Shirlene Sim Talks JustCo: Flexibility and Work-Life Harmony Across APAC

Post on August 19, 2024

In today's rapidly evolving work environment, flexibility and community have become essential components of professional success. JustCo, a leading coworking space provider in the Asia Pacific region, understands this shift and has positioned itself as a trusted partner for SMEs and professionals alike. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Shirlene Sim, Vice President and Head of JustCo Singapore, to discuss what sets JustCo apart, how they are supporting businesses across the region, and what the future holds for this dynamic company. 

 

Question 1: Hi Shirlene, thanks for doing this with us. Let’s talk JustCo – what are three words that first come to mind when you think of JustCo? 

Shirlene: SMEs. Flexibility. Singaporeans.

 

Question 2: What would you say makes JustCo unique? 

Shirlene: Our JustCo community across Asia Pacific thrives on flexibility and productivity. With a single membership, members gain convenient access to over 40 JustCo centres across eight gateway cities in the region, all well-equipped with a variety of purpose-built workspaces, ergonomic furniture, and nature-inspired furnishings. 

Best of all, JustCo is the ideal solution for SMEs seeking to expand, connect, and pursue a meaningful work experience. The recent launch of JustCo Business Solutions also provides SMEs with a platform to connect with reliable vendors for professional services, freeing up their resources to focus on driving business growth. 

As a homegrown Singaporean brand, we also seek to collaborate with other local brands such as Razer, SecretLab, and Tiong Hoe to create experiential zones or curate artisanal coffee experiences, enhancing the overall coworking experience in every way possible. 

In addition, we are expanding our work-life destinations network across Asia. Of the 40+ operational centres, 11 are located within shopping malls or mixed developments (five are in Singapore). We have plans to launch more work-life coworking destinations in the coming months to help our members achieve better work-life harmony. 

Question 3. What are your favourite things about JustCo? Especially your newest 108 Robinson Road office in Singapore? 

Shirlene: We aim to leverage design to cultivate a strong sense of place and connection among its members, drawing inspiration from local heritage and community. At JustCo 108 Robinson Road, the in-house design team meticulously researched the rich history of the surrounding shophouses and incorporated elements like white mosaic tiled flooring and green louvred feature panels into the overall design.

This homage to heritage is not limited to the 108 Robinson Road location. Elements of history have been integrated into newer centres, such as JustCo Hong Leong Building and JustCo Central Plaza, showcasing Singapore's commercial and residential evolution within the Central Business District.

Creating a strong sense of place not only fosters a connection between the workspace and its surroundings but also enhances a sense of belonging among members, which is positively correlated with better work performance.

Question 4: What regular events are you looking to host for your members network? 

Shirlene: We strive to create localised experiences for members of different markets. For instance, JustCo Singapore runs a monthly edition of “Wholesome Wednesday”, JustCo Thailand runs a monthly edition of “Thirsty Thursday” and JustCo Korea hosts a monthly edition of “Just Battle.” Be it chill-out tea break sessions or gaming sessions, these are ways we stay engaged with our community and provide them with opportunities to network in a relaxing setting. Partnerships with vendors during events like "Wholesome Wednesday" create a warm and inviting atmosphere, encouraging members to relax, connect, and foster meaningful relationships over delightful refreshments. These events strengthen the sense of community within JustCo, offering dedicated time and space for members to come together.

Question 5: What’s Next for JustCo?

Shirlene: JustCo is committed to sustainable expansion across the eight cities where it operates in Asia Pacific (APAC). In the coming months, new centres will launch in Bangkok, Seoul, and Tokyo, including exciting work-life destinations in prime locations.

JustCo aims to build a seamless coworking network across APAC, where professionals and businesses can expand based on their needs, achieve productivity, practice workplace wellbeing, and embrace the "work-from-everywhere" lifestyle in this hybrid era. At JustCo, better "work-life balance" and "flexible work" are not just buzzwords; the company is working closely with stakeholders to make these ideals a reality for its members.

 

Final words

 

As businesses continue to adapt to the new era of hybrid work, JustCo is at the forefront, providing flexible workspace solutions that cater to the evolving needs of professionals and companies. With a strong commitment to community, innovation, and sustainability, JustCo is not just offering spaces; it’s creating environments where businesses can thrive. Whether you’re a small start-up or an established enterprise, JustCo’s comprehensive offerings are designed to support your journey, helping you achieve a balance between productivity, wellbeing, and connectivity.

JustCo’s newest location at 108 Robinson Road, Singapore is accessible via workbuddy!

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