6 Ways Coworking Can Help Improve Diversity in the Workplace

When we think of diversity in the workplace, usually images of different ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations come to mind. While those are all valid measures of diversity and important to consider, we often overlook other aspects that can also have a positive impact on a company’s culture. But what exactly does Coworking do for Diversity? A recent study by Gallup found that employees who frequently socialize at work are more than twice as likely to report high levels of satisfaction. Additionally, the frequency of social interactions has a direct correlation with employee retention. With these stats in mind, let’s take a look at how coworking can help improve diversity in the workplace and contribute to a more inclusive work environment.

Increased Communication and Collaboration

One of the most important aspects of diversity in the workplace is communication and collaboration. In an ideal situation, coworkers would be able to openly communicate and collaborate with one another regardless of their background or experience. Unfortunately, many companies have strict hierarchies that prevent this. Coworking spaces, on the other hand, are designed to encourage this type of communication and collaboration. Desk and conference room rental agreements often come with stipulations that promote open dialogue and healthy discussion. This makes it easy for coworkers from all walks of life to come together and share their skills. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Texas at Austin found that people are more likely to collaborate if they are seated next to someone they don’t know. This is because coworkers who don’t know each other often feel uninhibited to speak their minds.

Coworking Culture Is Based on Inclusion and Respect

When it comes to diversity, one of the best ways to promote it is by being inclusive and respectful of all people. When a coworking space has a strict code of conduct, it sends a very clear message that it doesn’t tolerate discrimination. Many coworking spaces have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to discrimination and harassment. This helps create a culture that includes people from all walks of life. Additionally, many coworking spaces have initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. This can include sponsoring events, giving back to the community, or even providing resources for employees who want to learn more about certain cultures. Whatever action a coworking space takes, it can help promote a culture that is open and respectful of different people. This can have a positive impact on the entire company.

Coworkers Come From Diverse Backgrounds

Another important aspect of diversity is the number of people who come from diverse backgrounds. Most coworking spaces have members from all different backgrounds and ethnicities. This helps promote a more inclusive culture within the workspace. Additionally, this has a positive impact on the organization as a whole. It allows employees to feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. And it allows coworkers to share their unique skills and experiences with one another. This can make the work environment more enjoyable for everyone and help the company achieve more diverse goals.

Coworking Encourages Non-traditional Employment Practices

Another way that coworking can help improve diversity in the workplace is by encouraging non-traditional employment practices. Usually, diversity is achieved by hiring people from a variety of different backgrounds. But this can be difficult for companies that have limited budgets and are looking to expand rapidly. One way to combat this is by encouraging non-traditional employment practices. This includes things like telecommuting, flexible work schedules, and freelance work. These practices can help companies hire from a wider variety of backgrounds. And they can help promote diversity in the workplace. Additionally, they can help companies expand while still adhering to strict budgets. This can be extremely helpful in the modern business landscape.

Coworking Provides Access to Resources for Diversification

Another way that coworkers can help diversify a business is by providing access to new resources. This can include things like hiring people from different ethnicities or religious backgrounds. It can also include hiring people who don’t fit the traditional mold of the 9-5 employee. This includes people who work remotely or have non-traditional work schedules. In fact, a study conducted by Stanford found that people are more productive when they work remotely. This is because they are able to work at their own pace and aren’t bound by traditional office hours. This has a positive impact on people who need a flexible schedule. And it can help provide a valuable skill to the business.

CoWorking Helps Employees Feel Included and Employed

Last but not least, coworking can help improve diversity by feeling included and employed in the workplace. When people feel included they are more likely to stay with the company. And they are more likely to be productive. This can make the company more profitable in the long run. Additionally, when people feel included they are less likely to leave their job. People are much more likely to quit their job when they feel frustrated or bored with the work they are doing. This can be detrimental to the organization as a whole. When coworkers feel included, though, they are much more likely to stay with the company and work harder. This makes the company more profitable and more likely to reach its goals.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the ways that coworking can help improve diversity in the workplace. When coworkers feel included, have access to new resources, and can collaborate with people from different backgrounds, they are more likely to be productive and satisfied with their work. This can have a positive impact on the entire organization, maximize its profitability, and help it reach its goals.

If your company is interested in improving diversity and inclusivity, consider booking a workday or dedicated space at a coworking facility. Not only will this give your team a chance to collaborate with people from other departments, but it can also give employees the opportunity to meet people they might not otherwise interact with. This can help break down social barriers and make your organization a more inclusive place to work.