Chemicals and science dictate how humans behave in social situations, and each individual’s brain is built differently. Extroverts for example, possess a low sensitivity to dopamine, and vice versa for introverts. This sensitivity decides their level of stimulation and, hence, behavior, in response to various external stimuli.
Contrary to the stereotype, all extroverts aren’t loud, and all introverts aren’t shy. It is a matter of how each gains and loses energy from involuntary interactions that consequently affect work productivity. With the emergence of non-conventional jobs, workers are no longer confined to a traditional workspaces. As coworking spaces rise in popularity, so does the need to understand the people that occupy them.
Remote workspaces can be beneficial or disastrous to a worker’s productivity. It all depends on the benefits the co-space has to offer. All members regardless of their social skills expect opportunities to interact, collaborate, and mutually benefit from networks available at their respective coworking hub.
Understanding the functions of introverted and extroverted personalities in a social context helps build a better work environment and fight limitations in terms of the offerings in co-working spaces.
Extroverts
Extroverts are natural born leaders who find joy in visiting places and meeting people. The excess of adrenaline motivates them, keeping them active and talkative. They pursue social interactions in open functional spaces. Owing to their nature, extroverts may feel out of their element in poorly designed remote workspaces.
They may face trouble adjusting and miss the energy of bustling work environments if co-working spaces provide poor possibilities for interaction and lack like-minded people or a strong sense of community.
Extroverts show high commitment to their coworking communities if it results in better networking, and provides a variety of people and the building of connections. They will often be found near natural hubs such as coffee stalls or community sections. They speak to at least six other members in a coworking space on average and are more likely to know everyone on a first-name basis.
To make your co-space nurturing for extroverts, allow for an integrated sense of community to establish by hosting a multitude of networking and social events. Give their exuberant and confident personality the opportunity to shine in skill-sharing activities. They prefer confidence-building activities; hence, accountability groups – where they can impart skills, mentor, and teach – are a good addition
Introverts
Introverts are generally problem solvers and reflective planners. Their productivity suffers when faced with excessive involuntary interactions. They seek solace in secluded functional spaces but equally demand a sanctuary of motivation and assistance. Workspaces built with clear design cues give introverts equal opportunity to engage and work.
Given their nature, it may be harder for them to ask for support. They may feel the need to build relationships at work and collaborate, but in limited capacity. Their aim is to connect and boost their productivity. However, they will find people daunting and introductions cumbersome.
Introverts prefer placing themselves near mature companies with less foot traffic because they find excessive chatting counterintuitive. Community managers can assist them by connecting them with valuable people to build a network with, and break the ice.
Monthly events and planned communal activities could be a gateway for them to listen, share, and connect. Coworking spaces need to give them opportunities to actively participate in events by hosting skill-sharing activities or partnerships.
Introverts respond better to personalized invitations to social events, such as “We would really like you to join the event on Friday, John” rather than “There is an event on Friday. Do you want to come?” Make them feel included as an important member of the community.
Regardless of the type of personality you have, you’re bound to find a coworking space that suits you and fulfills all your needs. Let us know what you think about working alongside creative geniuses and problem solvers in the comments below.
