The Work-life Insight

The Four Essential Traits of Passionate Leadership

At some point in your career, you most likely worked for a boss who was not inspiring. Yes, they are a boss, but not a leader, and neglected to provide room for excellence in your work. You weren’t able to operate at your full potential due to the lack of support or even the encouragement to do so.

Bad bosses encourage business leaders to learn from their mistakes. Leadership is about prioritizing your team’s success and pushing everyone to their highest potential. Good bosses motivate and encourage each employee to perform well in hopes of advancing to the next level.

This begins with passionate leadership. These are four essential traits to be a passionate leader. These traits will enable you to inspire your team to achieve greatness.

1. Transparency and Connecting with the Team
Leadership is more than just telling people what to do. Effective leadership culminates from connecting with your team, the people that you are responsible for.

Many organizations aren’t doing a great job of connecting with their team. They overlook the importance of creating good company culture. Transparency is the first step in connecting. To improve involves getting down to the root and analyzing your own character. Are you truly able to be humble and honest?

Irrespective of how good you are, there is always room for improvement. Transparency begins by being genuine and upfront. Be open and share some insights about the person you are. Then you can encourage your direct reports to follow suit enabling them to open up. It is imperative that your subordinates believe that they are interacting with the real you. Leading by example necessitates sincerity coupled with openness, humility and integrity.

Having accomplished the above it is time to use your skill of tactical empathy. Your team relates to you better as they believe that you are able to view their perspective on things. Tactical empathy is a crucial core talent for all leaders to be able to relate with their team. Chris Voss, American businessman and author, defines tactical empathy as the deliberate influencing of your negotiating counterpart’s emotions for the ultimate purpose of building trust-based influence and securing deals. This ideal will help shape you into a passionate leader, making the distinction clear to all.

It’s a waste to have a team but rule with an iron first. Micromanaging and leaving your employees with unifiling tasks is futile. You know they are capable of great and ambitious work because you hired them after seeing everything they bring to the table. Help yourself and empower your staff, which will spread the workload and allow you comfort that tasks are being completed.

Transparency, trust, and honesty, need to be present in the office every day. Practicing tactical empathy may require a conscious effort, but it will improve interpersonal relationships within the workplace.

2. Inspire Your Team to get Things Going
A leadership nightmare is hiring talented people and then making them feel incapable of doing their job. The function of a leader is to bring in the best candidates into the organization, train them, and then let them prove themselves.

Be open to feedback from your team on a regular basis. While every suggestion or idea doesn’t need to be taken into action, getting your team’s input shows you value their opinion. It says that you want to know their take on projects and policies. Not involving your team alienates them; it says you don’t trust them, and this can be offensive. It is the easiest way to turn a good employee to an unmotivated one.

It is important to encourage your team to feel a part of decision making. No one wants to feel powerless at work. This is especially essential in a crisis situation. The team should be aware that there is a problem when in the midst of it, not after it is over. Someone on your team may have an idea which could positively influence the outcome. Giving them the opportunity to suggest this useful action avoids the stress of problem solving alone. Not engaging your team when during work difficulties could damage your relationship with them. It indicates a clear message of not trusting your team to help you through. They need to know they’re valued at your company, and these simple gestures will do exactly that.

3. Practice Self-Awareness
Avoidant behavior is not conducive to good leadership. Avoiding taking action or acting on a certain matter can cause great damage to the business. It puts a stop to the progress of the organization’s success.

Why do some leaders avoid taking action? Being a passionate leader requires taking action. There are no moments to hesitate when making decisions in critical situations. They don’t want to take the responsibility upon themselves.

The fear is a result of a lack of self-awareness and self-confidence. It stems from a lack of faith and belief that they are able to overcome the situation, but it takes some action on their part.

How does one deal with this problem? Honing the skills of self-awareness comes from a constant quest to be curious and learn. The ABCs of life abbreviate Always Be Curious. As a leader your actions and decisions are influencing those who work under you. Analyse each decision and its consequences before putting it to action. How do they handle conflict? It’s human nature to react, but leaders must respond diplomatically. Be aware of your involvement in any conflict and come to a resolve with your team efficiently. This will leave people comfortable reaching out during issues.

Leadership involves high-pressure moments. Don’t let intense moments affect you, but set the example for your team. It all begins with self-awareness.

4. Accepting Power and Authority
A leader is ambitious by nature but this doesn’t have to be bad. Every leader has their organization’s best interest at heart, as the success of the company is a reflection on their role as boss. Projecting others in a bad light to gain favour finds a way of coming out. It is best to avoid negative antics that only breed room for a hostile work environment.

Misusing your power will affect your judgement and hamper your ability to make sound decisions. A narcissistic leader cannot see past their own thoughts and ideas, typically working solo. This will cause them to lose their team’s support. Acknowledging your team and their participation is a better path to follow.

Triumphing with your team backing you is the best way to prove your power and authority as a leader. Every leader has power and authority, but flaunting it in a negative light is not going to help. Try and engage your team and listen to them. A humble standpoint will gain you more authority and put you in a position of power more than trying to assert yourself with an attitude of arrogance.

Your attitude towards your team can gain you tremendous dividends in the long run. So make your team a part of your success. Power and authority are earned and your direct reports are major contributors.

Future of Co-Working Spaces: The Next Big Thing

min read

5/18/20

The Future of Coworking Spaces

With an inrush of business setups during the decline of commercial spaces, companies are experiencing the paradigm shift in traditional business structure. 14% of corporate workers regularly use coworking spaces, proving that brands are shifting their business model and adjusting accordingly. The future of co-working space is brighter than ever before!

Coworking spaces benefit various business careers: startups, entrepreneurs, business travelers, digital nomads, freelancers, and more. They are all working remotely, in places outside of the typical corporate office. Another component of coworking space for rent are virtual spaces. Virtual office spaces are one of the latest innovations of coworking spaces. It is a professional method to connect with clients. Upsides to a virtual office space include less overhead, better access to candidates, and reliable Wi-Fi connections. These are the vitals for office infrastructure; now they can be achieved at any location. Yes, there is a new age of business and the future of co-working directly reflects this.

Surges in co-working spaces are reported globally. Nations like India have taken greatly to the co-working work model and more countries are following suit. 2022 is expected to be a milestone year for this trend, as the projected number of co-working spaces is estimated to cross 20,000 and reach around 25,968, which would be a jump of 42% when compared to 2019. With an average increase of 2595 new spaces every year, the future of co-working business models is undoubtedly the next big thing.

Since 2005, when the first co-working space opened, it has come a long way and is on an all-time high. Its collaborative work environment model with all modern day office space rental facilities is attracting young business minds and is most likely to be the new normal for the future workforce.

Coworking Spaces are the future of office spaces

In the wake of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, assumptions arose about the future of co-working spaces looking bleak. Much of this sentiment stems from our understanding of shared office spaces. With neighboring businesses only a seat away, adhering to social distancing would present a challenge. On the contrary, most co-working spaces are adapting their facilities to a sanitized and physically distant setting. When most employers are instructing employees to work from home, a co-working space serves as an instant go-to place that offers a convenient work environment and basic office facilities like access to a printer, Wi-Fi connectivity, and audio-visual conferencing. These spaces are equipped to handle a post-COVID-19 work environment.

How COVID-19 Makes Co-working Spaces Even More Important?

With a general slowdown in the economy coping with the pandemic hangover and a conservative approach towards business expansion, the future of co-working spaces post COVID-19 is set to mark an all assuming role and emerge as the new norm for the workforce. Growing beyond the domain of freelancers and startups it is likely to attract large corporate houses too. The ‘work from home’ culture cannot continue for infinity and soon companies will be on the lookout for a reasonably decent workplace that lowers their corporate density and at the same time pulls employees from the lackadaisical ‘work from home mode.

Moreover, small business setups are most likely to rely on the shared co-working resources and use them as their lifeline to sustain in the market and keep their boats afloat.

While millions are likely to lose jobs in the post-pandemic world, there is some good news that co-working spaces can offer. With increased professional networking, a rising membership, and more corporates working under one roof, co-working spaces are likely to emerge as the new job hub, churning out more opportunities.

5 Predictions For The Future of Co-working Spaces in the Next Ten Years

Growing with leaps and bounds, the future of co-working spaces has never been so promising as it looks in the next decade. Here are some predictions that take us into the future of these shared spaces.

The present 5% share of co-working spaces' office space market is likely to swell up to 30% by 2030.
Besides the stalwarts in the industry, there will be a rise in small co-working spaces in tier-II and tier III towns
Customized co-working spaces dedicated to specific industries can gain ground
Along with a user-friendly environment, co-working spaces are likely to adopt a more eco-friendly design promoting use of fresh air, natural sunlight, and open spaces reinforcing the idea of sustainability
Besides leasing office space, co-working spaces may offer shared talent, research, and technology promoting overall productivity

Turning ‘Work From Home’ to ‘Work Near Home’

The post-pandemic economy is likely to set new norms of business and propagate the future of co-working space across the world. COVID-19 has already set us on a ‘work from home’ mode and teaches us that work can be done beyond corporate offices and luxurious board rooms. As more businesses come to this realization, there will be an increase in consciousness to cut down on transportation between homes and offices and choose workplaces close to residential areas. “Walk to Work” will be the new trend amongst corporates and opting for co-working spaces that keep employees remotely connected to the workplace is perhaps the next big thing that professionals will be eyeing. “Work Near Home” is an opportunity that will be easily grabbed by co-working spaces that draw professionals away from the easily mundane work-from-home cycle. It will also keep employees safe from the risks of congested conventional corporate offices.

Indeed, the future of co-working spaces is brighter than ever before. Post-pandemic times will likely increase the trajectory of this trend because many companies will need alternatives to the regular work model. So, get ready to welcome this new normal and share a workspace that brings you closer to the world while keeping you socially distant.

If you have been considering a coworking space in the future, look no further. WorkSocial is revamped and invites you to join them for a new working experience that will benefit your business and wellness. By promoting good hygiene, creating sanitization measures, and removing the concerns of location, convenience, and costs, WorkSocial is prepared to welcome you aboard. In addition to desk and conference room space, they are well-equipped with virtual office services. WorkSocial will help companies and individuals to access their traditional range of services remotely and hassle-free from home. Move forward with your business’s best interest in hand, and find your workshare home today.

How did the leaders you’ve studied manage their own anxieties?

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5/16/20

Conferences and Meetings in the post COVID19 world

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5/12/20

Corona Safety Measures for Your Business

min read

4/30/20

Securing your workplace against coronavirus is an imperative need of the hour during this pandemic, it is integral for offices to enforce all the available precautionary measures at hand. WHO has reiterated that the Covid-19 is highly contagious and this pandemic should not be taken lightly.

Considering the current scenario it is crucial to carry out all the necessary precautions to stay safe from coronavirus. Businesses and individuals have to do whatever it takes in these trying times to try and contain the spread of this infectious disease.

‍Adhering to Stringent Regulations

‍Health Regulatory bodies have suggested maintaining a physical distance from others and avoiding close physical contact. An office is a place where several people are confined to a limited area and work together in close proximity. Incorporating measures such as distance between employees is the responsibility of each individual. Ideally, the distance between work areas should be around 2.5 sq. m. As far as possible people have been advised to work from home. However, most people do not have the required setup to be able to operate out of their home environment. This has increased the demand for space at shared office spaces.

‍Workplace Safety Rule

‍There are certain measures that an office can put in place to ensure general safety. Sanitization is one of the procedures suggested by the medical authorities to prevent the spread of Corona. WorkSocial has taken the initiative to enforce Corona safety in the shared office space. We are not only ensuring that the office area is cleaned meticulously, but we are also sanitizing all the common areas with disinfectant.

‍Compulsory Sanitization for Prevention‍

All those entering the office should sanitize their hands and avoid touching any items or areas of the office unless absolutely required. This precautionary action will ensure your personal safety as well as the safety of others in the same office environment. We strongly recommend that all those using the office space carry alcohol-based hand sanitizer and use it frequently. As a social responsibility WorkSocial also has hand sanitizer dispensers available at strategic locations around the office. Frequent washing of hands is also advisable.

‍Cafeteria Alternatives for Refreshments

‍The use of disposable coffee cups and spoons is another technique whereby we can avoid using items that may be infected. Most offices have cafeterias where food and beverages are served in reusable crockery. During this pandemic, offices should use disposable cutlery and crockery. WorkSocial has a disposable cup dispenser for drinking water and other beverages. Though these may appear to be small and trivial matters, it goes a long way in ensuring everyone’s safety

‍Securing Common Areas

‍‍All offices have certain common areas. The elevator is a common area where people are placed in close confines. The few minutes spent in such close proximity is enough to infect a person. For general safety, we advise that people do not rush to board the elevator when it opens, but remain patient. Only a few people should get into the elevator and ensure that it does not have more than a 50% capacity.

While in the elevator avoid facing one another. In fact, it is preferable to stand facing the wall with your back to the others. It may take a little longer to get to work, but these few minutes of waiting can save your life. After traveling in the elevator one must wash or sanitize their hands.

‍Taking Responsibility for Curtailing the Spread of Corona

‍These are dark days and it is a collective responsibility to stay safe and ensure that the others around us remain safe as well. We understand that businesses need to run and hence you need to come to the office to work. For this reason, we are open and welcome you into our corona safe environment.

Coworking Space NJ Post COVID19 Plans

min read

4/18/20

Workplace Solution for Challenging Times with Corona Outbreak

min read

3/28/20

Contrary to popular belief that coworking offices will lose business with the current pandemic, there has been a surprising turn around. The Coronavirus epidemic has resulted in an increased demand for shared workspace in numerous parts of the world. The reason being - some companies are seeking alternate places for their employees to work from, and shared office space provides the perfect solution. This action is in a bid to execute precautionary measures for the Covid-19 outbreak and space out employees while ensuring the required office infrastructure and facilities.

Diversification is a preventive measure and servesseveral purposes for businesses. At a time when businesses are contemplating how to stay afloat, some companies are exploring different channels. Having employees work from a shared office space is one such possibility which is proving to be a great option with multiple benefits.

Why Shared Office Space?

There are several reasons companies and employees opt to work from a shared office space, the primary one being the availability of proper office infrastructure. Work from home is not always possible when the required setup is not available. The executive cabins at the shared office space afford a secluded environment to carry out business functions. The undisturbed environment enhances productivity and yield better results, enabling companies to gain maximum advantage.

The WorkSocial office space is a fully functional dynamic office space, fully equipped with high speed Wi Fi internet, printing, receptionist, office security and many more services. We offer full support to all our clients to combat the slowdown and lift the focus on accelerating your business.

At a time when travel is restricted to situations of absolute necessity, online meetings have to suffice. We engage you with a conference room fully equipped to handle video and teleconferencing to any part of the country or world. It is the perfect setup to make your presentations from or even hold high level business meetings. Business doesn’t have to come to a standstill just because the world in a lockdown. Once the storm has blown over it will be business as usual. Companies which managed to hold ground will emerge victorious and be able to take advantage of the market void.

Work Space Precautionary Measures

The essential precautionary measures during these challenging times need to be adhered to. Social distancing and adequate sanitisation are critical. We want to ensure that with our stringent measures all our clients protected against untoward risks.

WorkSocial understands these needs and ensures that the workplace interior setup caters to this crucial requirement. We believe that businesses need to stand strong and to sustain and make it through.

The coworking ideology lays out a number merits for companies. It reduces the travel distance and time for those whose offices are located in distant parts of Jersey City. For those who have offices located out of town it provides the needed office infrastructure.We help you overcomes the challenges and continue working without interruptions.

Conclusion

Our turnkey offices are outfitted to suit your every requisite. Schedule a tour and get an overview of what we have to supplement your business.

Virtual Office Benefits to Grow your Business

min read

2/20/20

In the wake of evolving trends, there has also been an immense shift in the way workplaces function. With the emergence of new start-ups every day, there is an increased demand for workplaces that are comfortable, convenient and cost-effective. If you dream of enjoying a stress-free business environment that gives you the freedom to work at flexible timing and place, virtual offices are what you should consider. Many newcomers and start-ups have been embracing this new concept. Here are some of the things one should consider to transform their professional life using virtual spaces. This modern feat is not only best for the employers but also offers a great benefit to the employees.

Benefits of a virtual office: (Employee + Employer) friendly option

When you think about getting a virtual office, you must consider the following:

‍1: Corporate Mailing address

‍Virtual offices offer you a professional mailing address. By signing up for a Virtual Office, you create a physical office without committing a lease obligation. A virtual office gives you the unexpected appearance of working at a physical office location, even though you do not in reality, along with a physical address for correspondence. So there is a little administrative relief for pennies a day.

‍2: Increased business authority

‍An advantage of a virtual office is that the employers can take up home-based businesses and get the work done by the employees, remotely. Thus, the benefits of having a virtual office play an important role when you project your company’s availability in multiple locations.

‍3: Extended phone services

‍In a virtual office, you can pursue a professional virtual environment by having a phone number, fax service, voicemail boxes, and even a virtual voice to handle calls without the need for a receptionist. The businesses can reap additional benefits of virtual offices like reduced human intervention and minimized cost.

‍4: Fulfilled instant services

‍This point strongly supports why to use virtual offices when many people consider having a physical office, though technology has been modernizing every business aspect. Conventional setup involves extensive workforce and space for accommodating everyone and everything. In a virtual office, you can cater to all the business needs via a single-click in software.

‍5: Personalized voicemail box

‍A virtual office gives you the privilege of setting up your preferred voicemail message for calls to communicate clearly and in advance with the customers in cases of your unavailability. Thus, the benefits of having a virtual office increase interaction with your consumers, rigorously.

‍6: Cost-effective practice

‍A real-time office may cost you a huge expense in many aspects. Either you have to rent or lease the commercial space, pay utilities, buy furniture, equipment and technology. The advantages of virtual offices cut down those expenses and help you in saving some cash, which you can invest in future business expansion.

‍7: Work-Life balance for all

‍Work-life balance validates your thought of why use a virtual office. The more your business grows, the more it is important that you as an entrepreneur and your employees can maintain a work-life balance. The benefits of having virtual offices allow everyone to work efficiently from their safe space, which reduces stress levels and also gives enough time to spend with their loved ones.

‍8: Less time consumption

‍The recent trend shows that most employees prefer the work from home options even at a lower salary, as it reduces their commute time, saves the conveyance cost, and, most importantly, provides comfort. Hence, the benefits of virtual offices favour both employees and employers in all positive manner.

‍9: Flexibility of work‍

Flexibility at work makes employees more energetic, enthusiastic and interested in work. They regard it as a special privilege endowed by the company to log in at their convenience and even work during mobility or with their mobile phones. Such advantages of virtual offices save not only time but improve overall work attitude.

‍10: Enhanced productivity

‍Working from home reduces distraction and improves concentration at work, and so, even if you work for limited number hours, your productivity improves, and both the company as well as you benefit in monetary terms.

‍11: Increased team size

‍Without the barrier of fixed workspace and legal formalities, you can smoothly increase your team size with the benefits of having a virtual office. This, in turn, creates a positive impact on your business growth as well as on your employees and customers.

‍12: Protect the environment

‍You can run a business without imposing damage to the environment through the virtual offices. They also offer a peaceful environment to employees by preventing them from exposure to all types of pollution by eliminating commute.

‍13: Attract the best talent

‍You can hire the best talents you need without investing in money, recruitment drives, and this provides ample time to choose the right person for the right position.

‍14: Increase scalability

‍Having virtual offices helps you in scaling up and down your resources without facing any consequences and helps grow your business constantly.‍

15: Easy setup

Virtual offices are easy to set up and easy to shut down as well, without the need to spend anything additional.

In a nutshell, having a virtual office is always an asset to start-ups during their initial stages, and they can even further continue with the same practice for efficient and faster business growth. If you are a smart entrepreneur, you will go for virtual offices because it gives you ample time to manage the ups and downs in your business till you embrace stability.