If you're debating between working from home or from a coworking space, have you weighed the pros and cons from each? Working from home is when you work from your place of residence, rather than from an office. Most companies that allow at home working have policies to allow their employees to work from home. Working from a coworking space is when you work with different companies but share an office space, often to lower the cost and help the company save money. But what are the pros and cons of each and which is better for you? Let's discuss each individually!

Pros of working from home:

1. Flexibility

Even though you still have to meet deadlines, you would be able to perform your task on your own time. For example, if you had a doctor’s appointment, you would be able to go and work on your task after you get back from your appointment. 

2. No commute 

With no commute, you are able to save money on gas and sometimes even money on a professional wardrobe if you aren’t seeing clients face-to-face. 

3. More family time

While working at home, you will be able to be around your family more. Including getting rid of a commute time, you will add more time to spend with your spouse and kids. 

Cons of working from home:

1. No separation between work and leisure

Often, those who work from home lose track of time since they do not have a definite start or stop time for work. Because of this, they find it difficult to have a post-work mode.

2. Less coworker contact

One downside of working at home is that you get less face-to-face interactions with people that you work in the company. If you are someone who enjoys socializing with your team personnel, you might become miserable and feel isolated at home. 

3. Electronic communication 

It is easy to take things out of context when you are communicating through a digital communication system. There is a lack of facial expression and body language that help maintain positive communication. 

Pros of working in a coworking space:

1. Cost

First and foremost, the cost of having a coworking space is much lower than that of a private office. The lower price points come from sharing a space with other companies. 

2. Socialization

Something that remote workers miss the most about working in an office is socialization. Going to lunch with your coworkers and casual chit-chat with like-minded professionals is something that people enjoy when working in a coworking space. 

3. Visualization

Coworking spaces are appealing, designed for growing your company. It also helps give your clients reassurance to see you working in a professional environment. 

Cons of working in a coworking space:

1. Maintaining focus

Like any other job, there may be times where you find it difficult to maintain your focus. There is a chance for someone to be an occasional noise maker, however, most spaces have rules in place to prevent too many distractions. 

2. Competition for seating 

If you are coworking in a space that has many of its available spots full, you may not get the best view, closest to a window or exactly where you would like. 

3. Prohibitive

With basic packages in a coworking space, you normally receive free Wi-Fi, a desk, a chair and communal coffee area. You may have to pay more for better amenities. 

After thinking about each pro and con, if you have decided that coworking is best for you, contact Daphne CoWork at (251) 517-9425. We love helping you grow your business in a professional environment.