In the past decade, "hot desking" has sizzled its way into the business world and has spread like wildfire among companies and coworking spaces. Ever wondered what this blazing buzzword is all about and why it's burning so bright? Brace yourself as we dissect this scorching phenomenon and help you decide if it's time you dipped your toes into the world of sweltering seats and sizzling work styles.
What is hot desking?
Hot desking is a flexible way of working that involves using shared or open workspaces rather than assigned desks or offices. This type of arrangement can be beneficial for businesses as it can help to reduce costs and increase flexibility. Additionally, hot desking can promote collaboration and creativity as employees are more likely to interact with each other when they are not confined to a single desk.
What is the difference between "office hoteling" and "hot desking"?
However, in the thrilling game of office musical chairs, hoteling makes you plan and reserve your spot in advance, while hot desking lets you saunter into any seat like a spontaneous VIP. Adventure awaits in the world of office seating!
How does hot desking work?
Have you ever wanted to feel like a nomad within your own office? Say hello to "hot desking" and an its sometimes mentioned cousin, "office hoteling." Both of these trends give the stiff, old seating chart a sassy makeover by introducing flexibility into the mix.
Under a hot desking arrangement, employees do not have assigned desks or offices. Instead, they are free to choose any available workspace when they arrive at the office. This type of arrangement can be beneficial for businesses as it can help to reduce costs and increase flexibility. Additionally, hot desking can promote collaboration and creativity as employees are more likely to interact with each other when they are not confined to a single desk.
How can businesses make hot desking work for them?
There are several things that businesses can do to make hot desking work for them, including creating dedicated hot desking areas, providing storage solutions, and offering flexible hours. Additionally, businesses should provide training on how to use the shared workspace effectively and should encourage employees to take breaks throughout the day
What are the benefits of hot desking?
1. Increased collaboration and agile work styles
Hot desking can help to increase collaboration among employees.
When employees are able to choose where they sit, they are more likely to sit near colleagues who they need to collaborate with. This proximity can help to increase the amount of collaboration that takes place among employees. Additionally, hot desking can also help to reduce the amount of time that employees spend in meetings, as they can simply meet at their desks instead of having to book a meeting room.
2. Financially efficient office strategy
Hot desking can help to reduce real estate costs.
If an organization does not require all of its employees to be in the office at the same time, it can reduce the amount of office space that it needs. This can lead to significant savings on real estate costs. Additionally, hot desking can also help to reduce the need for office furniture, as each employee would only need one desk instead of multiple desks.
3. More productive teams
Hot desking can help to improve employee productivity.
Employees who have the ability to hot desk are often more productive than those who do not. This is because hot desking allows employees to design their own workstations, which can help them to be more comfortable and efficient in their work. Additionally, hot desking can also help to reduce distractions, as employees are less likely to be interrupted by colleagues when they are working at their own desks.
What are the challenges of hot desking?
One of the challenges of hot desking is that it can be difficult to find an available workspace, especially during peak times. Additionally, hot desking can lead to increased noise levels as employees move around the office and interact with each other. Finally, some employees may prefer to have their own assigned workspace and may feel less productive in a shared or open environment.
1. Limited Storage
One of the challenges of hot desking is that there is limited storage for personal belongings. This can be a problem for employees who need to keep items such as laptops, files, or other materials at their desk. At Phase Two we address this with the option to rent lockers of all sizes for storage of items.
2. Lack of Privacy
Another challenge of hot desking is that it can lack privacy. Employees may feel like they are constantly being watched or monitored when they are working in a shared space. At Phase Two we have break out rooms and phone booths that give everyone privacy for calls or focused work. However, there is a limited of these spaces so they are first come, first serve.
3. Difficulty Focusing
Hot desking can also make it difficult for employees to focus on their work. With so many people working in close proximity to each other, there can be a lot of noise and distractions. We pride ourselves at Phase Two however on having a respectful and fairly quiet space.
So how will I know if hot desking is a good idea for me?
Embarking on a hot desking adventure can be intimidating for the faint-hearted. But it has many great benefits and works well with hybrid work strategies, and is a path worth walking down. So, let the thrilling quest begin by pondering over the wild costs and unexpected treasures of hot desking, as well as the deepest desires of your office tribe and the mighty ambitions of your business realm. Get ready to navigate the labyrinth of hot desking methods and, with the wisdom of a true professional, uncover the Holy Grail of workplace solutions custom-tuned to your needs. Onward!
Come join us today in Culver City, California to take a free tour of Phase Two!
