Tell me about Venture Workspace and the services it offers.
Our Venture Workspace journey began in 2016 as a response to the need for co-working and flexible serviced office spaces. There was a gap in the market for a locally-owned organisation that understood the evolving nature of work (and being a working professional) in South Africa.
We launched our first branch in Claremont, Cape Town. From there, we set up offices in Constantia and Somerset West. We have now expanded into Johannesburg with our latest space in Fourways, at the Cedar Square Shopping Centre.
Whichever path you take, always remember to put yourself in your client's shoes, know your product well and learn to adapt
We offer several flexible packages, including open areas for co-working/hot desks, fully furnished and serviced offices and dedicated meeting rooms.
We also offer the service of a virtual office where businesses can make use of our physical address, along with call answering and transfer services, without the added cost of an actual office and receptionist.
How did you end up doing what you do?
I have a background in the events industry, but after 15 years of crazy hours I realised I needed to make a change. Having a solid understanding of client service, co-working spaces felt like a natural progression.
How have co-working spaces changed since the pandemic?
Lockdown was the catalyst that saw the exponential growth of co-working spaces in South Africa. Coupled with the rise in remote working, large and small companies have now realised the cost-saving benefits of flexible offices.
After being isolated at home for so long, many professionals also wanted that middle-medium of hybrid working where they could still connect with other professionals without always bringing their work home.
Who would be your typical client?
We don't have a “typical” client. We welcome anyone who needs to get their work done in a supportive environment without interruptions. From SMEs and NPOs, to corporate teams and one-person shows, anyone can walk through our doors and find exactly what they need.
Our co-working spaces are brimming with individuals from various sectors as well as a host of digital nomads living and working in our beautiful country. It's a fantastic environment for collaboration and networking if that's what you're after.
What makes you good at what you do?
I am attentive to detail and always look at situations from all angles. I also possess a high level of empathy, which helps me tap into the needs of our growing client base. While it's important to focus on the big things, the little things done well often make the most impact, and that's what we get right.
As much as great coffee and fast fibre are important, often a warm greeting and a few kind, supportive words can go a long way.
It's how you make people feel that makes the most difference. I've always said that co-working spaces are hotels for offices, and hospitality is paramount in the customer experience.
What is your go-to career advice for young people?
Do what you love. I cannot stress how important this is. Developing your career in a discipline you are passionate about will keep you energised and fulfilled while prompting you to stay motivated and consistent during challenging times.
While earning a living is essential, don't make wealth creation the sole objective. In my experience, financial gain comes naturally as the reward of perseverance.
Whichever path you take, always remember to put yourself in your client's shoes, know your product well and learn to adapt. See challenges as opportunities, and if you can solve a problem with a unique solution, there's no reason you can't be successful.
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