Is a Hot Desk The Right Choice For You?
The modern workplace is constantly evolving, and one option which is gaining popularity is hot desking. But is this flexible approach to seating the right choice for every business?
What Exactly Is a Hot Desk?
Traditionally, employees have their own designated desk where they sit every time they’re in the office, but hot desking puts a spin on this. With hot desking, team members get to choose which desk they work at, and this alternates each time they’re in the office. This is usually done on a first-come, first-served basis, but some businesses may have a rota to follow.
Why Professionals Choose a Hot Desk
Hot desking can be used to help employees work to their full potential, and businesses can also save money.
Enhanced productivity: Employees can increase their focus by picking a space that suits their needs. For example, it can encourage collaboration because people can sit with those they need to in order to complete projects. Hot desking environments also have modern amenities and facilities which can be used by businesses to enhance workflow.
Cost-effective: It also helps companies save money because by minimising desks, they can reduce costs for various expenses like furniture, office supplies and utility bills.
The Perks of Going Flexible With a Hot Desk
Hot desking comes with a range of benefits.
Increased flexibility: Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of hot desking is the flexibility it brings along with it. You can sit by who you want to, making it easier to communicate important matters with colleagues. This also presents the opportunity to network and collaborate with individuals who you wouldn’t have otherwise. Because people can be flexible with how they want to work, it can increase their motivation levels to keep them focused.
Switch up of environment: Some people find it mentally refreshing to sit in different places. Being seated in the same spot every day can become boring and sometimes makes it difficult to think of creative ideas.
Challenges to Consider Before Booking a Hot Desk
Before implementing hot desking, discuss the pros and cons with your employees to come to a decision together. Here are some challenges to consider:
Lack of personalisation: If someone has their own fixed desk, they might personalise it with snacks, plants and photos. With hot desking, they can’t do this because they don’t use the same desk every day.
Can cause distractions: When people choose to sit next to colleagues they get on well with, conversations can shift from work to casual very quickly. Some people may also prefer to work in a quieter and private setting, but hot desking can create chatter and noise.
Some people like routine: Sitting in the same space can help create a sense of routine, but some people may feel this is disrupted if they sit somewhere different each time.
Could lead to disagreements: For example, someone might leave a desk untidy, which can frustrate the next person using it. Or an employee might have difficulty finding a space, or become annoyed with someone if they take a certain spot that they had in mind.
Who Hot Desks Work Best For
One of the main reasons companies decide to use this approach is if they have a hybrid or remote work model. If some or all of their employees work from home often, then hot desking is a way of maximising their space and reducing the number of desks needed. Some companies may have a mix of fixed desks and hot desks if they have some employees who are in more than others.
This system also works well for teams that frequently collaborate and communicate closely. People can move around and sit next to whoever they need to work with in order to help them complete tasks.
Explore Hot Desk Options With Spacepool Today
If you’re searching for a hot desking environment for you and your team, Spacepool can help you find what you’re looking for. On our website, you’ll see a whole market of trusted and verified office operators where you can explore and compare a range of professional spaces. Each one comes with different facilities, amenities, and layouts, and you can search for anything specific you have in mind by using our website’s filtering tool. Our technology is secure and fully mobile optimised, meaning it’s simple to search and hire workspaces on the go. It’s free to register with us today and search through different hot desking options.