10 desk essentials that make our workday better

It is no longer necessary to be in your cubicle to complete a project report or meet an important client in the conference room. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly changed the way freelancers, startups, and organizations work. Flexible working options have accelerated immensely in the last few months.

With remote teams collaborating from different corners of the world, companies are now open to flexible or remote working policies. This requires line managers or department heads to devise remote working strategies. As different countries now prepare to return to their normal routine, hybrid models for workplaces are emerging as the preferred choice for several ventures.

Apart from using project management software tools that allow large teams to know how roles, duties, and tasks are distributed among the workforce, hybrid workspaces can also elevate the productivity of the team. Usually, hybrid workspaces can be of two variants. First, ones that can be subscribed on a rental basis, or second, ones that provide workstations in different parts. As per the structure of the team, large companies can opt for any hybrid model and work efficiently as a remote team.

Whether it is a team of two or two thousand, co-working spaces offer the best platform to have a productive day with your team. Listed below are the key highlights on how flexible workspaces allow the best ways to implement remote work strategies for large teams

Better scope for flex and work

Employee productivity is a prerequisite for good work and has an immediate effect on the goal achievement of an enterprise. Co-working spaces allow professionals to get a better chance at networking with each other. The collaborative atmosphere amplifies the employee convenience by encouraging more space for meetings, webinars, and brainstorming sessions in an open space. The flexible layout of the rooms and the entire campus encourages employees to make the best use of the space available to them to feel productive and work without feeling pressured to sit inside a cubicle and complete their work.

Open space to collaborate

The relaxed areas and calmness of the co-working spaces allow professionals to have seamless video conferences, work in silence, and not to have to conform to a strict and particular style of working. Everyone has the liberty to work at their own pace and style, thus making it easier for both the employer and employee to create effective work and reach goals faster.

A decentralized system of operation in large companies has evolved with the increasing popularity of the work-from-home culture. Many employees are now willing to work remotely or in flexible workspaces that are perfect for them. It allows them to adjust to the routine of working outside their workspaces but simultaneously enjoy flexibility on their terms.

Cost-effective solution for the employer

It is noteworthy that a lot of energy is consumed when organizations use dedicated office spaces. Electricity, water, and packaged food are utilized, which may not be sustained effectively. In the last few years, research has also confirmed that offices have been a primary source of excessive resource utilization.

The three main pillars of a hybrid workspace are functionality, a peaceful ambience, and flexibility. All these are possible in co-working spaces as experts in ergonomics, design, and architecture are responsible for creating spaces that boost productivity and promote a healthy mindset.

It is known that until last year, large corporates would emphasize formal settings that were not necessarily mindful of the need for furniture that promotes a good posture. As offices resume working flexibility, employees will be more eager to work in a setting that facilitates a seamless transition from the casual setting of a home workstation to a collaborative co-working space.

Promotes employee convenience

As several large companies are now willing to operate remotely, most teams can collaborate with each as per their convenience. This allows the employees the ease to work in a setting where they feel most productive and content. A hybrid workplace amplifies the convenience of working remotely by enabling the employees to make the best use of the space and amenities provided. They can make changes, sit where they wish to, and produce work that is accurate and matches the quality standards of the organization.

Since Awfis workspaces are located all across India, remote teams can easily decide on a particular location and meet each other in their preferred branch. Important review meetings or other discussions can be held at any of the meeting rooms designed specifically for teams of all sizes. The easy booking system makes it even more seamless to book the premises during a preferred time slot.

A safer setting for teams

The need to maintain social distance is of utmost importance in current times. Therefore, unlike the pre-pandemic times, it is hard to work in closed working spaces alongside many team members. Co-working spaces allow large teams to meet and collaborate whenever necessary.

The use of a flexible workstation permits teams to gather without invading anyone’s personal space. Awfis provides such a tech-enabled workplace that allows teams to work with each other while maintaining social distance. Moreover, to ensure that there is no risk of infection, the premises are constantly sanitized and equipped with quality hand sanitizers.

Conclusion

By opting for shared office space, large teams get full access to return to work with the best resources. Such workspaces also provide an avenue for line managers to meet new team members, brief the team regarding any new plans or objectives, and schedule face-to-face meetings for review sessions. As the idea of flex working opportunities appears to have taken over the traditional mode of office culture, co-working spaces will be the hubs of new ideas and innovation.

Entrepreneurs, however ambitious and goal driven maybe, have a deep and peace-loving side to them. You too possess an intuition and need to clear your mind every now and then. Your contribution matters and is of great significance, a simple fact we all need to remember. We all make mistakes but clearing one’s mind after, and capitalizing on it as a growth lesson is what differentiates successful entrepreneurs for the herd.

Here are 5 spiritual destinations to enlighten the entrepreneur in you!

1. Puducherry – Auroville:

A universal experimental township in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. In the mid 1960’s the concept was put before the Government of India and UNESCO, in 1966 they passed a unanimous resolution commending it as a project of importance to the future of humanity, thereby giving their full encouragement. What can you do there? Visit & stay, volunteer & intern, study, join & enjoy workshops & therapies with the option of donating, shopping and a lot more. An ideal destination to meet like-minded people, with the intention of growing and developing ourselves.

2. Gandhinagar – Akshardham:

Located in the capital of Gujarat, it’s a large Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan and inspired by Pramukh Swami and his life and teachings. Akshardham is a place of education, entertainment and enlightenment, a miracle worked by the sacrifice of thousands of volunteers. The complex has 5 exhibition halls with audio-visual presentation and life-sized dioramas to explore various themes in Hinduism, one of the most powerful experiences of Indian culture we can experience in current times. They also have a water show and the opportunity to explore a course in Social Harmony too! Visiting this place will mentally uplift you in a manner, no other place may.

3. Himachal Pradesh – Hills:

In order to free yourself from your thoughts, all you need is mountain-hills-snow and fresh air which the Himachal hills can provide, naturally. It’s not an escape route but more of a hibernation zone you can explore to cut off from this fast pace world. We aren’t recommending this location because Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs were here, but the hills & the surrounding atmosphere helps a person to rejuvenate and apply new thoughts to live life. A spiritual destination, especially for the adventure lovers.

4. Dharamshala – Kangra Valley:

The Dalai Lama’s residence and the Central Tibetan Administration is in Dharamshala city, it is one of the hundred Indian cities to be developed as a smart city under PM Narendra Modi’s flagship “Smart Cities Mission”. Apart from the obvious, one of the main attractions of Dharamshala is Triund hill, a one day trek at the upper reaches of McLeodGanj.
So as an entrepreneur, you may also be fascinated by the political relationship between India-China and Tibet. This place is one of the most recommended destinations for the ones who are in search of peace, harmony, snow-capped mountains, along with adventurous activities! We recommend a movie, “Seven years in Tibet” which will thoroughly inspire you to go to this location. Don’t think twice, visit Dharamshala.

5. Amritsar – Punjab:

It’s the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and has gained its name, “Amritsar – Holy Pool of Nectar” from the body of water around the Golden Temple. The exquisite Golden Temple and the vibe around the location are unmatched and attract pilgrims from all over the world who come there to pay their respects and do voluntary service. The temple complex is open for almost 20 hours every day, with free food served to all, irrespective of their religion, cast or creed. The corporate jungle with its fearsome competitive environment, sometime takes over the human side of us. Food & local beverages, farms, Royal Enfield rides, music, volunteering work, Indo-Pak relation and Pehlwani & Kusti – this place is all encompassing.

The more we see the more we realize that life is meant to be lived happily. There is no cultural or corporate barrier to happiness. So take some time off, pack your bags and visit one of these places, immediately. Your soul is trying to speak to you. We say, high time you travel and listen to that voice.

If you are finding a healthy workplace, look for business centre in Bengaluru or co-working space in Lower Parel, Mumbai.

Have you ever walked out of a movie where you felt inspired by the story and made a decision to start something new? Or have you thought of movies as a window of expression for great change?

Here are some movies that you should watch if you are thinking of starting your own business or running a cool start up. These movies will leave you with a vital lesson and help sustain a motivated spirit towards your goals.

1. The Social Network:

It’s not a surprise that The Social Network was a huge hit when it released in 2010. Everyone wanted to know the transition of Mark Zuckerberg from being a Harvard student to a CEO of the most popular social media network.

Why would you want to watch it? The movie is entertaining yet an instructive lesson for entrepreneurs on how a startup should exhibit qualities such as flexibility and resilience to be successful in the market.

2. Pirates of Silicon Valley:

Made for a TV movie, Pirates of Silicon Valley  covered the success of Bill Gates and Steve Jobs (Microsoft and Apple Inc.) The movie provides an interesting insight into the lives of these iconic tech heroes and their rivilary in the earlier days.

Why should you watch it? We always need inspiration from the best and who is better than these iconic pirates of Silicon Valley who have mesmerised the world with their brilliant ideas. It motivates you to follow your dream and go through it no matter what hurdle comes your way.

3. Office Space:

Raise your hand if you are planning on quitting your job to start your own business! This comedy movie focuses on Peter Gibbins who hates sitting in a cubicle and taking orders from his superior at the workplace.

Why is it a must see movie? You will see the signs of your inner entrepreneur and it will drive you to start working towards your dream venture.

4. Money Ball:

The movie focuses on a Billy Bean, Okalan A’s manager who transforms the weaknesses of the underdog team into strengths. He manages making a team out of meagre resources and a unique strategy. The team wins 20 consecutive baseball games breaking the American League record.

Why it’s a movie to learn from? It inspires an entrepreneur to look at situations positively and turn lemons into lemonade. You will understand the importance of innovation when it comes to standing out from competitors.

5. Jerry Mcguire:

What does it take to stay on top of your game? Based on a true story, Jerry McGuire faces rejection and people turning their backs to him while he takes a leap of faith and quits his full time job. He identifies the best road to follow and ends up being successful in both professional and personal life!

Why watch it?  It’s important to realize that it takes time for everything to fall into place. Time and effort is what takes you to your dream destination. Simply know that you will succeed and nothing can stop you!

6. Wallstreet:

This movie focuses on the dark side of insider trading . It follows Bud Fox, an ambitious stockbroker who will do anything to succeed and has a motto of ‘Greed Is Good’. But you can see the turn of events when he is asked to contribute to something illegal and morally reprehensible.

Why do you need to watch it?  It’s a lesson that every entrepreneur should learn, being an entrepreneur isn’t about being rich or famous it’s about pursuing your passion. This movie will teach you not to sell yourself for the sake of money.

Which of these movies help you draw inspiration? Share your thoughts and also help us with movies not on this list that every entrepreneur should watch?

Interested in creating something huge?  Join our business centre in Bengaluru, or our co-working space in Delhi.