The idea of not working from home may seem an unappealing prospect. When the comforts of working from your own house include a virtually non-existent dress code and an effortless commute why would you seek an alternative?
However, there are a few benefits of not working from home that might have you reconsidering your current arrangements. Read on to learn more about some of the advantages of keeping your work and home spaces separate and be inspired to find an alternative.
What are the Disadvantages of Working from Home?
Working remotely was on an upward trend even before the pandemic made it essential. Now, with working from home especially popular amongst younger generations in the workforce, it seems clearer than ever that the future of work involves some degree of office flexibility. However, there are some benefits to mixing up the routine and not working from home every day.
Here are some of the disadvantages of working from home:
Isolation - One disadvantage of working from home is that you aren’t spending time with your team. Not only can this build feelings of loneliness and isolation but it can also inhibit collaboration. Sharing a space with other workers creates a sense of camaraderie and can cheer spirits.
Distractions - Another disadvantage of working from home is that you can be surrounded by distractions. From housemates or pets to chores and buzzing phones. These distractions can slowly chip away at your productivity.
Potential Burnout - When you work from home, it is easy for the line between work-life and home-life to become blurred. Even if you are not at your desk, you may find it hard to leave your work frame of mind without a change of physical space. Not being able to switch off can increase stress and potentially lead to burnout.
Cost - When working from home you may see an increase in your bills. From having the heating on for longer to boiling the kettle more often, the price of working from home can add up.
Productivity - You may think you work better on your own. However, social psychologists have shown that we work better when we are in the presence of other people. Even if we are not being directly observed, sharing a space with others seems to make workers more motivated and more likely to persevere when faced with problems.
5 Alternatives to Working From Home
Remote working doesn’t necessarily mean working from home. Explore some of the other options you could try and mix up your routine for a more productive and inspiring work day. We recommend the below alternatives to working from home:
1. Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces are a fantastic alternative to working from home. Sharing a coworking space with other driven workers not only creates a sense of community but it can also increase your focus. What’s more, most coworking spaces are fitted with helpful office amenities such as printers and meeting rooms. When you book a coworking space with us you receive exclusive access to 11 different refined and elegant work environments in some of central London’s most sought after locations.
2. Coffee Shops
Coffee shops are a popular alternative to working from home. You can get your caffeine fix and start working surrounded by the white noise of general cafe hubbub. One of the limitations to working from a public space may be that access is beyond your control.
4. Local Library
If you enjoy a silent work space, your local library can be a good alternative to working from home. They are usually free and have reliable wifi. What’s more, you can save money on bills at home by working from your local library. The only limitation is that this isn’t a place where you can take calls or attend virtual meetings.
5. All of the Above
If all of the above options sound like appealing alternatives to working from home, then you don’t have to commit to just one. You can be flexible with where you work whilst having a permanent office address with our virtual office membership. This means that whilst you move around, all business phone calls, mail and more can be directed to one address which we can manage for you. So whilst we take care of all the office distractions, you can stay focused on your tasks for the day. Virtual office membership also grants you preferential rates to our exceptional meeting rooms giving you a professional space to host clients or call team meetings as and when you need to.
The Benefits of Working from Argyll’s Office Spaces
When looking for alternatives to working from home there are a few important things to consider:
Ensure you have a reliable and secure internet connection - In all our properties you can trust that you are connected to a safe network. We also have an IT team on hand to help with technical issues.
Ensure you have comfortable seating - sitting in front of the laptop every day can take a strain on your body. That is why it is important to have a proper desk and seating that supports your back. We have top quality furnishings as well as a range of desk options so you can work comfortably and maintain your posture.
Ensure your work matches the space - If you have a team meeting, huddling around a small coffee shop table might not work. Likewise, taking a video call in the library would be frowned upon. We have designed our flexible office spaces to meet all the needs of modern work. From smart offices with the latest collaborative technology to inspiring office spaces for impressing prospective customers. We have all elements of your job covered.
About Argyll Serviced Offices
We offer the most exclusive office environments at the most prestigious addresses in London.
Driven by a desire to provide businesses with a sophisticated place to work, meet and host events, we design every element of our beautiful properties to create a lasting impression – on our customers, and their guests.
Our unique combination of distinctive buildings, contemporary yet classic interiors, unrivalled attention-to-detail and consistently exceptional service, defines our signature Argyll experience.
We pride ourselves on never imposing our brand on our customers. Instead, our unbranded spaces provide a stylish backdrop, while our empowered team delivers a personal service to support our customers’ success.