For freelancers, the Covid-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down. Unfortunately, the lack of job security means that the self-employed are more likely to be hit hard. Reports suggest that a large portion of the 43 million unemployed are made up of freelancers.
So, to splash out on office space sounds like an indulgence. Sure, it’d be an excellent investment in an ideal world, but society is far from perfect right now. Although this is the case, there are powerful reasons for people with flexible jobs to rent an office outside of the home.
Here’s why they are still relevant during the health crisis.
Increased Productivity
It’s never been more important to work hard and impress clients. In a saturated marketplace with fewer opportunities, you don’t want to lose leads to your competitors. Working from home can cause strains due to the extra distractions. Your family is not only there, which means there is little space, but they expect you to be flexible with your workload. While this is advantageous for bosses, you can’t do it every day, or else your output will drop. In a professional workspace, you’re much more likely to be productive, meaning you’ll boost your earnings in an unpredictable period.
Lower Overheads
Money is always an obstacle during a pandemic. Therefore, it’s essential to cut costs wherever you can and limit your exposure. Spending more on office space may sound counterproductive, but it can be financially savvy since the energy industry is adapting. Household bills, for example, tend to rise, and there is no leeway. On the other hand, corporate energy bills are negotiable as you may be able to include them in your rental expenses. You can then use as much electricity as you want without worrying about the impacts on your bank balance.
Better Professionalism
If there is ever a reason to invest in office space, it’s when the whole world interacts via video-calling software. Previously, you might expect a handful of virtual calls, with the rest face-to-face. Now, 99% are over Skype or Microsoft Teams since it’s vital to limit contact with strangers. The temptation to be casual is strong – you are at home – yet it’s not professional. Everything from your background to attire and body language should exude confidence and expertise. If this doesn’t happen in your home office as you’re used to the surroundings, you require a different environment.
Work/Life Balance
Striking a balance between life and work is healthy, regardless of the situation. During a health crisis, when you’re locked in pretty much twenty-four-hours per day, it’s the difference between going crazy and maintaining your sanity! Always being in the same place is a grind, and it’s easy for your mental and physical health to suffer from the experience. Thankfully, office space presents a secure atmosphere that offers a change of pace to the status quo. Just by getting out a couple of times a week, you’ll find that your motivation levels are higher, and your relationships are less strained.
Whether it’s a strange time or not, rented office space provides freelancers with plenty of opportunities.
