Work-life balance: the use of coworking spaces

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the expectations of parents working on a flexible basis using coworking facilities to overcome work-family conflict and to maintain work-life balance. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach is employed to analyze data collected between 2014 and 2017 as part of an ongoing longitudinal study through participant observation in five small to medium coworking spaces from four European countries. In addition, unstructured face- to- face interviews are conducted with seven females and five males using coworking spaces and their responses analyzed using thematic content analysis. Findings The results suggest that flexible workers who have to combine the demands of family life with meeting work goals look for working conditions that will help them resolve conflict, bolster their social lives, and help with career progression. In addition, mediation mechanisms are used in coworking spaces to deal with work-family conflict building a community that offers support. Practical implications Therefore, managers of coworking spaces should consider feedback from uses as to their needs and preferences, spatial planning to increase social and professional interaction and initiate mediation mechanisms to increase trust and collaboration. Originality/value This paper has an original approach by providing an insight into an under researched topic and providing a knowledge base for future researchers.