Communicating role expectations in a coworking office

• Published in: Journal of communication management (London, England) England), 2019-11, Vol.23 (4), p.316-330
• Main Author: Walden, Justin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Business communications; Collaboration; Communication; Employees; Employers; Employment; Headphones; Market positioning; Marketing; Membership; Office space; Peers; Roles; Socialization; Teams; Telecommuting; Verbal communication; Work at home
• ISSN: 1363-254X; 1478-0852
• DOI: 10.1108/JCOM-09-2018-0097

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to understand the motivations behind teleworkers’ role transitions in a coworking office and how these motivations shape role communication between independent workers in a shared office. Design/methodology/approach This paper draws upon observation, in-depth interviews (n=23) and temporary membership in the organization. Findings Self-enhancement and self-validation motivations work in concert to prompt individuals to capitalize on the networking opportunities that come with membership in this office and individuals strategically position an occupation-framed version of their identity in these networks. Research limitations/implications Only one coworking office was studied. However, this is countered by the richness of the data. Practical implications Communication managers whose organizations employ teleworkers are encouraged to provide ongoing social and task-related support to their teleworkers; coworking site proprietors are encouraged to ensure members understand what is expected of them when they join a coworking office. Social implications As teleworking is a widely-used flexible work arrangement, this study advances knowledge of teleworker management. Originality/value Scholars have not yet explored how individuals use coworking spaces and what motivates teleworkers to establish their role identities in mixed offices.