Top 4 Tips for Introverts Working In Coworking Spaces

Introverts are well-known to be quiet, shy, and enjoy being alone. However, in today’s changing work environments, coworking is hardly unavoidable. As the world becomes “smaller” through connectivity, introverts need to learn to connect with other people professionally for greater synergy in the workplace.

Experts find that employees are more motivated and productive when they work together. This leads to better experiences and increases satisfaction ratings among employees. 

In 2020, we saw an increase of 20,000 coworking spaces worldwide, which is projected to double by 2024. Experts agree that this is growing happier work environments, resulting in better employee retention. 

Here are the top four tips for introverts working in coworking spaces:

Has your coworking space provided you with a space that you can use during times of distraction? Or does your office have distractions such as music and unnecessary noise (voices, phones ringing, and such)?

To make use of your space, you need to be conscious of distractions and interruptions. Make use of the private offices, conference rooms, and other spaces that you can use to take a break from interactions when needed. 

Moreover, you need to come to work prepared. You can keep a list of things you need to do in the office on your desk or your device to help you focus during the day. As a rule of thumb, schedule all collaborative tasks early in the day when people are most productive and engaged.

A common issue that introverts have with other people is that they get distracted easily. And distractions can be more frequent when working in an open office.

Then, what can you do to avoid such distractions? Don’t get a seat in the central area. Instead, choose a quiet location. If you want to be in the central area, you can use a tool such as headphones or something that can make white noise to block out distractions.

If you feel overwhelmed, which can happen if you’re not used to being around people all the time, step out of the coworking space for a break. You can have your lunch or coffee break somewhere for much-needed alone time. Through this, you can learn to balance thriving in a coworking environment without compromising what makes you happy as well. 

You can also take pockets of time to work independently. For example, you can choose to come an hour earlier than everyone so you can check your emails or do a task where you’ll do best with peace and quiet. You can also take an hour of solo work in a nearby conference room, an unused corner, an office balcony, or even the office pantry during off-hours. 

Coworking spaces are designed to help people feel more connected. However, since you’re an introvert, you probably don’t want to be around people for too long. 

To avoid this, you can find interactions that benefit you or are meaningful to you. You can be cordial with everybody without having to strike a conversation with everyone all the time. This is not conducive to anyone who wants to get work done, whether they are an introvert or an extrovert. 

You can limit your interactions by engaging before or after a meeting or any collaborative task. You can also engage with people during coffee breaks or lunch breaks, so you won’t feel guilty when you have to sit by a corner alone to finish scheduled tasks for the day. 

Remember that you don’t have to force yourself into these interactions. Engage where you are most comfortable. You might be surprised to find meaningful relationships just by stepping out of your comfort zone. 

Conclusion

People, including yourself, might assume introverts can’t survive or thrive in coworking spaces. This is not true. Step out of your comfort and discover the joys of coworking spaces. These spaces provide excellent opportunities for introverts to build their connections with others. Introverts can use their innate traits to their advantage to work in harmony with other workers.

CoCoTiv fosters an environment where all of our members may work and develop. Our membership packages cover the whole range of the best coworking amenities, with possibilities for all types of businesses. If you need anything to help your company flourish, let us know, and we’ll make it happen. Schedule a tour at our Charlotte branches now!