Coworking spaces are becoming more and more popular. And it isn't just because they provide internet access and a desk. They hold events that encourage networking across diverse industries and perspectives. By holding events and creating a diverse and inclusive environment, coworking spaces can help promote social change, making them a great place to drive home inclusivity.
This article will discuss how coworking space events can help drive home inclusivity and why businesses must support these initiatives.
What are Coworking Spaces?
A coworking space is a shared office environment that offers members the benefits of a traditional office without the cost or commitment. Coworking spaces are usually membership-based, and they offer amenities like conference rooms, private offices, kitchen facilities, physical therapy spaces, and more.
Many coworking spaces also host events. These events can be anything from educational workshops to networking mixers. And these events are often open to the public.
Why are Diversity and Inclusion Important?
Diversity and inclusion are important for many reasons. First, they help create a more well-rounded workplace. A diverse workforce brings different perspectives and ideas to the table, which can lead to better decision-making.
Inclusivity is also important because it helps create a sense of belonging. When people feel like they belong, they are more likely to be engaged in their work and committed to their organization.
Why Hold Coworking Space Events?
There are many reasons why businesses should hold coworking space events. For one, it can help promote inclusivity and diversity within the workplace.
Hosting events are a great way for new members to meet the community, and social events or catered lunches can really drive a sense of family within the space.
Networking events can also be a great way to build community. When people come together to learn, network, and have fun, they often form strong connections. These connections can lead to future business opportunities.
Tips for Choosing Inclusive Coworking Spaces
It is important to choose inclusive coworking spaces. When scoping out coworking facilities, it's essential to ask the office management, "what makes this a diverse coworking space?"
Asking specific open-ended questions is a great way to get people talking about what you are interested in learning about. Listen carefully, and you'll be able to gauge how much of a priority building inclusive coworking spaces is for the facility.
It would help if you asked about the different types of businesses that use that coworking space and how many are signed up. Knowing how diverse the companies are will give you an idea of how diverse the people are. It’s also important to ask about shared spaces. In a coworking space, there are many offices for rent that people use for their business, but there are also spaces for people to work openly next to others. Making sure your coworking space offers such spaces will let you know that they value open communication and interaction between people and don’t shy away from it.
Here are some other tips:
Look for coworking spaces that have a diverse membership.
Ask what the policies and procedures are that promote inclusive coworking spaces.
Ensure that there is building security to provide safety to all remote workers during hours of operation.
The culture of the space should be collaborative so that it promotes inclusive and diverse coworking spaces and encourages community-building among professionals.
Overall happiness will increase when professionals work in a diverse and inclusive office environment. They will naturally feel more supported, combatting feelings of loneliness and leading to better mental health outcomes.
At the end of the day, any culture that is diverse and inclusive supports overall happiness. Coworking spaces can lead to increased productivity as a result.
Tips for Planning the Best Coworking Space Events
You want to be sure that you're thoughtful if you're planning an inclusive coworking space event for your business or employees. Consider bringing in a diverse panel of employees prior to planning the event. Ask them what they would like to see out of an event like this.
Present them with general ideas of the learning and networking opportunities you're looking to provide, ask them what would make this beneficial to each of them, and then work to consider each perspective when building the event.
Here are some other tips to help make it a success:
Make sure the event is relevant to all employee members that are attending.
Choose a topic that is interesting and engaging.
Select speakers or panelists who are knowledgeable about the topic.
Choose a diverse panel with diverse perspectives to promote inclusivity.
Plan plenty of activities for attendees to participate in.
Promote the event widely on social media and elsewhere.
Ready to Join a Coworking Space?
As you can see, coworking spaces are the perfect alternative for any professional that wants to prioritize inclusivity. Do you want to learn more about joining a coworking space?
If so, contact us today to receive more helpful information about our diverse coworking spaces.