weather.
Hosting Your Own Online Co-Working Session
Now, how do we make this work without it turning into a hot mess? Here are some tips:
Plan Ahead (Because Spontaneity is Overrated)
Nobody wants to be the only one showing up to the party. Advertise your co-working session in advance. It’s like sending out invites, but for work. Sexy, I know.
Set Clear Expectations (No Surprises, Please)
Let people know what they’re in for. Co-Working is traditionally a silent-affair, remember.
Choose Your Tech Wisely
Zoom is great, but that 40-minute limit on the free plan is a mood killer. Google Meet is a solid free alternative. Just make sure whatever you use won’t crash mid-session and leave everyone staring at their own reflection.
Establish Some Ground Rules
Mute those mics (we don’t need to hear your dog barking at the mailman). Decide on the structure – maybe 5 minutes of chit-chat, then set intentions, then silence, with a wrap-up at the end. It’s like a productivity sandwich.
Time It Right
90 minutes seems to be the sweet spot, but you do you. If you’re going for 2 hours, throw in a 5-minute break. It’s not a marathon (unless you want it to be).
Create the Vibe
Encourage everyone to find their happy place. Whether that’s a desk, a couch, or hanging upside down like a bat – whatever works. With mics muted, people can blast their own tunes or podcasts. My jam is some Productivity Instrumental LoFi playlist from Spotify.
Keep It Intimate
Groups of up to 10 work best. It’s like a dinner party, but with less wine and more work. Actually, scratch that – you can totally have wine if that’s your thing 👀.
Follow Up
After the session, get some feedback. What worked? What didn’t? Was Peter from finance there somehow?
Be Flexible
Be open to changing things up based on what people want. Longer sessions, more time for a quick chatter before you get down to business.
Ready to Give It a Shot?
If you’re thinking, “Hey, this sounds pretty cool” – you’re in luck. We’re running daily co-working sessions at 2pm for 90 minutes.
So, what do you say? Ready to boost your productivity without changing out of your pyjamas?
If you’ve tried online co-working before, share your experiences – the good, the bad, and the “oops, I forgot to mute my mic” moments.
Let’s get sh*t done together!
P.S. If you’re reading this whilst procrastinating on that big project, consider this your sign to join us for some co-working magic. Your future self will thank you!
P.P.S. We are also running Morning Accountability Groups every weekday.
