# LLMs-Full.txt - Full Content for Project Pages # Generated on: 2026-02-03T10:21:55.611Z # Total pages: 59 --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/blog ### Title: Blog ### Page ID: 1313681 ### Content: # UNICORN BLOG # Meet the Members: Kimberly Moravec ### Our Latest Posts ### Being competitive as a freelance business owner ### How can individual personality traits affect our freelance business? ## Our Latest Posts ###### Adapting your freelance skills and services to a changing market ###### Being competitive as a freelance business owner ## Meet the Members ## Meet the Members ## Coworking ## The value of a physical workplace ## Coffee & Coworking at Unicorn Studios ## The advantages of starting a new business in a coworking studio ## Join Our Studio ### benefits This month’s "Meet the Member" features Kimberly Moravec, a freelance science editor with a special interest in artificial intelligence. In her spare time, she loves writing science fiction, and has recently published a zombie novel called [*Undead on Arrival*](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Undead-Arrival-Trilby-Black-ebook/dp/B0CNZH3XYS). Who says resolutions have to be serious? Why strive for boring goals when you can embrace your inner unicorn? Whether you’re enjoying glittery breakfasts or adopting a mystical new hobby, 2025 is about leaving the ordinary behind and embracing the absurd. This month’s "Meet the Member" features James Hobson the owner and director of Moor-Art Gallery, an online store focused on pop culture artworks from movies and video games.  We add importance to many material things these days but have you ever considered the value of a physical workplace? I know I didn't until the events of the last few years... What is it about drinking coffee that is so pleasurable? Why does it fit so perfectly in a coworking environment? One member shares her thoughts. Coworking studios offer entrepreneurs many advantages when starting a new business from reduced overheads to increased visibility. With flexible working, and professional networking opportunities, there is great potential for growth and business development within a coworking space. Opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ALL](/blog "ALL") - [COWORKING](/coworking "COWORKING") - [REMOTE WORKING](/remote-working "REMOTE WORKING") - [MEMBERS](/members "MEMBERS") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/reset-password-page ### Title: Reset password page ### Page ID: 1313687 ### Content: Reset Password Reset Password --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members ### Title: Meet the Members ### Page ID: 2086743 ### Content: # UNICORN BLOG ### Meet the Members ### Meet the Members #### Further Reading ## Join Our Studio ### benefits This month’s "Meet the Member" features Kimberly Moravec, a freelance science editor with a special interest in artificial intelligence. In her spare time, she loves writing science fiction, and has recently published a zombie novel called [*Undead on Arrival*](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Undead-Arrival-Trilby-Black-ebook/dp/B0CNZH3XYS). This month’s "Meet the Member" features James Hobson the owner and director of Moor-Art Gallery, an online store focused on pop culture artworks from movies and video games.  This month’s "Meet the Member" features Penelope Walker, who designed The Panathlon Joy Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year. In her spare time she enjoys, running, cycling, and working out, as well as acquiring new skills redecorating her house. This month’s "Meet the Member" features digital marketer, and content creator Chloe Plumstead. In her spare time, she loves gardening. She has recently teamed up with Feverfew Garden Company, to design her, “dream pair of gardening gloves”. This month's "Meet the Member" features Freelance Writer Simon Talbot, who specialises in creating audio guides for historical and cultural sites around the world. He also narrates and produces a podcast about badly behaved historical figures called Rogues Gallery Uncovered. This month's "Meet the Member" features Illustrator Mark King, who designed our coat of arms on the Studio wall. He can consume his own weight in Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough ice-cream, and is learning to create clay sculptures. Opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ALL](/blog "ALL") - [COWORKING](/coworking "COWORKING") - [REMOTE WORKING](/remote-working "REMOTE WORKING") - [MEMBERS](/members "MEMBERS") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-james-crisp ### Title: Meet the Members: James Crisp ### Page ID: 2086744 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **When working at home what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### **Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster?** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month’s "Meet the Member" features user experience designer, woodturner, marathon runner, and marmite eating James Crisp. I’m James, a User Experience Designer working for a cyber security company. My role is basically to find out what our customers need, then design the easiest way of doing it in our software, test it with the clients then pass it to the development team for building. Back at the start of 2020, I was working for a different company, in an office but like a lot of people, the pandemic changed that. Working from home, while enjoyable at first, became isolating for me. I found myself rarely going out and only speaking to people on Zoom. I needed to get back into a creative office environment and at the start of the year I found Unicorn Studios. I can honestly say that because of Unicorn Studios I am happier and more productive than I have been in years. As a teenager I worked in a DIY store for a few years, then drove an ice cream van for a summer. My first “real job” was working as a Graphic Designer for the University of Plymouth, part time while still studying then full time when I graduated. That’s a really hard one, I have been designing stuff for over 20 years so I have done a lot of things that make me proud. The accomplishment I am most proud of though is just being where I am today, doing a job I love. I would say that I am an early bird, I get up most days at 6am. Turning the music up nice and loud and having crumpets with Marmite and peanut butter for a mid morning snack. Completing my first half marathon because I have been suffering from Achilles tendon problems for a few years. I am finally overcoming them and able to run again, for longer and get my fitness back.  I have a few, I am a woodturner, handyman and gardener. Playing the guitar. I have always wanted to play guitar, and have tried a few times but never found the time to practice enough to get past the basics. **Steve Jobs** - I would love to discuss his views on usability and product design. **F.H.K. Henrion** - He was a true pioneer of Graphic design. **Adam Savage** - I love his 'Tested' Youtube channel, and I could spend hours chatting to him about creating all sorts of geeky stuff. Definitely a tiny unicorn. I have two daughters and they both love Unicorns at the moment. My daughters love the idea that I work at Unicorn Studios. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-catalina-carvajal ### Title: Meet the Members: Catalina Carvajal ### Page ID: 2087009 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself** ### **When do you feel most creative?** ### **How did you find out about Unicorn Studios?** ### **While working at home what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **Have you had any embarrassing Zoom moments?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories from 2020?** ### **What have you most looked forward to as the world starts to get back to ‘normal'?** ### **What would success look like for you in the future?** ### **Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster?** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month’s "Meet the Member" features Colombian illustrator, mural artist and scotch pancake eater Catalina Carvajal. I'm a Colombian illustrator and visual artist currently living in Ipswich. I'm adventurous and a bit of a hot-headed person that knows how to disguise it (or not?). Some say that I'm a bit inappropriate but I usually get away with it. I'm fond of Scotch pancakes, porridge and tea in the mornings. I think I've finally adapted to the British diet and weather. It took me 4 years though. I'm in love with British rock music While sleeping (yes!), after a good night's sleep, after reading or watching something inspirational and, I must confess, when under pressure. I'm a stress ball. Online. A couple of years ago I didn't have many professional connections or friends around. I was looking for creative places to meet like-minded people and do some networking. From time to time, eating a bowl of crisps, a mix of nuts and raisins and a can of Coke while watching videos of pranks on YouTube during my long breaks. Arriving unprepared to a meeting I didn't know I was going to chair! Very embarrassing indeed. I fixed it with my charm though. I've managed to keep unusual "decorative objects" out of the way (private joke?). I'm very, very, very good at sleeping and waiting for planes and trains. While living in Mexico, I learned how to have little semi-naps in the underground during long journeys - I never missed a stop. Many things, but the main ones would be, the history of the world, economics and sewing. I'd make my own dresses to rule the world in style. Getting to attend the Illustrators' Meet-up at Unicorn Studios before lockdown started! It was a good taste of the fantastic workspace and the amazing individuals I would be surrounded by if I joined. Also getting involved in artistic community projects, such an eye opener. To visit Mum, Dad and Bro in Colombia, I really miss them! A visit to Portugal is next on the list. Be a relatively healthy and not so grumpy lady of a certain age that can depart this world without any emotional or financial debts. I'm already tiny but having a horn would be great! I could jab bigots' feet with it without their noticing. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/what-does-it-take-to-thrive-in-a-coworking-space ### Title: What does it take to thrive in a coworking space? ### Page ID: 2164659 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## Tips for thriving in a coworking space ### Find the right fit ### Get to know your coworkers ### Use the space as an opportunity to grow ### Respect the space  ### Make use of the amenities ### Get involved ## What are the key personality traits for thriving in a coworking space? ### Able to work independently ### Flexibility and adaptability ## Unicorn Studios is a coworking space where you can thrive ### Further reading: ### Member's Stories ### Members ### Remote working ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, or remote worker, coworking spaces can provide the perfect place to thrive whilst at work. With communities of like-minded professionals, members can be more productive, creative, and self-motivated.  Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote worker, you may have considered working in a coworking space. If so, here are a few tips to help you thrive: There are lots of different types of coworking spaces out there, so it’s important to find one that suits your needs and personality. They aren't a 'one size fits all' kind of set up. They have different layouts, resources and cultures. Some places like [Unicorn Studios](https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/unicorn-studios-membership) offer free trial days, so get in contact, and see whether they can meet your particular needs. It can be a little daunting when you join a new workplace but coworking spaces can be really friendly environments. Established members are used to welcoming new people, so you don't have to feel like the new kid on the block for months on end. Don’t be afraid to chat with fellow coworkers and get to know their backgrounds, and interests. You don't know where this might lead in the future. You might even gain some new business. Coworking spaces usually attract people across a wide variety of job roles and industries. Many are highly skilled and often willing to share their knowledge. By surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals, you can develop a supportive network that can help you develop your skills and become more productive. Remember that you’re sharing the space with other people, so be considerate and respectful of others’ needs and schedules. Some people enjoy interacting with others, whilst others may prefer to sit quietly in a corner and focus on their work. An important part of thriving in a coworking space is taking advantage of all the amenities it has to offer. Many coworking spaces provide shared work spaces, meeting rooms, and areas to relax and socialise. These facilities can make your coworking experience more enjoyable and productive. Some coworking studios have thriving communities and organise regular social events. Take the plunge and get involved in the activities they organise. They can be a great way to meet other like-minded people and make some valuable connections. There are a few key personality traits that help you to thrive in a coworking space: If you are at a stage in your career where you still rely on the regular supervision and support from colleagues in your company, a coworking space may not be the best fit for you. However, if you enjoy working independently then remote working in a coworking studio can be a really enjoyable experience. This is particularly true for people who like engaging and learning from others across different sectors. People who are proactive and take advantage of the resources available to them in coworking spaces are more likely to be successful. By networking and collaborating with others, you can create opportunities for yourself and your business The working environment in a coworking space can change from day to day depending on who is working there. Some days can be noisy with lots of interactivity, whilst others can be quiet with people heavily focused on work. If you are able to be flexible and adaptable, and can adjust to the different working environments, you'll be able to thrive and enjoy all the benefits a coworking space can offer. If you're looking for a cost effective working environment where you can thrive, Unicorn Studios could be the perfect fit. Our supportive community and range of amenities, makes Unicorn Studios a great place to grow your business. Our central Ipswich location with a range of local parking and public transport makes it easy to get to and from work. Come see why so many people are choosing Unicorn Studios as their coworking space of choice. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/coworking ### Title: Coworking ### Page ID: 2164660 ### Content: # UNICORN BLOG ## Coworking ### What does it take to thrive in a coworking space? #### The value of a physical workplace #### Coffee & Coworking at Unicorn Studios #### The advantages of starting a new business in a coworking studio ## Coworking ### The value of a physical workplace #### Coffee & Coworking at Unicorn Studios #### The advantages of starting a new business in a coworking studio #### New Year New Unicorn! #### Further Reading ### Meet the Members: Kimberly Moravec ### Meet the Members: James Hobson ### Meet the Members: Penelope Walker ## Join Our Studio ### benefits Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, or remote worker, coworking spaces can provide the perfect place to thrive whilst at work. With communities of like-minded professionals, members can be more productive, creative, and self-motivated.  We add importance to many material things these days but have you ever considered the value of a physical workplace? I know I didn't until the events of the last few years... This month’s "Meet the Member" features Kimberly Moravec, a freelance science editor with a special interest in artificial intelligence. In her spare time, she loves writing science fiction, and has recently published a zombie novel called [*Undead on Arrival*](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Undead-Arrival-Trilby-Black-ebook/dp/B0CNZH3XYS). This month’s "Meet the Member" features James Hobson the owner and director of Moor-Art Gallery, an online store focused on pop culture artworks from movies and video games.  This month’s "Meet the Member" features Penelope Walker, who designed The Panathlon Joy Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year. In her spare time she enjoys, running, cycling, and working out, as well as acquiring new skills redecorating her house. Opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ALL](/blog "ALL") - [COWORKING](/coworking "COWORKING") - [REMOTE WORKING](/remote-working "REMOTE WORKING") - [MEMBERS](/members "MEMBERS") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/remote-working ### Title: Remote working ### Page ID: 2164667 ### Content: # UNICORN BLOG ## Remote Working ### Why remote working can increase stress levels and how to combat it ### The challenges of remote working ### 11 reasons why remote working is effective for professionals #### Further Reading ## Join Our Studio ### benefits The rise of remote work has brought a lot of benefits for employees such as flexible working patterns but with no clear separation between work and home life, remote workers can find it difficult to disconnect, which can lead to elevated levels of stress and feelings of overwhelm. Opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ALL](/blog "ALL") - [COWORKING](/coworking "COWORKING") - [REMOTE WORKING](/remote-working "REMOTE WORKING") - [MEMBERS](/members "MEMBERS") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/what-are-the-advantages-of-working-in-a-coworking-space ### Title: What are the advantages of working in a coworking space? ### Page ID: 2174884 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## Productivity and growth ## Gain valuable experience and skills ## Coworking spaces offer a unique opportunity for people to gain valuable experience and skills that can be lacking when working remotely from home. By working alongside other professionals in a shared space, members can learn new techniques and strategies that they can use in their own businesses. ## A collaborative environment ## Achieve a work-life balance ## Be part of a thriving community ## Network with other professionals ## Access to resources and shared equipment ## Save money on renting a private office ## Flexible work hours ## Convenient location ## Coworking at Unicorn Studios ### Further reading: ### Member's Stories ### Members ### Remote working ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration What are the advantages of working in a coworking space? There are many advantages to working in a coworking space, including the ability to network with other professionals, collaborate on projects, share resources and equipment, and save money on renting a private office.  Coworking spaces can provide a sense of community and support for freelancers and entrepreneurs who might otherwise feel isolated. Coworking spaces are a great way to promote productivity and growth for your business. By bringing people together in a shared workspace, you can create an environment that is conducive to collaboration and innovation. Additionally, coworking spaces provide access to a variety of resources and amenities that can help your business thrive. In addition, coworking spaces provide a supportive community of like-minded individuals who can offer advice and support. There are many advantages to coworking spaces, but one of the most beneficial is the collaborative environment they provide. By bringing people with different skills and knowledge together in one space, coworking spaces encourage creativity and collaboration. This can enable members to develop new business ideas and solutions that wouldn't have been possible if they were working alone. The collaborative nature of coworking spaces is very conducive to business innovation and networking opportunities that can maximise growth potential. One of the most important benefits of coworking spaces is the work-life balance that they offer. In a traditional office, it can be difficult to find time to take breaks or step away from your desk. But in a coworking studio, there are plenty of opportunities to take a break and recharge. Whether it’s taking a walk around the block or grabbing a coffee with another member, you can always find time to refresh and relax. This can make it much easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Joining a coworking space can provide a great opportunity to be part of a thriving community of like-minded individuals. This can help to create a strong support network and give you access to potential collaborators and clients. In addition, coworking spaces often have a range of events and activities that can help members meet new people and learn new skills. Coworking spaces offer a unique opportunity to be part of a thriving community of like-minded professionals, while still enjoying the independence of working on your own projects.  Coworking spaces provide the opportunity to network with other professionals in a variety of industries. This can lead to new business opportunities, collaborations, and friendships. Networking in a coworking space can also help members stay up-to-date on trends in their industry and learn about new technologies. Coworking spaces provide a unique opportunity to make connections with like-minded people. In coworking spaces, members have access to shared equipment, which can be a cost-effective way to get started with a new business. Shared equipment can include everything from office supplies and furniture to computer equipment and software. This can be a great way to get a business up and running without having to make a large investment. Coworking environments can provide a great sense of camaraderie and support, as well as access to a wealth of knowledge and resources. Coworking spaces often have a variety of amenities that can make a member's workday more productive and enjoyable, such as specialty coffees and teas, comfortable seating, printing equipment, and meeting rooms. Coworking spaces offer a cheaper alternative to renting a private office. They provide a shared work environment where members can rent a desk or cubicle, and have access to common areas and amenities. Coworking spaces offer a cost-effective way to get work done. They can save people money on overhead costs, and give them the flexibility to work from different locations. Coworking spaces offer a great deal of flexibility when it comes to work hours. This can be a huge advantage for freelancers or anyone who doesn't have a set work schedule. Members can come and go as they please, and there is usually no pressure to work certain hours. This can make it easier to balance work and other commitments. Coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a flexible and affordable way to work. These spaces are often located in nearby towns and provide a range of amenities, making them ideal for those who want to escape the traditional office environment. The convenient location of coworking spaces is one of their main advantages. They are typically located in central business districts or near public transportation, making them easy to get to for workers. This can save time and money on commuting, and make it easier for workers to meet up for collaboration. Coworking spaces are typically located in convenient, town centre locations that make them easy to get to for workers. This can be a big advantage over working from home or a traditional office, which can often be located in less convenient or less desirable areas.  Unicorn Studios is a coworking space in the heart of Ipswich, Suffolk. Our coworking space offers its members a number of advantages, including access to a community of like-minded individuals, a variety of amenities, and a flexible work environment. Our members consist of freelancers, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. Coworking at Unicorn Studios is a great way to meet like-minded people, and get work done in a friendly environment.  Unicorn Studios has an active community. We organise monthly social events for members, that include quiz nights, and meals at local restaurants. Our members have access to a private phone booth, kitchen facilities, meeting areas, and printing equipment. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/how-coworking-spaces-are-changing-the-way-we-work ### Title: How coworking spaces are changing the way we work ### Page ID: 2175348 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## Working in coworking spaces ### Flexible workspace options ### Remote working in coworking spaces #### Benefits for remote workers ### On-demand office space ### Dedicated desk space ### Shared workspace ### Collaboration opportunities in coworking spaces ### Social media engagement spaces ### Knowledge sharing spaces ### Socialising spaces in coworking environments ### Networked coworking spaces ### These coworking spaces are designed to connect members with each other and with resources that can help them be more successful in their businesses. For example, many networked coworking spaces offer access to business mentors, investors, and other professionals who can provide advice and assistance. ### Community building spaces ### These environments are often filled with small businesses and freelancers who are looking for a ready made community and place to connect with others. ### Access to technology ### Affordable workspace rates ### Networking opportunities ### Better health and wellbeing ### Less stress and more productivity ### Access to experts and resources ### How coworking at Unicorn Studios is changing the way people work ### Further reading: ### Member's Stories ### Members ### Remote working ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration With the advent of technology and the growing need for flexibility, coworking spaces are growing in popularity and are changing the way we work. They provide flexible, affordable working spaces that offer all the benefits of traditional office space, without the costs, or legal obligations. Coworking spaces can provide a sense of community and support for freelancers and entrepreneurs who might otherwise feel isolated. As coworking spaces continue to grow in popularity, they are changing our professional lives and the way we think about work.  Coworking spaces provide a flexible and affordable option for those who don't want to commit to a traditional office space. They can also be a great way for freelancers and solo entrepreneurs to meet other professionals and establish their businesses. Coworking spaces offer a more flexible working environment than traditional office settings, which can be beneficial for those who need to balance work with other commitments. As more and more people work remotely, coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular. These shared office spaces provide a place for people to work in a professional environment, local to where they live, without the need to travel to their employer's premises. Coworking spaces offer a number of benefits for remote workers: In the modern work place employees no longer have to be tied to a single office location - with coworking spaces, they can choose an on-demand office that suits their needs. This flexibility has made coworking spaces immensely popular with remote workers, and digital nomads in recent years.  Dedicated desk space is becoming increasingly popular in coworking spaces. It is a good option for members who require a consistent workspace that they can personalise and use for focused work. A more permanent workspace, can also be important for those who work remotely, as it provides a dedicated space where they can store computer equipment and meet with other like-minded professionals. Dedicated desk spaces can give people the opportunity to connect with others and build a community in their local neighbourhood. Shared work environments can provide a great place for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to work. Most coworking spaces offer communal work areas, which can be beneficial for networking and creativity. They provide a space where people from different professional disciplines can network and collaborate. Coworking environments offer a variety of amenities, such as Wi-Fi, coffee, and communal workspaces, that make them an attractive option for those looking for an alternative to the traditional office setting. Collaboration spaces are becoming increasingly popular in coworking environments. These spaces provide a unique opportunity for professionals to collaborate with others in a creative and productive environment. As these spaces are often equipped with the latest technology and amenities, they can be ideal for startup businesses who are looking to promote innovation. Collaboration spaces can also be a great place for people to meet fellow co-workers, work together on projects and share ideas.  Dedicated communal areas promote creativity and collaboration by bringing people with different skillsets and backgrounds together. As coworking spaces continue to grow in popularity, they are beginning to experiment with new ways to engage with their members and become more social media friendly. Many spaces now offer dedicated areas for social media engagement, complete with comfortable seating and power outlets. This allows workers to stay connected and engaged with their online communities while still enjoying the benefits of a shared workspace. Social media engagement spaces can have the added advantage of members promoting the coworking space itself. Whilst coworking spaces are a great way for freelancers, remote workers, and small business owners to get out of the house and into a professional setting, they offer more than just a place to work. They can also be an excellent way of fostering a community of knowledge sharing and collaboration. At their best, coworking spaces provide a place for like-minded professionals to come together and share ideas, advice, and best practices. This can be an invaluable resource for anyone starting out in their career or looking to develop their business.  The rise of coworking spaces has brought about a new way of working that is more collaborative and social. These spaces provide a place for people to come together and work on projects, while also enjoying the company of others. This has led to a more productive and creative work environment for many individuals. These spaces provide a place for coworkers to connect and network with others in similar industries. Dedicated socialising spaces can be particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs, small businesses and freelancers. Coworking spaces are evolving to meet the needs of their members. One trend that is becoming increasingly common is the development of networked coworking spaces. This type of coworking space can be particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs who are looking for opportunities to collaborate with others. By connecting with like-minded individuals, they can not only get the support they need to grow their businesses but also make valuable connections that can lead to new business opportunities. Coworking spaces can provide a sense of community and collaboration that many people crave. Community building is essential in coworking spaces, as it helps create a sense of belonging and encourages people to work together. Community-building spaces provide a unique opportunity for people to come together and collaborate in a more informal setting. This can be beneficial for both businesses and remote employees, as it allows for greater creativity and networking potential. One of the key benefits of coworking spaces is their ability to provide access to technology that may not be available in a traditional office setting. In some larger cities, this can include everything from high-speed internet and 3D printers to virtual reality headsets. The average cost of renting an office space in the UK has fallen from its height of £700 per person in May 2020 to £450.00 per person in the last quarter of 2022. Prices vary considerably across the country, however, Cambridge has the most expensive private office space at £650.00 per person, whilst Newcastle offers the lowest at £158.00. Despite the decreasing cost of private office space, inflationary pressures on utilities and other resources can make it difficult for many small businesses and startups to find affordable workspace. Coworking spaces are becoming an increasingly attractive option for businesses that want to save on the cost of office space, as they offer a more affordable alternative to the traditional office, without the need to sign expensive leases. Coworking spaces offer excellent opportunities to network. By bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and industries, coworking spaces provide the perfect environment for making new connections. Whether individuals are looking to meet potential collaborators or simply expand their professional network, coworking spaces offer a great way to connect with like-minded individuals. Studies have shown that coworking spaces can have a number of benefits for a member's health and wellbeing. Working in a coworking environment can improve general health and help promote a better work-life balance. Coworking can also boost creativity and productivity, while also providing a sense of community, social support, and mental wellbeing. In a traditional office setting, employees are often siloed in their own cubicles or offices, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Coworking spaces provide a more collaborative environment where people can interact and socialise. Coworking spaces are changing the way we work. The flexible and collaborative working environments they provide, are ideal for entrepreneurs and freelancers who want to boost their productivity and reduce stress levels.  Coworking environments are designed to help people get the most out of their work day. The shared working environments offer a variety of amenities and services that can help to create a more relaxed and productive work environment. Coworking spaces are providing a new way for professionals to connect with experts and access resources. By bringing people together in a shared workspace, coworking environments are creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. This is changing the way people work by making it easier for them to access the expertise and resources they need to be successful. At Unicorn Studios, we're all about coworking. Our coworking space is designed to promote collaboration and creativity, and we know it's making a positive difference to our members productivity. Coworking at Unicorn Studios is changing the way people work by providing a creative and collaborative environment for like-minded professionals, from different industries. The studio is equipped with everything you need from a workspace, including high-speed WiFi, a dedicated phone booth and meeting areas. If you're considering making the switch from working at home, or a traditional, (more expensive) office setting, our coworking space may be the perfect solution for you. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - A dedicated space to work, which can be important for focus and productivity - Opportunities to socialise and network with other professionals - A sense of community that can be lacking when working from home - The flexibility to work from anywhere --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/is-coworking-worth-the-money ### Title: Is coworking worth the money? ### Page ID: 2177639 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## How much does coworking cost? ## Why are coworking spaces worth the investment? ### Reduced isolation ### Increased productivity  ### Reduced stress ### Collaboration and exchange of ideas ### Improved communication ### Increased job satisfaction ### Increased motivation ## Coworking at Unicorn Studios ### Further reading: ### Member's Stories ### Members ### Remote working ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Some people swear by the benefits of coworking, highlighting the increased creativity and collaboration that comes from working in a shared space. Others find that it's not worth the extra cost, preferring to work from home or a traditional office. Coworking has become a popular option for modern professionals, but is it really worth the money? The benefits of coworking outweigh the cost for many freelancers and remote workers. There's no doubt that coworking can be an additional expense. But for many freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers, the benefits of coworking outweigh the cost. From the social interaction to the increased productivity, coworking can be a great investment for those who are looking to get the most out of their workday. The average cost of a hot desk globally is around £173 per month, while the average cost of a coworking hot desk in the UK is £202. These costs vary depending on the amenities, location, and provider. For many freelancers and small business owners, the costs of coworking can be a barrier to entry. After all, why pay to work in a shared space when you can work from home for free? However, a coworking space may be worth the investment for freelancers and small business owners who are looking for a place to work without the cost of a traditional office space. While coworking spaces may be more expensive than working from home, they can offer a number of benefits that can be worth the cost: Working from home can be isolating, whilst coworking spaces offer a place where people can collaborate and exchange ideas. They can also help people to socialise and network with other professionals. Coworking spaces can be a great way to increase productivity and connect with other professionals.  There is a growing body of evidence that suggests coworking can lead to increased productivity. When working from home it can be very easy to get distracted by domestic tasks or family responsibilities. In a shared workspace, members are surrounded by other professionals who are there to work. Being in close proximity to others, helps individuals be more productive and engaged than working in their home environments.  Working in an office can be stressful, but coworking spaces offer a less formal environment that can help to reduce stress levels.  A recent study found that people who work in coworking spaces report lower levels of stress than those who work in traditional offices. This is likely due to the increased flexibility and autonomy that coworking spaces offer. When selecting a coworking space, you can choose your own environment and create the conditions that are conducive to your productivity and well-being.  Coworking spaces provide the opportunity for collaboration and exchange of ideas, which can be beneficial for freelancers and entrepreneurs. By working alongside other professionals, they can gain insights and knowledge that they may not have been able to access on their own.  In a traditional office setting, employees are often siloed off into their own cubicles or offices, which can make it difficult to collaborate on projects or simply bounce ideas off one another. But in a coworking space, everyone is working side by side in an open environment, which makes it easy to strike up a conversation and get feedback from fellow coworkers. When working from home, communicating via a screen every day can feel very isolating. However, in coworking spaces, there are opportunities for impromptu conversations and collaboration. Many people report that they enjoy their jobs more when they work in an environment that is conducive to collaboration and communication. By working in a coworking space, individuals can avoid some of the frustrations that can come with working in a more restrictive office setting. Job satisfaction is another potential benefit of coworking that may make the financial investment worthwhile. In a coworking space, you can enjoy the company of other professionals while still having the independence to work on your own projects. This can lead to a more stimulating, satisfying work life. A recent survey found that people who work in coworking spaces are more satisfied with their work than those who don't. Its authors say that the increased satisfaction is due to the various benefits that coworking spaces offer, such as a greater degree of independence, and a more flexible, relaxed working environment. While some people may feel that working from home is more cost-effective, there are many benefits to coworking spaces. One of the biggest advantages is the increased motivation that comes from being around other people. When you're working by yourself, it's easy to get distracted or lose focus. But when you're in a coworking space, you're surrounded by people who are also working hard and striving to achieve their goals. This can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the day. We offer a coworking environment that is great value for money, that is conducive to creativity, increased motivation, and productivity. It is a relaxed and enjoyable place to work, with great interaction and collaboration amongst our members. If you're looking for an affordable way to increase your productivity and networking opportunities, joining our coworking space may be a good option for you. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/9-pros-and-cons-of-working-remotely-from-home ### Title: 9 Pros and cons of working remotely from home ### Page ID: 2177800 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Remote Working ## The pros of working remotely from home ### No commute or traffic jams ### Save money on office lunches and travel ### Create your own schedule ### Work in your pyjamas  ### The ability to avoid office distractions ### Avoid office politics ### Boost your productivity ### More time for exercise and hobbies ### Reduced stress levels ## The cons of working remotely from home ### Limited workspace at home ### Isolation and lack of face-to-face communication ### Not having access to company resources ### Losing productivity due to distractions ### Increased risk of burnout ### Difficulty getting promotions or raises ### Lack of job security ### Potential conflict with family members ### Increased stress levels ## Remote working at Unicorn Studios ### Further reading: ### Member's Stories ### Members ### Remote working ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration There are many pros to working remotely from home. You can save on commuting costs, have a more flexible schedule, and avoid office distractions. However, there are also quite a few cons, such as not having a dedicated workspace, and finding it difficult to separate work from home life.  It can be difficult to separate work from home life There are many pros to working from home as technology has made it easier to connect with people and resources from anywhere in the world. Working from home has its advantages, especially when it comes to avoiding traffic. There is no more sitting in a car for hours on end, or dealing with the stress of a commute. For people who live in areas with heavy traffic, this can be a huge time-saver.  Traveling to and from work can be a significant expense, especially if you live in a city with high transportation costs. One of the pros of working remotely is that you can eliminate this expense by working from home.  Office lunches can take a sizeable chunk of your monthly income. When working remotely, there is no need to buy lunch out every day, therefore it is possible to save a lot of money on food costs.  Working remotely and being able to create your own schedule is great for people who have family responsibilities and other personal commitments that require a more flexible way of working. A traditional 9-5 work day, is not always compatible with the demands of modern life. The thought of being able to wear what you want, and not having to worry about buying expensive clothes that you'll only wear a few times a year can be really appealing.  Working from home in your pyjamas might sound really attractive, but without the office clothes, some people feel less confident in their business interactions. Whilst others miss having the opportunity to dress up. Another benefit of being a remote worker, is that you can avoid office distractions, such as colleagues chatting or loud noises. This can help you focus more on your work and be more productive. Home working isn't always easy, you may find other causes of distraction such as pets and kids requiring food and attention. Working remotely from home can be a great way to avoid office politics. You can steer clear of office gossip at the water cooler, and the latest work-life drama. This leaves you free to focus on work without distractions. However, working remotely can be lonely, and it's possible to miss out on important office dynamics that could advance your career. If you are self-motivated and disciplined, working from home can be a great way to boost productivity, away from the noise and interruptions of the office. If you are fortunate to have a dedicated workspace, you can eliminate distractions and create a more focused work environment, that is optimised for productivity.  One of the biggest pros of remote working is that you have more time for exercise and hobbies. Commuting to and from work, can eat up a lot of time. Instead, this time can be better spent on a workout or a hobby. If you are looking for a healthier lifestyle, working from home, can be a great option, as it is easier to take regular breaks throughout the day, and stay active. You'll just need to be careful you don't get too distracted. Working from home can be a great way to reduce stress levels. It eliminates the hassle and cost of a commute, which can be a major cause of stress. Remote workers also have more control over their environment, and work schedules. They can reduce stress by taking regular breaks from work activities, and can take time to exercise. There are some cons to consider before deciding to work from home. Some find that after a while they prefer to return to their office or find a local coworking space where they can work remotely. While there are many pros to working from home, one major con for many is the lack of dedicated workspace. You might find yourself awkwardly balancing your laptop on the breakfast bar or sharing the sofa with children and pets. It can be difficult to stay focused and be productive when you're working in a cramped space or sitting in areas that are being used by other members of the family. Having a dedicated area in the home that can be used as an office is essential. One of the biggest drawbacks of working remotely from home, is that it can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.  Communicating with your co-workers virtually isn't the same as the face-to-face interactions that you have in a traditional office setting. It may also be more difficult to access support from your team, or help with a project. Taking time out to talk with friends or family members whilst working from home can reduce the sense of isolation. However, it is worth considering joining a coworking space where you can interact with other like-minded professionals. Working remotely can limit your access to the resources available when at work premises. This can include things like office equipment, printers, and meeting rooms. You may need to invest in some additional equipment, like a good computer and reliable internet connection, to be able to work effectively from home. Without the structure of an office environment, it can be easy to get sidetracked without a set schedule. If you are easily distracted, working from home can make it harder to focus, stay motivated, and be productive. There are lots of potential distractions like the TV, household chores, and family members requiring your attention. This can lead to a loss of productivity and it may even impact the quality of your work. Working from home has been associated with an increased risk of burnout, as it can be easy to work longer hours when you're not in the traditional 9-5 office setting. It may be difficult to switch-off from work and allow work to encroach on your personal time. This can lead to an unhealthy work-life balance. If you're looking to move up the corporate ladder, working remotely from home may not be the best option. Many employers are hesitant to promote or give raises to employees who they don't see in person on a regular basis. It can be harder to build relationships with your colleagues and superiors when you're not working side-by-side with them. If you're content with your current position and salary, working from home can be a great option; but if you're hoping for a big promotion or raise, you may want to consider a more traditional office setting. In today's economy, job security is a major concern for many workers. With more and more companies downsizing or even going out of business, workers are increasingly worried about their future. The nature of some remote working contracts, means that it may be easier for employers to let you go without notice. If your company goes out of business or decides to downsize, you could be out of a job. Since you are not working in an office, you may have a harder time networking and making contacts that can help you secure a new one. One potential downside of working from home is that it can create conflict with family members. If you're used to having set office hours, working from home can be disruptive as it can conflict with other family member's schedules. If you don't have a dedicated workspace, it can be difficult to find the quiet and focus you need to get work done.  Working remotely from home can be a great way to reduce stress but for some people the isolation from colleagues, feeling like you are always "on call",  and difficulty with creating a healthy work-life balance, can significantly increase stress levels.  It is important to find ways of alleviating the stress. One prospective solution could be to remote work at a coworking studio. If you are finding it difficult to achieve a healthy work-life balance, are less productive, and missing the social interactions, then remote working at Unicorn Studios could be a great option for you. We offer very flexible, shared workspaces, access to like-minded professionals, high-speed WiFi, and many of the facilities available in traditional offices. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/what-are-the-benefits-and-drawbacks-of-working-from-home ### Title: What are the benefits and drawbacks of working from home? ### Page ID: 2178136 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Remote Working ## The benefits of working from home ### 1\. Reduced costs ### 2\. A more flexible work schedule ### 3\. Reduced stress levels ### 4\. Increased creativity ### 5\. Reduced environmental impact ### 6\. Improved productivity ### 7\. Choice of work environment ### 8\. More freedom ## The drawbacks of working from home ### 1\. Increased isolation ### 2\. Limited networking opportunities ### 3\. Reduced productivity ### 4\. Increased susceptibility to cybercrime ### 5\. Lack of collaboration opportunities ### 6\. Reduced communication efficiency ### 7\. Lack of support from an employer  ### 8\. Reduced work benefits  ### 9\. Poor work-life balance ## The benefits of remote working at Unicorn Studios ### Further reading: ### Member's Stories ### Members ### Remote working ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration What are the benefits and drawbacks of working from home? People choose to work from home for many reasons but what are the benefits and drawbacks? Is it really as effective and productive as working in an office? There are a number of benefits to working from home that can positively affect a person's job satisfaction and improve their work-life balance. Working from home can reduce the costs associated with commuting. With fuel prices and public transport sharply increasing, this can be a welcome reduction in expenditure.  Saving on office lunches, and other expenses associated with working away from home can really help to balance the budget. Especially when rising inflation has stretched everyone's expenses over the last year. Working from home offers a more flexible work schedule that can be tailored to fit their lifestyle and commitments.  Remote workers are able to work when it's convenient to them, rather than follow the traditional 9-5 schedule. A working pattern that can accommodate other responsibilities such as child care and looking after elderly relatives, can be really beneficial. Remote employment can make people feel like they have more control over their own time, such as taking breaks whenever they need them and adjusting their schedule to suit their lifestyle. Working from home can be a great way to reduce stress levels. They don't have to worry about the commute or being stuck in their workplace all day. Some people benefit from not being confined to an office. Working from home means that they don't have to work alongside noisy and disruptive co-workers, which creates a more relaxed and less stressful work life. This can increase productivity, improve focus, and lead to a sense of achievement. Research from Owl Labs shows that remote workers are generally happier and experience greater creativity than their office based colleagues. The freedom and flexibility that working at home provides, allows them to break away from their regular work routines and explore new ideas. This gives them the opportunity to think differently and develop innovative solutions to work related problems. People who work from home are able to take more breaks, and work at their own pace. This can provide them with a new perspective which enhances their imagination and inspiration. Working from home can help reduce a person's environmental impact in several ways: Without the demands of a commute, remote workers can get more done in a day than they would if they were in an office environment. If they are fortunate enough to have their own home office, there can be fewer distractions than in an office environment. This can be more conducive to concentration and increased productivity. While some people find that they are most productive in an office setting, others benefit from tailoring their work environment. Remote workers who are based at home can choose to design their own work spaces to make them fit their individual requirements. This may include adding spot lighting, choosing comfortable furniture, or playing background music. When working from home, many remote workers enjoy greater freedom to set their own hours. This can enable them to allocate time for exercise, hobbies, and socialising with family and friends. Enjoying more freedom to work in a way that fits their lifestyle can create greater job satisfaction. There are a number of drawbacks to working from home that can impact job performance and work satisfaction.  One of the main drawbacks to working from home all week is isolation. People can struggle to feel part of a team because they are disconnected from their colleagues.  Some remote workers feel lonely because they miss the interactions with their co-workers and are not able to socialise with them so easily outside of work. In an office environment it is much easier to meet up over lunch or after work for drinks. Many people find it difficult to network when they are working from home. With the isolation of remote work, it can be difficult to build meaningful professional relationships with colleagues that could enhance their employment and promotion prospects. Being based at home can prevent them from attending social events or participating in other activities that could lead to new business opportunities.  Working from home can have a negative impact on productivity as it can be difficult to stay focused when they are in their home environment. There are often distractions that can interfere with work such as the TV, pets, or children playing in the background. Not having the structure of an office setting can make it harder to stay productive and on task, especially if there is no dedicated place to work.  People who work from home are vulnerable to cyber-attacks as they are generally not protected by the security measures that are in place in office premises. Cyber-attacks can result in the theft of sensitive information such as clients' personal details, finances, business research, and new products in development. These can be very difficult and costly to recover. One of the biggest limitations to remote working can be the lack of collaboration opportunities. Many remote workers find it difficult to collaborate with one another without being in the same physical space. When working from home, remote workers are limited to collaborating with their co-workers via email, phone, or video conferencing. This can make it harder to build relationships with colleagues and make working together on joint projects more difficult. Due to the increased distance between remote workers and their managers, communication can be slower and less effective than when employees are located in the same work place.  They may miss out on important information that could affect the quality of their work. Many employers are not providing the necessary support for employees who are working from home. This can include everything from technical support to mental health resources. Without this support, remote workers may not be as productive as they would in an office setting. When employees work from home, they can miss out on important workplace benefits like social interaction, mentorship opportunities, and access to company resources. Remote workers can also lack some of the work benefits enjoyed by office-based colleagues. People who work from home may have different contracts that offer less bonuses, limit annual leave, have reduced private health insurance, and other perks.  One of the biggest drawbacks to working from home is that is can be difficult to maintain a good work-life balance. It is easy to let work encroach on leisure activities and time usually spent with family, which can cause arguments and resentment.  Despite the freedom to set their own schedules, surveys show that people working from home tend to work longer hours, take reduced breaks, and exercise less, which can have a significant impact on their health. There are many benefits to working at Unicorn Studios, if it is difficult to be productive when working at home or you are feeling isolated away from your colleagues. We have all the advantages of a modern office coupled with a thriving community of professionals who enjoy collaborating and socialising. We offer very flexible membership packages that can be easily tailored to your individual circumstances.  - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - Eliminating the need to commute can save fuel and reduce emissions. - A reduction in the use of paper and other traditional office materials. - Decreased wear and tear on equipment. - The ability to control the amount of waste they produce by recycling and composting. - Reduced energy consumption (business premises can consume a considerable amount of power). - Reduction in their carbon footprint by choosing green energy sources of power to run their home office. --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/11-reasons-why-remote-working-is-effective-for-professionals ### Title: 11 reasons why remote working is effective for professionals ### Page ID: 2181276 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Remote Working ## 1\. Create an ideal work environment ## 2\. Control over their work schedule ## 3\. Advances in technology ## 4\. No daily commute ## 5\. Work from anywhere ## 6\. No need for face-to-face meetings ## 7\. Flexible working  ## 8\. Improved work-life balance ## 9\. Greater productivity ## 10\. A greater sense of independence ## 11\. Sharing of work files and documents ## Remote working at Unicorn Studios for professionals ### Further reading: ### Member's Stories ### Members ### Remote working ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration 11 reasons why remote working is effective for professionals There are many reasons why remote working is effective for professionals, including flexible work schedules, increased productivity, reduced travel costs, and the ability to better manage a healthy work-life balance. Remote workers can create their ideal work environment One of the main reasons that remote working is so effective, is that it allows employees to design their own workspace, and create their own ideal work environment. If a remote worker is someone who loves peace and quiet, they can work from home without distractions. Or if they're someone who likes to be surrounded by people, they can head to a coffee shop or coworking space. Many employees prefer working in an environment that is conducive to their individual needs and preferences. By allowing employees to define their own workspace, they are more likely to be productive and fulfilled in their job. The ability to control their own work schedule is a key reason why remote working is so effective for professionals. If they have a project that requires concentrated effort, they can block out a few hours in their day to work on it, without having to worry about being interrupted by colleagues or meetings. If they need to take a break during the day to take care of personal errands or appointments, they can do so without having to ask for permission from their boss. With advances in technology, there's no need to be tied to a physical office space. As technology advances, more and more employees are finding that they can be just as productive working from home as they can in a physical office space. In fact, with the technological advancement in monitoring software, the number of employers now offering remote work, is steadily increasing.  For many people, the daily commute is a source of stress and frustration. Avoiding the commute by working remotely can be a huge relief and can make the workday more productive. As professionals are not wasting time commuting to and from their place of work, they have more time and energy to focus on other activities. As long as there is a fast internet connection, remote workers can stay easily connected with clients and co-workers from anywhere. Whilst some choose to work from home, others prefer a coffee shop or local coworking studio. They can select an environment that is most conducive to their way of working or most suitable for their personal circumstances. This can be a great benefit for professionals who need to travel for work, or who want to live in a different location beyond the commuter belt.  Working remotely can be effective in reducing the need for face-to-face meetings. This can help save time and improve communication among team members as it is far easier to arrange a meeting on-line than it is to organise one in person. It is also far more cost effective. When managed correctly, remote teams can be more productive and efficient. Remote working allows professionals to have a greater degree of flexibility in their schedules and manage their own time. This can be a huge benefit for those who have additional responsibilities or commitments outside of work, such as pursuing personal interests or caring for family members. It is important, however, to ensure that deadlines are met. Some remote workers struggle to stay on track, without the structured environment of a traditional office and this can reduce their effectiveness.  Remote working can provide professionals with a better work-life balance, which can lead to higher levels of motivation and engagement, as well as a greater sense of job satisfaction. Remote working can help improve work-life balance by giving professionals more freedom when it comes to how they spend their time away from work. This can allow them more time for relaxation, recreation, and leisure activities outside of work. As remote workers have more control over their work environments, it can enable higher focus on work activities and greater productivity. Being able to work in an environment that suits ones needs is generally less distracting than an office environment with all its noise and interruptions.  Studies have also shown that when employees are able to manage their own work schedules it can increase their efficiency, and ability to work across multiple projects concurrently. Remote working can provide a sense of independence and freedom since they are not bound by geographical constraints or time differences. They can choose to work overnight or weekends, freeing up time for other commitments during the day or mid-week. There are a number of benefits to sharing work files and documents remotely, including increased efficiency and productivity. When workers are able to access files from anywhere, they can more easily collaborate with colleagues and communicate more effectively. They don't have to spend valuable time commuting to their work premises to access the information they require. At Unicorn Studios, we believe that remote working can be an effective way for professionals to work in a relaxed and friendly environment that encourages efficiency. We have a variety of resources available to help our members stay productive while working remotely. These include a phone booth for business calls and video conferencing, a meeting room, flexible workspaces and the ability to collaborate with other professionals. We have a variety of membership packages, that can suit most freelance business needs. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/new-year-new-unicorn ### Title: New Year New Unicorn! ### Page ID: 2340736 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## Sharing New Year's resolutions ## New Year's resolutions for coworkers ### Reflect on past successes and challenges ### Show appreciation for each other  ### Celebrate individual achievements ### Respect each other's ways of working ### Offer help and support to other coworkers ### Encourage creativity and innovation ### Have fun while working together ### Listen to each other ### Take on new challenges ## Unicorn Studios Members' Resolutions ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration As we begin the New Year, it's the perfect time to reflect on our personal and professional goals and create a plan for how to achieve them. At Unicorn Studios, we foster an environment of collaboration and support among our coworkers. We like to encourage each other to set goals and take on new challenges throughout the year. It's great to be able to celebrate individual successes together! The New Year is the perfect time to reflect on our personal and professional goals. Sharing New Year’s resolutions with fellow coworkers can be a great opportunity to build relationships. Listening to what people say about their successes and struggles can foster mutual understanding and be a valuable source of inspiration and motivation. It can also help you gain a better perspective on the goals you are trying to achieve. When you invite others to contribute their ideas and perspectives, it can make personal resolutions more achievable. Being accountable to others and receiving encouragement is often morale boosting and motivating. In coworking studios, more experienced freelancers and business owners may be able to advise on practical steps that could make your goals more achievable. The New Year is a great time to reflect on successes and challenges from the past year and set goals for the upcoming one. One great way to help each other to achieve New Year's resolutions is to share ideas and gain inspiration. Instead of setting unrealistic goals for yourself that are hard to keep, form collective goals and resolutions that will make your work life more enjoyable, and develop a shared sense of purpose. Showing appreciation for other coworkers is an important part of creating a positive work environment. Taking the time to recognise each other's skills and achievements is essential for cultivating mutual respect and encouraging collaboration. It is also an opportunity to learn from each other, and build on existing skills. Creating ways to celebrate individual achievements helps build morale, is highly motivating and develops a happy working atmosphere.  When someone has completed a new project or seen success with their business, it's a great time to recognise their hard work. This can be as simple as voicing your congratulations, or grabbing a celebratory drink after work. Coworking spaces tend to attract people from various professions and backgrounds, each with distinct working habits. Making a resolution to respect each others’ working patterns, will create a more enjoyable work environment. It is important to understand that what works for one member may not work for another. Working in a coworking studio requires flexibility. One of the best New Year's resolutions that coworkers can make is to provide support and assistance to each other. Many freelancers, and remote workers join coworking spaces because they want to collaborate, and interact with like-minded professionals.  Offering help and support to fellow coworkers, can strengthen relationships and open up opportunities for future collaborations. It can also help build a strong sense of community. The start of a new year is the perfect time to set some resolutions that encourage creativity and innovation. It can be lonely being a solo entrepreneur so be prepared to offer your time to brainstorm ideas and share your knowledge with other coworkers. Having the opportunity to do some creative thinking is a valuable asset for any business and it could lead to some innovative breakthroughs. Some coworking studios may be able to provide dedicated areas and resources for collaborating and sharing ideas. By encouraging creativity and innovation, coworking studios will create an enjoyable environment in which to work and build a strong community. Creating an environment where people can have fun together while working is essential for coworking studios. It helps to strengthen relationships, develop collaboration and increase productivity. Making a New Year's resolution to organise regular activities that are designed to bring people together such as board game nights, quizzes, and shared meals will help encourage this. Having fun together can significantly improve workplace morale and provide an environment where people look forward to coming into work. One of the most important New Year's resolutions for coworkers is to learn how to listen to each other. Listening means being engaged with what others are saying, taking into consideration everyone's point of view before arriving at a conclusion.  It can be easy to get swept up in your own thoughts and interests, but it's important to take the time to really listen and understand each other. Meaningful conversations can deepen relationships and make future collaborations more effective.  By listening to each other, we can discover opportunities that wouldn't have been available otherwise. If everyone feels heard and respected in a coworking setting, it can create a supportive environment that encourages collaboration. Collaboration is key in the coworking environment and it's important for all members to have the opportunity to work together on larger projects. New year’s resolutions that centre around taking on new challenges can bring coworkers closer and expand their skillsets. Whether it's creating content, coding, or working with a team to release a product, embracing new challenges as a group can help foster communication and relationships between members. It helps to develop an environment, where coworkers can take risks, and develop their skillsets whilst being supported and mentored by others. At Unicorn Studios our members have different thoughts about creating personal New Year's resolutions. Some don't see the benefit whilst others enjoy setting goals for the coming year. However, as a community we will build on past successes by listening, collaborating and socialising with one another, celebrating individual achievements, sharing our knowledge and providing support.  If you are a freelancer, solo entrepreneur, or remote worker who would benefit from being part of a strong, supportive community get in touch! - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-david-holyoake ### Title: Meet the Members: David Holyoake ### Page ID: 2373414 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### What work accomplishment are you most proud of? ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **When working at home what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### **Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster?** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month’s "Meet the Member" features indie games developer, snooker player, and three ball juggler David, who has a very sweet tooth. Hi, I'm David and I am finally realising my dream of being an indie games developer. For most of my life I worked in engineering, in a metal work/machine operating environment This didn't bother me too much as I just got on with it, but it just wasn't what I wanted to do. Since leaving school I have taken many computer courses in various languages and areas to try and get into I.T. But never actually worked in this area. Since the late 70s (yep, I am that old!) I have been tinkering with writing games and apps with whatever unique and amazing ideas my inquisitive and creative little mind can conjure up and some of these (unique!) creations made it out in the real world. In 2018, my wife and I sold our South London home for a better life in Frinton-on-Sea and I can now concentrate my global domination take ov...errm, sorry, concentrate all my energy on my little game dev. business full time. As much as I love working from home, it does have its distractions. Such as the kitchen being right next to my office. I have a sweet tooth. So coming to Unicorn Studios is a great mental break from the week where I can feel, and sometimes hear :-) the creative and talented energy buzzing around from the other members to carry me through the day. I also have interest/hobbies in psychology and the mind, magic (my dad was in the Magic Circle), fitness, snooker, art and the making of films. My first job was in a metal work factory where I went to Wandsworth college one day a week to study Fabrication and Sheet Metal Work. This apprenticeship was for 4 years. I was in the top area of the class so I used to (sometimes!) have the day off and not go to college. By the time the report got back to my employer a week later I just said I had a cold or something. My grades didn't suffer as I used to help others with their technical drawing. I used the days off to tinker on the computer and learn assembly language. Or maybe play games a little! Apart from the factory making bespoke metal parts for other companies, there main products were anodised giftware that sold in Harrods. My most proud work accomplishment was when I created a fitness app for Android mobile. This took me three years whilst holding down a full time job. The app had around 150 3D animations. I look back on this app and I am really proud of what I achieved within my circumstances. I need very little sleep and feel a lot better on around six hours of sleep. I usually go to bed around 12am and get up around 7am. Sometimes, I set the alarm for 6:30, get up and go for a 40 min walk around the block and see the sun rise over the sea :-) , get back and get a couple of hours work in by 10am. Most of the time I wake up naturally (with no alarm) early, so this is my healthy sleeping hours that work for me. If I force myself to get eight hours, I have a bad day. I have a sweet tooth so anything like biscuits, sweets, fudge (ooooh fudge, yummy) that has already been opened, will disintegrate within a nano second. They are hard to come by though, as I try not to have them in the house. Oh, and my lovely wife make a few cakes now and again, so, yep, cake mixture and cake tasting is the order of the day as well. One of my favourite memories from last year was a boat trip (with a meal) on a little boat up the river Orwell that I got for my wife's Birthday. It was a little chilly in July but just relaxing with my wife and a lovely meal and drink for a few hours was really enjoyable.  It will be very tight as I am a few months behind on my current game but I was intending to demo a game at EGX Excel London. One year it will happen. One Year. :-)   What I will probably end up doing though that I have not done before is indoor wall climbing. It used to be that I could do Tweeky (the robot) from 'Buck Rogers in the 25th Century' but It isn't that impressive. So don't ask! I can however juggle three balls and I could juggle three clubs a few years ago. To be able to do amazing slight of hand magic (coins and cards) confidently and wow my audience. Oh, and to be able to pot snooker balls regularly. **Peter Molyneux** - a game developer who I admire and who I can pitch my ultimate game idea to and wow him. **Stan Lee** - he was just infectious with his passion for his Marvel creations and I would love to have him to talk to. **Robert Green** - American author on strategy, power and psychology I have an interesting theory to pose to him and I would find him so interesting to talk to. A tiny unicorn as a giant hamster is maybe possible! if a hamster ate and ate and ate until he was massive, he would be a giant. OK, maybe not!. However, a tiny unicorn is magical. And I just love having magic in my life. Plus, my wife loves Unicorns :-) - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-ali-constanti ### Title: Meet the Members: Ali Constanti ### Page ID: 2376161 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **When working at home what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### **Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster?** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features Ali Constanti, a multinational teacher, who dreamed of becoming a rock and roll star before she reluctantly decided to get a 'proper job'. Until recently, I was a secondary Head of English. During the pandemic, like many, I was plunged into unknown waters and found myself leading a team of teachers delivering remote lessons to a large cohort of bewildered teens. I loved it. It was hugely challenging, but I developed skills and expertise to give me the confidence to break out of the ever-more-challenging classroom and into the world of remote tutoring. So, that’s what I do. I create teaching resources and teach classes in Singapore as well as students in Spain and the UK. I knew the one thing I’d miss about teaching in school would be my fellow grown-ups so decided to investigate co-working options. Unicorn was only the second place I tried but I knew right away I didn’t need to look any further. After graduating, the plan was to become a rock and roll star. So, although I earned a few quid gigging in and around London, I paid the bills by working in a busy restaurant in Baker Street, waiting tables. It was a fair bit later that I reluctantly decided to get a ‘proper job’ (my parents’ perspective) and train to be a teacher. That was the end of the dream. I think I’m probably most proud of the many plays and productions I’ve put on over the years. It’s quite a complex and challenging process to put a show on the stage but the project manager in me relishes the level of organisation involved! Gosh – just realised I’m neither! Like to be tucked up early (10.30ish) but I really do struggle to wake up. Can’t speak for at least half an hour and if my husband didn’t bring me a cuppa every morning, I might well just stay there. That’s terrible isn’t it? I have developed a terrible habit of falling down a Twitter rabbit hole at about 3am. I’m working on it. My girls really think I should learn to enjoy things. Any suggestions? I have a terrible memory and, to be honest, 2022 wasn’t the best of years for me in lots of ways.  I think it might’ve been when my youngest (17) received her A level results. We took a bit of a gamble entering her early but, thankfully, it paid off.  In 2023 my plan is to live more and work less. I think that might be a challenge and I’ve never been any good at it but now my three girls are pretty independent, I’m going to try and focus more on me. I’m thinking of a city break, on my own. I’ve been supporting my parents recently. My mum is struggling through her sixth year with Alzheimer’s and, part of my reason for leaving teaching, was to look after her and my dad for a couple of days each week. It turns out I’m quite a decent carer. I never would have guessed I would be and was pretty surprised to discover I wasn’t at all bad at it.  I think world politics. Is that a bit dull? I’ve become far more engaged in politics in recent years (thanks to Twitter really) but now find there are many holes in my knowledge. **Shakespeare** – would love to watch his quill speeding across his parchment. I’d keep interrupting him though. He was long dead when he was my age! **Dara O’Briain** – reckon he’d be good fun to be around, and I could just listen to him talk all day. **Jodie Comer** – a hugely talented actor and I reckon she’d be inspirational. I imagine her to be no-nonsense, down to earth, friendly, interesting and funny. The perfect colleague. I’ll have to go with the giant hamster – everyone believes in hamsters. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-carl-harris ### Title: Meet the Members: Carl Harris ### Page ID: 2377332 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **When working at home what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### **Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster?** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features artist and illustrator Carl Harris, who thrives on interaction, has a unique hidden talent, and loves relaxing in his Jim Jams eating leftovers. I’m an artist and illustrator living and working in Ipswich, Suffolk. I graduated from Kent Institute of Art and Design in 1994 with a Degree in Illustration. I specialise mainly in mark-making. Pencil on paper, acrylic on wood and linocut prints; the drawn image – expressed by a mark, smudge, messy mistake or just a pure pencil line – excites me. I’m fascinated by visual storytelling, drawing a narrative, venturing into fairy tale, make-believe, the unknown and just simple day-dreaming. Over the last 13 years I’ve been creating a visual storyline around Catboy: the boy with the cat shadow. It was inspired initially by my mischievous cat Harrison and my playful nephew Austin. My own childhood has also provided a more general theme to my work. I was a cheeky young boy, who dreamt of being an astronaut and building his own robot. I liked to go for adventures on long summer days, climb trees, skim stones and cycle fast down country lanes. I want to portray this sense of youth, adventure and discovery in my work. I come to Unicorn Studios because it’s nice to create with other people, I thrive on the interaction. The good stuff happens when I’m around excited, like minded people. Paper round, 10 years old. Loved it. Lots of life learning skills, getting up at 6.am every morning, delivering, chatting with people, good work ethic. Funny enough 40 years on I’m a Sainsbury’s Delivery driver doing the same thing but now I use my work to fuel my creative side. I get to see the best of Suffolk . The Wildlife inspires me. Working on one particular . “The Suffolk Road Runner” The daft Pheasant, beautiful bird but so stupid Sold a bear drawing at The Affordable Art Fair, London for £2500. The Gallery called me with so much excitement…Chuffed to bits as I didn’t expect when sitting in my studio to decide to draw a massive bear with a young boy juggling next to him would warrant such money. Proper chuffed. Early. I do grown up stuff early, but now turned 50, quite happy to be in bed by 10pm listening to the radio and dozing off. Being in my Jim Jams all day eating leftovers and watching jet fighter you tube videos. Always wanted to be a Jet Fighter Being back on the island Thassos in Greece favourite destination after all the shit that’s happened in the world . golden beach floating 500 yds off shore. I swim and I swim as far out as possible to float and relax, no noise. Total switch off.  Learn to tap dance. I used to Break Dance as a 12 year old when the ’Rock Steady Crew’ had a hit way back in the 80’s. Dancing, when I’m cooking in the Kitchen and a banging tune comes on, I love to dance…give me a beat and I’ll improvise….but I’m known to light a fart at the weekend. Jet Fighter Pilot. Get goosebumps when I hear a jet fighter fly overhead. **Norman Rockwell** - my absolute best ever, favourite illustrator of the Saturday Evening post and a pure draughtsman of skill and story telling. **Micky Flanagan** - we’d be giggling all day and having a great chat. Proper giant hamster cuddling everyone and having a nice time. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/the-advantages-of-starting-a-new-business-in-a-coworking-studio ### Title: The advantages of starting a new business in a coworking studio ### Page ID: 2411967 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## Potential for growth and development ## Business opportunities and visibility ## Collaboration with other entrepreneurs ## Cost savings ## Flexible working ## Increased productivity ## Access to resources ## Professional networking opportunities ## Support from coworkers ## Social events and activities ## Work-life balance ## Establishing a new business at Unicorn Studios ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration The advantages of starting a new business in a coworking studio Coworking studios offer entrepreneurs many advantages when starting a new business from reduced overheads to increased visibility. With flexible working, and professional networking opportunities, there is great potential for growth and business development within a coworking space. Being a new business owner can feel lonely and overwhelming, but coworking studios provide a supportive environment where entrepreneurs can thrive and not just survive. When you are first starting out in business, there are so many options available that it can be difficult to decide what direction to take. A lot of time and resources can be wasted trying to figure it all out. One of the advantages of starting a business in a coworking space is that there is the freedom to experiment by trial and error without risking too many resources (financial and otherwise).  New entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from other coworkers' success stories and gain advice on tackling challenging projects. This kind of collaboration can open up new opportunities and provide unique solutions, that may not have been discovered sat on their couch at home. Experimenting in the early stages with different products and services enables new business owners to develop their skills, discover what interests them, and find their specific niche in the market. Gaining feedback from fellow entrepreneurs along the way can help mitigate against risks, be instructive, and reassuring. If you want to start a business, a coworking studio will provide greater visibility and opportunities to establish a regular income. New business owners can network with other members and gain insights into how to make their brand stand out in a saturated marketplace. Connecting and collaborating with other entrepreneurs with similar interests can expand the scope of a business and help owners to strengthen their offerings.  Some coworking studios have a strong online presence which can help members reach a wider audience. Member profiles can be especially beneficial for those who are just starting out, as they can promote their services to a wider audience. Coworking studios offer entrepreneurs a collaborative environment, where they can exchange ideas, advice, and resources with one another. This can be invaluable when starting or expanding a business, as it helps entrepreneurs to develop new products, services, and strategies that will give their business a competitive edge. Having multiple professionals from different industries in one place provides a wonderful sounding board where ideas can be freely explored and discussed without judgement. Having external opinions can help entrepreneurs see their project from different perspectives, which can lead to valuable breakthroughs and creative solutions. Working from home can seem like a good idea initially but it can be expensive, as most people need to have a dedicated work space if they want to work productively. Purchasing all the necessary furniture and equipment for a fledgling business may seem like too much of a commitment before a business concept is proven. By sharing a communal work space, entrepreneurs can avoid paying for high overheads such as office furniture, equipment, and utilities, which can be a significant cost saving. This not only reduces the financial burden of starting a business but also allows entrepreneurs to focus their resources on other areas such as marketing and product development. Another advantage of starting a business in a coworking studio is the flexible working options. Coworking studios provide entrepreneurs with the freedom to work when and where they want, allowing them to maximise their productivity and efficiency. This flexibility allows fledgling business owners to take advantage of new opportunities as they arise, without being tied down by an inflexible office space or traditional working hours. New entrepreneurs may need to take on part-time jobs or freelance contracts until their own venture gets off the ground. Most studio spaces offer flexible packages that can be adjusted as the business develops. Starting a new business in a coworking studio can be an excellent way to increase productivity. Coworking spaces provide comfortable and productive environments that can be tailored to individual needs and provide all the facilities a new business owner may require. Flexible working encourages productivity because people are empowered to develop their own ways of working that best fit them as an individual. The work culture and restrictions in more traditional settings can stifle creativity and limit an individuals potential. Having other entrepreneurs around creates an energising atmosphere and makes it easier to stay focused while completing tasks. Since many of the people in the studio are running their own business, it's easy to start conversations and make new contacts that can help assist members on their journey. Coworking studios also provide entrepreneurs with access to a range of resources which can help them to develop their business. These resources often include super-fast WiFi, specialised equipment, meeting rooms and dedicated work spaces that may not be available if starting a business from home. The affordability and convenience of these resources in the initial stages of starting a business can be fundable to a new ventures success.  Coworking spaces provide access to other solo-entrepreneurs, and industry professionals who can offer advice and guidance on how to grow a business. Professional networking opportunities are the life-blood of most businesses and are therefore indispensable. By connecting with other entrepreneurs in the same space, new business owners can exchange ideas and resources, build relationships with potential customers or partners, and gain insight into different industries. Some coworking studios host regular events such as workshops and breakfast meet-ups which create additional opportunities for learning and meeting like-minded professionals. With these networking opportunities, entrepreneurs can create valuable connections that will help them succeed in their business. Coworkers can provide moral support and encouragement to fellow entrepreneurs who may be struggling with their business. This type of support can be vital, particularly in the early stages of a startup, as it can help to keep people motivated and focused on their goals. The supportive community in coworking studios can strengthen collaborative efforts between different business owners, resulting in creative solutions for challenging problems and a significant reduction in stress levels. Having professionals from all sorts of industry backgrounds is one of the strengths of a coworking space, as it means that members can easily gain support and advice from other people who have truly been there and have the t-shirt to prove it. Social events allow members to build meaningful connections with fellow coworkers that can benefit their business and make their work life more enjoyable. Drinks after work, going out for meals, and quizzes at the local pub, can create a strong sense of connection with fellow members and help build a strong community where people can thrive. Having a good work-life balance is essential to long-term success in any business venture. Working in a coworking environment can be especially beneficial for entrepreneurs who are juggling setting up a business with family commitments or other responsibilities, as they typically offer more flexible working hours than traditional office environments. Coworking studios offer small business owners the opportunity to work in a professional setting while still having the flexibility to manage their own schedule. Members aren't chained to their desks, they can take breaks whenever they need, set their own hours and develop their own work patterns. This creates a more relaxed and enjoyable working environment. Unicorn Studios is an ideal place to set up a new business. Located in the heart of Ipswich, close to local amenities, it offers entrepreneurs a friendly, flexible, and productive working environment. At Unicorn Studios there is a strong sense of community and regular social activities that enable members to connect with like-minded individuals, build relationships, and gain the advice and support that they need to grow their businesses. **If you are starting a new business and are looking for a supportive and inspiring environment in which to work, then Unicorn Studios is the perfect place for you.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/coffee-and-coworking-at-unicorn-studios ### Title: Coffee & Coworking at Unicorn Studios ### Page ID: 2710177 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## **An ode to coffee** ## **My coffee ritual** ## **Coffee culture**  ## **Join us for coffee and coworking!** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration What is it about drinking coffee that is so pleasurable? Why does it fit so perfectly in a coworking environment? One member shares her thoughts. I have loved the smell of coffee since a child, when a coffee roasting business opened its doors in my home town. I remember the enticing smell of freshly roasted coffee that it cleverly piped into the street to lure in its enchanted customers.  I enjoyed standing at the counter watching the paper bags being filled with a selection of little brown beans, and the pleasure of knowing that I’d get to grind them for my parents, once we got home.  I never grew tired of turning the handle and watching the beans disappear into the little drawer below. The wonderful aroma and conversion from beans to grounds seemed like magic to a young girl. If I'm truly honest a part of me is still captivated by the experience. My love of coffee is deeply rooted in the pleasure derived from those early memories. As I’ve enjoyed many cups of coffee over the years, on some unconscious level I suspect, I relive that early passion and excitement.  I have a ritual that I perform every time I arrive at Unicorn Studios. I exchange greetings with other members, take off my coat and head straight to the kitchen to grab a big yellow mug from the cupboard.  I’m focused on making my first coffee of the day before I’ve even unpacked my MacBook from its case. I stand in front of our Nespresso machine, breathing in the beautiful aroma of freshly brewed coffee as it trickles into my mug.  Breathing in the beautiful aroma of freshly brewed coffee I place my precious mug of coffee on the green square of Astro turf (we use as coasters), unpack my Mac, and begin my working day.  Sipping my coffee, chatting with my coworkers, I feel a deep sense of belonging! Grateful that I have found a friendly place to work that is a home away from home.  With my precious mug of coffee I begin my working day I know why I love coffee but why is drinking it such an important part of British culture? Is it the stimulus it provides when starting a new day, or the enjoyment of sitting in coffee shops relaxing with friends, or the times an espresso shot (or two) helps us meet a pressing deadline? For me, at least, it’s a combination of all those things.  I’m sure I’m not speaking just for myself when I say that our coffee machine and selection of coffees are much appreciated in our coworking studio.  Drinking coffee and chatting with fellow coworkers is a great way of relaxing and building relationships. But it’s also reassuring to know that a shot of coffee can help revive me, if I need some extra stimulus to knuckle down and get a task completed. If you are a freelancer or remote worker and are tired of staring at the same four walls, join us for a great mug of coffee and a friendly working environment. We have a wide variety of coffee to choose from (everyone has their favourites) so you will be spoilt for choice.  You can book a tour of the studio and a free trial day by clicking the button below. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/the-value-of-a-physical-workplace ### Title: The value of a physical workplace ### Page ID: 2796480 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## **Journey to work** ## **The limitations of Zoom** ## **Hybrid working** ## Working in a coworking space ## **Join Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration We add importance to many material things these days but have you ever considered the value of a physical workplace? I know I didn't until the events of the last few years... There is something about leaving the house each morning to go to work. Whether you walk, catch a bus, or jump in a car, the journey has a purpose, and along the way you connect with the world around you (if only on some unconscious level). During lockdown it was a novelty to be able to work from home in our pyjamas but I think for most people these days, it has lost its appeal. We need to associate with others in the real world, to separate the different aspects of our lives. It is good for our mental well being.  It did seem for a time, that connecting on Zoom with virtual colleagues would be the new normal but it can be really draining. Our brains weren’t designed to communicate in such a limited fashion. They were built to interpret body language and micro expressions in the context of our environment. Not to stare at someone’s face on a computer screen for hours on end. Many of us have chosen to make changes to our working lives. Some have adopted a hybrid working model that supposedly offers the best of both worlds (although my friends don’t enjoy it as much as they thought). Is it because at heart, most of us are creatures of habit? There can be something quite comforting about sitting at the same desk each day, with the same group of colleagues (even if some of them have some irritating habits).  With hybrid working the routines are broken and the workplace is half empty. It’s missing the usual noise and energy, as colleagues now keep different hours.  A coworking space might not be a conventional work place but it offers all of its advantages and more. I’m not actually talking about the Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, or coffee machine (but they are much appreciated).  It’s the sound of tapping keyboards, the snippets of conversations and the joyful sound of laughter as someone cracks a joke. It is the sense of camaraderie and fun that gets me out of bed on a cold, wintry morning and puts a spring in my step as I head to the Studio.  The sound of tapping keyboards and snippets of conversations Working in a coworking space is even more precious because of those countless hours I spent alone, staring at a computer screen during lockdown. But as those memories fade, I hope I never forget just how precious it is to share my workplace with other humans.  I find that being around others at Unicorn Studios can be motivating, even when performing the most mundane tasks. In fact, some members choose to do their most boring, repetitive work at the studio because its environment allows them to be focused and productive. As we pack up our laptops at the end of the day, with a sense of accomplishment, we leave our working day behind, free to go home and relax. With its creative buzz, and friendly banter, Unicorn Studios is a place where you can enjoy your work, be productive, and gain a sense of belonging. If you are feeling fed up working from home or just need a change of scene, join us at the studio. You can **book a tour and free trial day** **by clicking the button below**. We hope to see you soon!  - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/training-for-a-marathon ### Title: Training for a marathon: Our members stories... ### Page ID: 2843961 ### Content: ## James' story ## Rob's story ## The Manchester Marathon ## Training together ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Two of our studio members, James Crisp and Rob Simpson are running in the Manchester and London marathons. They regularly enjoy training together, in the beautiful Suffolk countryside. Here are their stories… **James:** It began about 12 years ago, when I wanted to do some exercise and I tried one of those workout places where they have ropes and kettle bells. I just really hated it! I was doing a fair bit of cycling at the time but it wasn’t quite what I wanted to do. We had a local running club I signed up for but I found it really tough. I was really unfit and I wasn’t enjoying it at that point. We then had our family, so I gave my sports up while our kids were young. **James:** Yeah, I was looking to exercise, and I liked the idea of running so one day I thought, ‘okay’ and just went for it. It was hard but I didn’t give up, went out again and again. I then started doing the occasional Park Run. Unfortunately I was then hit by injuries. I was in New York about four years ago around Central Park and I felt a pain whilst running. I tried to run through it and in the end it just got so bad I couldn’t run. I rested up months then got treatment at the Foot Clinic with ultrasounds. I’ve got a little bony growth on my heel bone instead of being nice and round and actually squared off at the top my Achilles tendon pushes against the square bit, especially when I run, causing inflammation. So lots of ice, lots of physio, lots of innersoles, and money spent on trainers! **James:** I also took my daughter to Park Runs for a while, which helped keep me going, it gave me another reason to push on through the injuries. I dropped down the effort a bit when running with her, as she was young, and limited to 2-5 km. It has taken the best part of three years to get to the point where I can run again properly and do running events. I’ve taken it slow getting back but I’m in a better place now. **James**: I’ve done the Kesgrave 5 km fun run a couple of times, the Martlesham 7 miles, and once I got back from injury the Cambridge, Ipswich and Colchester half marathons. In part it's all been leading up to a few weeks time and the Manchester Marathon 2023. It’s a bucket list thing for me and it’s only now actually become a possibility that I can do it. **James:** It helps clear my head. I love being out in the countryside, as it’s a way to reset, let go of stress and just have a bit of time to myself to enjoy life. I will always get home and feel better. Secondly, its the sense of accomplishment when I’ve finished, especially with running a half marathon. It’s torture doing it but it’s such a great achievement at the end. I’m proud of something I’ve done for myself and it’s all my own effort. **James:** I think it’s easy as well, I put on a pair of trainers, step out of the door, and then go! Of course, you can spend money on trainers, maybe headphones and seasonal weather gear but its worth it. As you say, the trials, the landscapes, the views, sunrises and sunsets are all great stuff. **Rob:** My journey was a little bit different, I started running in late 2020. I’ve been very lucky to stay clear of injury. My mate Stu actually asked me to do a 100 km run challenge in September that year and I said to him ‘I can barely do 5K’ – but with a lot of sweat I managed to do 60 km that month. As I began to find the running easier the social side became a big thing as it coincided with the Covid lock down at the start of 2021. Do you remember when we could only go outside and exercise with one person? It pushed me to enjoy the running as much as having a catch up chat with my fellow runners! **Rob:** During Covid it was a reason to get out of the house and then it became a good healthy habit to have. I would run with other people so it was a social thing, and like you James, I enjoy a bit of time to myself, away from work, out in the fresh air with a chance to explore and find different trail routes. It’s surprising how far you can get and the amazing things you can see around Ipswich just by running a few miles. I feel very lucky. You’ve got to put the effort in, and for that there are lots of rewards, like the unforgettable sunrises. **Rob:** Who knew we had such lovely spaces to explore within a couple of miles of my doorstep? As the last couple of years have gone on I’ve developed a routine, where I get home from work, and go straight back out the door in my running trainers saying, ‘I’ll be back in an hour’. You can tell I’m into running cos when we travel I find myself planning runs in and around weekends, family holidays and nights away, making sure I have my running kit and trainers with me. My wife and kids think I’m obsessed. **James:** The training is very hard it’s just finding the time to get out as much as you do Rob. At the moment it’s tough as I’ve got two young kids, work, and just a busy life. However, I’m really excited; I did a good training run at the weekend (20 miles), so almost full distance. It’s made me feel more positive that I’m going to complete the distance. It’s a mindset thing, if you know you’ve got to run 26.2 miles you’ll set your eyes on that target. Same as you would if you’re just running 10 km or a half marathon. I think I’ll definitely complete the marathon. I might have to walk a bit of it but at the end of the day, I’m still going the distance under my own steam. I’m not worried about time at all to be honest; I don’t care if it takes six hours. **Rob:** I ran the Manchester Marathon last year alongside my cousin-in-law Rebecca. I really wanted a goal to aim for and thought a marathon would be the ultimate one! I may have run it but I can’t really give you any tips apart from run your own race, don’t worry about everyone else around you, whether they’re running faster or slower than you, just run how your body feels. If you feel good keep going, if you are knackered slow down. I’m not gonna lie, it was a tough event, the last part of the 26.2 miles went on forever… It didn’t put me off because I’ve been lucky enough to get a ballot place at this years London Marathon in April. I’m hoping it’ll be an amazing experience and that the crowds will be fantastic, and really spur me on. I remember last year’s crowds in Manchester, cheering constantly and shouting words of encouragement, they handed out sweets, lots of biscuits, bananas and drinks. **James:** It’s always nice when the crowd shout your name, ‘come on James’, after seeing it on my bib, but it freaked me out at first. I found myself looking around for the person they knew, and then it happened again, I suddenly realised it’s me they're cheering on. **Rob:** the last part of my marathon last year I definitely got a couple of cheers, probably two or three, from people in the crowd. It gives you a little burst of enthusiasm and kicks you onward. **Rob:** We’ve been out training together which has been good, it’s part of the benefit of seeing each other during the week at Unicorn Studios. We can swap notes and compare what we have been doing each week, talk about any aches, pains or injuries and what our plans look like for the next week. It’s been great going out with you James, especially when we ran the 10 mile loops from Nacton, Levington Marina to the Felixstowe docks. I remember the mud near Trimley Marshes being horrendous, but we saw a great sunrise, which again is quite special. **Rob:** Remember when we ran together and those dogs chased after us, I remember thinking who is fastest, can I run ahead of James and let him take the fall for me! Ha, ha! **James:** It’s been really helpful just having someone to lean on and check in with to see what they’re up to. We don’t compare ourselves but it’s just nice to get a different viewpoint. And because this year has been solid with training on my own it’s nice to be able to share that experience with someone else, it’s quite important for me really. **Rob:** We’re hoping to fit one more training session in together before our marathons, maybe a 20 mile run if James can manage that!? - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/members ### Title: Members ### Page ID: 2888231 ### Content: # UNICORN BLOG # Meet the Members: Kimberly Moravec ### Meet the Members ### Meet the Members # The Brighton Marathon: Our members photo journal # Training for a marathon: Our members stories... #### Further Reading ## Join Our Studio ### benefits This month’s "Meet the Member" features Kimberly Moravec, a freelance science editor with a special interest in artificial intelligence. In her spare time, she loves writing science fiction, and has recently published a zombie novel called [*Undead on Arrival*](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Undead-Arrival-Trilby-Black-ebook/dp/B0CNZH3XYS). This month’s "Meet the Member" features James Hobson the owner and director of Moor-Art Gallery, an online store focused on pop culture artworks from movies and video games.  This month’s "Meet the Member" features Penelope Walker, who designed The Panathlon Joy Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year. In her spare time she enjoys, running, cycling, and working out, as well as acquiring new skills redecorating her house. This month’s "Meet the Member" features digital marketer, and content creator Chloe Plumstead. In her spare time, she loves gardening. She has recently teamed up with Feverfew Garden Company, to design her, “dream pair of gardening gloves”. This month's "Meet the Member" features Freelance Writer Simon Talbot, who specialises in creating audio guides for historical and cultural sites around the world. He also narrates and produces a podcast about badly behaved historical figures called Rogues Gallery Uncovered. This month's "Meet the Member" features Illustrator Mark King, who designed our coat of arms on the Studio wall. He can consume his own weight in Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough ice-cream, and is learning to create clay sculptures. This month's "Meet the Founder" features Software Developer, Steve Butterworth, who is one of the three founders of Unicorn Studios. He is a keen cyclist, loves to travel, and has recently become "slightly obsessed with the Wim Hof Method", which involves breathing exercises followed by an iced bath or a chilly dip in the sea or river. Congratulations to our studio members, James Crisp and Rob Simpson for completing the Brighton Marathon! Two of our studio members, James Crisp and Rob Simpson are running in the Manchester and London marathons. They regularly enjoy training together, in the beautiful Suffolk countryside. Here are their stories… Opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ALL](/blog "ALL") - [COWORKING](/coworking "COWORKING") - [REMOTE WORKING](/remote-working "REMOTE WORKING") - [MEMBERS](/members "MEMBERS") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/members-stories ### Title: Member's Stories ### Page ID: 2888288 ### Content: - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-simonarnold ### Title: Meet the Members: Simon Arnold ### Page ID: 2975119 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **When working at home what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features IT recruiter and consultant Simon Arnold, who enjoys playing golf, working out at the gym, and painting Warhammer models (he is a self-confessed geek). I’ve been running my own IT recruitment business for a couple of years from home. Initially this was great, however I had started to really miss the buzz of an office and the need to get changed out of my pyjamas before mid day…….. When I found Unicorn it represented the kind of environment I enjoyed being a part of and gave me an excuse to invest in my wardrobe. It’s fair to say I’ve had quite a few early in my career. My very first job was at the local newsagents at 13 years old, I did about 5 paper rounds and got paid extra to arrange the rounds for everyone else to deliver.  Other than that I worked in bars, restaurants, factories, warehouses, call centres, door to door fundraising and even on the regional news in Bristol interviewing people before I found my career in recruitment. Without doubt setting up and successfully running my own company has been my proudest achievement (and something I never thought I could do).  I owe a lot of thanks to my girlfriend, for giving me the push to do it, and a variety of people who invested in me throughout my career to give me the skills to make a go of it. With regards to work definitely an early bird!!  I like to start early and, where possible, finish early so I can fit time in for friends, hobbies and fun!! Other than wearing PJ’s all day, it’s probably sneaking off to play golf, go to the gym or paint Warhammer models (I am a bit of a geek). I’m fortunate to have lots of great memories from the last year but my 40th birthday was right up there. I was really spoiled and having all of the people I care about in one place celebrating with me was the icing on the cake! I’m learning how to throw clay…. No literally but to make pots and vases, let's see how I get on. I  can do an impression of the bagpipes… its actually pretty good. Probably golf, it’s so hard and I am so bad at it but I love it. **Elon musk** – it would be interesting to understand how he thinks **Dana White** – so hopefully I could get some free tickets to the UFC Tiny unicorn, obviously. Hamsters are owned / abused by children under the age of 10, eat seeds, live in a cage and only live a couple of years (which some might say is a mercy considering).  - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/the-challenges-of-remote-working ### Title: The challenges of remote working ### Page ID: 3127142 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Coworking ## Isolation and loneliness ## **Zoom fatigue and digital overload** ## Blurred lines between work and personal life ## Poor home office setup ## Distractions at home ## **Join Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration In recent years, remote working has become increasingly popular, allowing employees to work from home or other locations outside of the traditional office setting. While this trend has many benefits, it can also have its challenges. One of the main challenges of remote working is the lack of social interaction that typically comes with working in an office environment. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can have a negative impact on mental health. Whilst many businesses do what they can to encourage regular communication and collaboration among remote workers, these exchanges are generally through online chat platforms. Technologies such as video conferencing tools can facilitate face-to-face communication and help mitigate the negative effects of isolation and loneliness, but they lack the authenticity of interaction in a real world working environment and can lead to fatigue. The pandemic led to a significant increase in the use of video conferencing platforms like Zoom as people had to work, learn, and socialise remotely. This shift towards virtual communication has brought about a new phenomenon known as "Zoom fatigue." Zoom fatigue refers to the exhaustion and burnout people experience after spending long hours in virtual meetings, webinars, and video calls. The constant need to be present and engaged on-screen, coupled with the lack of nonverbal cues and physical interaction, can be emotionally and mentally draining. The pressure to be constantly available and productive, can also lead to increased stress, anxiety, and burnout. The constant barrage of emails, messages, notifications, and screens can lead to a sense of information overload, making it difficult for individuals to focus, remember, and process information effectively. The mental overload that comes with constant virtual communication can have long-lasting effects on a person's mental health. In a digitally connected world, if we are to combat Zoom fatigue and digital overload, it is essential to establish healthy boundaries and practices. This can include taking regular breaks from screens, setting specific times for work and leisure, and prioritising self-care such as exercise, and socialising with friends and family.   The blurred lines between work and personal life can be particularly challenging when it comes to remote working. Working from home can have a disruptive effect on the psychological boundaries between work and leisure. This can lead to a state of mental and emotional exhaustion, often referred to as 'burnout'.  Remote workers generally work flexible hours, there isn't the same sense of 'clocking off' that traditional employees experience when heading home at the end of their working day. There is a lack of clear distinction between work and leisure, which can make it difficult for remote workers to disconnect.  The burden of feeling constantly 'on-call' means that remote workers can start to associate work with something they should always be doing, they can't truly relax. They may feel compelled to respond to work-related messages even outside of their normal working hours. This lack of rest often leads to feelings of overwhelm, especially if these requests come through on weekends or at night when people usually switch off from work-related activities. To avoid burnout it is important to establish clear boundaries between work and leisure. It can be helpful if employers assign clear roles with fixed hours, that give employees an indication as to when they should be available for responding to requests. One of the most significant challenges of remote working from home is an inadequate office setup, which can take a mental and physical toll. Many employees do not have access to a comfortable chair and desk or a monitor at the right height and distance. This can lead to poor posture, which can cause pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. These symptoms can negatively impact productivity and lead to long-term health problems. Working from home can be great for people who crave flexibility and autonomy in their work lives, however, staying focused and ignoring distractions can be challenging. With family members, pets, and household chores all vying for attention, it can be difficult to stay focused and productive throughout the day. This can lead to increased stress levels and missed deadlines. Other household members can disrupt the flow of work and require attention at inopportune moments. This can be especially challenging for parents who are juggling work with homeschooling or caring for young children. It can be difficult to balance the demands of work with the needs of family, and it can be easy to feel guilty or torn between the two. While pets may be cute and cuddly, they can also be a source of constant interruption. From barking dogs to needy cats, pets can require attention and care throughout the day, which can take away from precious work time.  Whilst household chores aren't always high on the agenda, they can still be a major distraction when working from home. There always seems to be something that needs to be done around the house. While it can be tempting to take a break from work and tackle these tasks, it can also be a slippery slope towards procrastination and decreased productivity. Distractions at home can be a major challenge for individuals who are working remotely. It's important to find ways to minimise any disturbance, whether it's setting boundaries with family members, or creating a dedicated workspace that is free from household interruptions. The benefit is that it can improve productivity, reduce stress levels, and achieve a better work-life balance. If you are struggling with the challenges of working from home and are looking for another solution, then Unicorn Studios could be the place for you. Our members are very friendly and welcoming and we promise that you won't be distracted by pets and household chores, (although we will ask you to wash your cup).  **If you'd like to have a tour of our studio please get in touch below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/remote-working-and-increased-stress-levels ### Title: Why remote working can increase stress levels and how to combat it ### Page ID: 3211502 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ##### Remote Working ## Difficulty switching off from work ## **Lack of structure** ## Increased pressure to perform ## Connecting with other colleagues ## Limited opportunities for career growth ## Managing stress levels ## Accessing resources ## The role of coworking in reducing stress ## **Reduce work stress at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Why remote working can increase stress levels and how to combat it The rise of remote work has brought a lot of benefits for employees such as flexible working patterns but with no clear separation between work and home life, remote workers can find it difficult to disconnect, which can lead to elevated levels of stress and feelings of overwhelm. One of the main challenges that remote workers face is the inability to leave the office at the end of the working day. It can therefore be tempting to constantly check emails or work late into the night.  Whilst some people can thrive in these circumstances, others can feel increasingly stressed. This lack of a healthy work-life balance may eventually lead to burnout.  Setting clear working hours and establishing a dedicated place to work can help remote workers to separate work from their home lives. Psychologically it can be easier to relax at the end of the day, if remote workers are fortunate enough to have a home office. They can shut the door behind them and mentally switch off from work activities. Without a clear routine or structure, remote workers may struggle to manage their time effectively.  Lack of structure is a common challenge faced by people working from home. Unlike traditional office settings where there is a set routine, remote workers often have the freedom to create their own schedules. While this flexibility can be beneficial, it may come at the expense of effective time management.  This lack of structure can lead to increased stress and anxiety as it can be difficult for remote workers to prioritise their tasks. Without a clear plan, it is easy to get sidetracked by tasks that are not as important. This can quickly lead to a sense of overwhelm and frustration as deadlines approach and work piles up. When working remotely, employees don't have the same level of supervision and support that they can access in an office environment. As a result, they may feel the need to work harder to prove that they are productive and provide value to their company. This pressure to perform can lead to a sense of anxiety and stress that can negatively impact their mental health. Enterprising companies that provide support to their remote workers can help them to manage these pressures and maintain their employee's mental health and well-being. It can be easier working from home if you are able to check-in with your manager and colleagues on a regular basis. Technologies like video conferencing can have their limitations but they do provide opportunities to connect with other people and develop relationships outside of the home. This can have a positive impact on reducing stress levels. In a traditional office setting it is quite natural to turn and talk to a colleague if you need some help or support but if you are working from home it can be harder to pick up the phone or schedule an online chat. Developing relationships with remote colleagues can make it easier to access help when you need it. After all, they do say that a problem shared is a problem halved. Developing working relationships with colleagues online can reduce stress Remote workers may feel limited in their opportunities for career growth and development, leading to feelings of stress and dissatisfaction in their job. Without the ability to interact with colleagues and managers in person, remote workers can lack visibility and fail to gain recognition for their contributions. If they are not physically present in the office, they may miss out on opportunities for mentorship, networking, and professional development.  Feelings of stagnation and frustration can develop when people struggle to advance their careers. This can be particularly challenging and a source of stress for those who are ambitious and driven to succeed. Online networking events and virtual group training programs can be great ways to increase visibility and gain recognition. Feeling valued can significantly decrease stress levels and improve job satisfaction. It is important for remote workers to take proactive steps to manage their own stress levels. This can include setting clear boundaries around work hours and personal time, taking breaks throughout the day, and prioritising self-care such as going for a walk or taking other forms of exercise. If they are finding it difficult to switch off from work and are feeling stressed and over-burdened it is important to reach out for support. Some employers provide resources and support for managing stress, such as access to mental health services and training on stress management techniques. Admittedly it isn't always easy to talk about feeling overwhelmed and stressed, especially if you only have a remote relationship with your line manager and are worried that it could impact your future promotion prospects but tackling issues early can help prevent burn out further down the road. One of the main reasons that remote workers seek alternative working environments like coworking spaces is because they feel disconnected from their colleagues. Just one or two days per week, in a friendly coworking environment, can help prevent feelings of isolation and decrease stress and anxiety. Without the social interaction and support that comes with being in a traditional work setting, coworking spaces can meet the need for connection. They are often friendly and productive places to work and can provide a welcome change from being at home. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed working at home and are looking for a supportive environment, then Unicorn Studios could be the place for you. Our studio is a relaxing and enjoyable place to work and our members are very friendly and welcoming. **If you'd like to find out more about our coworking space book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/the-rise-of-ai-in-the-workplace ### Title: The rise of AI in the workplace - the benefits and challenges ### Page ID: 3316753 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## The benefits of AI in the workplace ## **What are the benefits of AI?** ### **Cost Savings** ### **Improved customer service** ### **Increased productivity** ### **Business resilience** ## Challenges of AI in the workplace ### **Security risks** ### **Job losses** ### **Technological challenges** ### **Ethical concerns around AI-powered technology** ### **AI hiring bias in recruitment** ### **Re-skilling of human workers** ### **Final thoughts** ## **AI adoption at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration The rise of AI in the workplace - the benefits and challenges With the rise of artificial intelligence more and more businesses are incorporating AI technologies into the workplace to automate repetitive tasks, and drive down costs. Repetitive tasks that were once performed by human workers can now be done by machines, freeing up employees to focus on more challenging and creative tasks. Will robots enter our workplaces? (Photo by Alex Knight) Whilst there is no doubt that integrating AI into the workplace offers many benefits, it also presents many challenges and ethical issues. The integration of AI in the workplace has brought about numerous benefits, making tasks easier, quicker, and more accurate than ever before. It can free up employees to focus on higher-level tasks, and improve the efficiency and productivity of businesses. This not only benefits employers but enables employees to experience greater fulfilment in their jobs. With the steep rise in operating costs over the last year, many businesses are looking to reduce their spending wherever they can. The potential savings derived from integrating AI technologies into the workplace can be very attractive. Human labour can be expensive, by automating tasks such as customer service and data entry, companies can reduce their payroll costs and free up resources to invest in other areas of the business. AI-powered systems can make processes more efficient, resulting in further cost savings. By simplifying their processes and allowing AI to handle repetitive tasks, businesses can optimise their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. AI providing customer services (Photo by Andrea De Santis) The rise of artificial intelligence in the workplace has created huge opportunities for companies to improve customer service. AI has the potential to revolutionise the way businesses interact with customers and provide an unparalleled level of service. AI Chatbots can automate and streamline customer service tasks 24 hours a day. By handling routine customer queries, they can improve response times, provide better resolution rates, and obtain higher levels of satisfaction from customers.  This frees up time for employees to focus on more complex customer issues that require greater understanding and empathy. One key benefit of AI is its ability to dramatically improve productivity by automating mundane, repetitive tasks such as data entry that currently take up a lot of time and sap people's energy. By allowing machines to perform the more tedious aspects of work, businesses can focus on adding value through creative problem-solving. Assigning mundane tasks to AI technologies, not only improves productivity but it increases job satisfaction and engagement. Employees have the opportunity to utilise their skills and experience in more meaningful ways. AI-powered technologies can also provide insights to help inform decisions and streamline processes, making businesses more efficient and productive. AI technology such as Open AI is increasing productivity (Photo by Andrew Neel) AI has the potential to greatly contribute to business resilience. In times of crisis, it can help companies quickly adapt to economic, environmental, and societal challenges by providing solutions that are both efficient and effective. For instance, businesses can use AI-powered tools for forecasting and modelling various scenarios in order to anticipate and manage risks. In the face of economic challenges, companies can leverage AI to automate routine tasks, freeing up time for employees to focus on more important activities.  By allowing companies to make more informed decisions through data analysis, automating routine tasks, and improving overall efficiency, AI can help businesses navigate crises with greater ease and stability. As businesses continue to embrace the power of artificial intelligence, there's no denying that AI-driven changes are becoming increasingly common in the workplace. They have the potential to dramatically impact the way we work, from automating repetitive tasks to augmenting human intelligence and decision-making capabilities. As promising as these advancements may seem, there are also critical concerns and challenges that need to be overcome. AI integrations and machine learning raise challenges for businesses (Photo by Markus Spiske) The introduction of AI technologies brings various security risks that must be addressed. AI systems are vulnerable to malicious attacks, and companies must ensure they have robust security protocols in place to protect sensitive data and systems. AI-driven systems can be vulnerable to hacking and manipulation, which could provide access to confidential data and lead to fraudulent activity. Companies must be aware of these risks and ensure their systems are secure to protect themselves from attack. One of the biggest concerns about AI technology being introduced into the workplace is that it can lead to job losses as certain roles become redundant. Whilst some jobs may be replaced by AI technologies, there is also potential for new roles to be created in order to operate and maintain these systems. However, workers need to be given the opportunity to up-skill so they are capable of taking on these new roles. There are significant technological challenges associated with integrating AI into the workplace. One of these is the limitations in machine learning algorithms. These algorithms require vast amounts of data to train models accurately. If the data does not represent the entire population, the algorithm may develop biases, leading to unfair and incorrect decisions. Another significant challenge is explaining decisions made by algorithms. As algorithms become more powerful, they are finding use cases in increasingly important areas such as financial lending or legal applications. However, it can be difficult to explain why the algorithm made a particular decision, making it hard to trust its conclusions. There is a risk of data bias when using AI systems, as these often replicate potentially discriminatory tendencies associated with human intelligence. As algorithms become increasingly complex these biases may become more entrenched and difficult to detect. One of the most pressing ethical issues is the negative disruption that may come along with automation. Certain industries and job roles could be significantly affected as AI replaces human workers. In the gig economy, contractors are not entitled to the same rights as permanent workers and maybe more at risk of losing their jobs. This raises important questions around employment contracts and the need for adequate protections to avoid unfair treatment that doesn't take into account individual circumstances. The adoption of AI may also create ethical concerns around the use of AI-powered technology and the treatment of human workers. Companies will need to re-skill their workforce to accommodate technological changes and ensure that they can work effectively in conjunction with AI technology. AI can improve efficiency and productivity (Photo by Steve Johnson) The use of AI in hiring has become increasingly common, but it has also raised concerns about unfair treatment. Biased algorithms have resulted in discrimination against certain groups of people, such as the AI hiring tool that disadvantaged female candidates. Employers who use unvalidated algorithms face potential legal consequences if they are found to be discriminatory. To avoid such outcomes, they must follow best practices, like regularly auditing algorithms to ensure they are not biased, and disclosing the factors influencing hiring decisions to all candidates. Many repetitive tasks that were previously performed by human workers will be automated, leading to a decline in certain occupations.  By contrast, there will be greater demand for tech and other professionals, such as data scientists, software engineers, and IT experts, as the use of technology in business continues to expand. Workers will need to acquire new skills or transition to new occupations to remain competitive in the job market. Up-skilling programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training will become increasingly important in helping workers to adjust to new ways of working. AI technologies replacing humans in the workplace (Photo by ZHENU LUO) As the use of AI technology in the workplace continues to grow, it will have a major impact on the future of work. While some workers may find themselves replaced by artificial intelligence, many others will benefit from its efficiency and increased productivity. It is important that the implementation of AI and automation should be done with careful consideration and planning, taking into account the potential risks and challenges associated with these technologies. Only then can organisations reap the full benefits of AI to create more sustainable businesses in the future. Many of our members are enjoying integrating AI technologies into their workflows to improve productivity but some are concerned that AI will affect their ability to find work. AI will definitely present some challenges in the future but they will be easier to face within a supportive community like the one at our studio. **If you'd like to find out more about our coworking space book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-ian-pointer ### Title: Meet the Members: Ian Pointer ### Page ID: 3385022 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **When working at home what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ### Portfolio ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features Visual Development Consultant and professional illustrator Ian Pointer, who is fascinated by sci-fi concepts that 'toy with the dark side of everything we take for granted'. I can often be seen sitting in a park or at the coast sketching. As an artist first I approach everything with a style of creativity. I get a lot out of being surrounded by creative people and Unicorn Studios energises me to be a better visual communicator. And I do like to finish the week with a great pint of real ale in a cosy pub. After having successfully completed 5 years of study in art and visual communication I landed a job as lead illustrator for a small design company. My duties were to formulate and create the illustration and design for children’s activity books. The first project was a series of Manga style activity books. It challenged me to work in a visual style I’d only dabbled in before. The project was a big success and continues to sell well through the publishing company. The children’s books I have created over the years are the most fun by far but my pride is in how I have worked in a variety of different fields, from classic fairy tale illustrations to high-profile, dynamic video wall displays. Career-wise, the award winning digital applications I’ve created encompass all the skills I have developed in the past decades. There is something rewarding about seeing your own visual designs being appreciated. I’m an early bird. I don’t sleep much and work on a dynamic schedule. I may start work at 2:30 in the morning or 11:00 in the morning, depending on the clients needs and timescale. All in all, I like to keep creativity going. Hmm! From the last year I would have to say visiting NASA in Houston when I was working over there. I felt like a kid again, remembering my red telescope I had for watching the moon in my bedroom. My job generally provides me with the opportunity to travel to some beautiful places and the Fjords of Norway would be a close second in answer to this question. Generally I’m into sci-fi concepts and often have a favourite episode of Doctor Who on in the background. I know it’s ‘my time’ when the Tardis sound fills the living room. I’m also a huge fan of the Black Mirror series, the Twilight Zone for the digital age. I am fascinated by concepts that toy with the dark side of all we take for granted. This year I still need to enjoy the 40th birthday gift I got from my siblings, going on a hot air balloon ride. Something I’ve always wanted to do. Where it will be though is yet to be determined. Hidden talent? I would probably say music. I took to piano very quickly when I was young and have a good sense of rhythm and composition. Sadly, at school we had to choose between Art or Music and I chose art. But I’ve dabbled in creating digital chill out music and playing piano. Concert pianist with modern fusion. I would love to have the skill to enter a stage and carry a rendition of Ludovico Einaudi’s Novule Bianche, or turn up in a bar and play soft jazz on the piano to a group of good spirited people. By fantasy co-workers, I would presume that includes anyone creative, living or deceased. In this case; **1.** **Edward Hopper**, he would inspire me to express the love I have for the humble social scenes of society. **2.** **Christopher Nolan**… his grasp on narratives of desperate reality, influenced by the struggles of a central male character spark my fascination of real life questions. **3.** Then the last (and greatest choice), would be **Richard Linklater**, creator of the Before Sunrise series and Waking Life. His grasp of the thinking philosophy of Phillip K Dick is extraordinary. Linklater’s films reflect the anxieties of reality in a ballroom of eclectic thought experiment. To me, he is the most influential visual communicator of modern times. That’s a 50/50 question. I would veer towards a tiny Unicorn. I could slip in and out of peoples peripheral and leave them frowning, in a state of question as to whether they just saw a tiny horse with a golden head spike or not. Providing an obscure lasting thought in their daily routine. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/starting-a-business-at-unicorn-studios ### Title: Starting a business at Unicorn Studios ### Page ID: 3453917 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## **Overcoming my fears** ## **Is age an obstacle?** ### **Facing the need to up-skill** ### **Research and business planning** ### **Benefits of being self-employed** ## **The future** ## **Starting a business at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration I have spent most of my life working for other people, whilst dreaming of setting up my own business but until recently I lacked the self-confidence to take the leap... I have friends who have established successful businesses, who have found it a challenging yet fulfilling experience. I have really admired their courage. At times I have also envied their freedom to take a few weeks off, to travel to some far flung corner of the globe whilst I've been locked into a nine to five existence with limited holiday allowance, wishing that I had the guts to follow their example. So what helped me to overcome my fears and finally take the plunge? It was finding a supportive community of fellow entrepreneurs at Unicorn Studios. They have encouraged and advised me throughout my business journey and made the prospect of setting up my own business less daunting. I am very grateful to them! At Unicorn Studios, members have access to a network of people who can help them get their business off the ground more quickly and easily. Fellow entrepreneurs provide advice and moral support, without which I'm not sure that I'd be where I am now. One of the things that held me back for so long was the firm belief that age was an obstacle and I should have taken the opportunities to set up my own business when I was younger. However, I no longer believe that age should be a limiting factor. There are many successful entrepreneurs who have started businesses later in life and brought their experience and expertise to the table. It's true that statistically speaking most of the startup founders are between the ages of 20-35. They typically have more energy, are less risk averse and have fewer commitments and responsibilities. However, it is also true that lots of startups fail each year due to lack of knowledge and professional experience. For me, that's been another benefit of being based at Unicorn Studios. I have the privilege of spending time with entrepreneurs of all ages and backgrounds. Through them I have learnt that age is only an obstacle if you let it. The Unicorn Studios building in the heart of Ipswich, Suffolk Despite not long graduating from the University of Suffolk as a graphic designer it was clear that if I was to pursue my goal of being a web designer and developer I would have to buckle down and get to grips with the latest web technologies. It's a very fast paced industry, with new software products coming onto the market every day. I had to navigate my way through a bewildering amount of technology to find products that suited my needs.  With the vast array of available options and seemingly endless technical jargon, I was glad to have Steve, (one of Unicorn Studios founders) to help make sense of it all. Those who know me won't be surprised that I conducted a lot of industry research and took time to carefully plan my business goals, outlining my objectives for the first six months, year and into the future. Of course, we all know that best laid plans don't always come to fruition but it gave me a sense of comfort because I had the illusion of being in control. There is an awful lot of emphasis these days on having a detailed business plan. Frequently this is an inescapable condition of funding, whether it be a bank loan or a grant. But when I look back over my first year in business, it wasn't my scrupulous planning that sustained me but my ability to pivot. Setting up a business in challenging economic circumstances is no mean feat, so sometimes you have to set aside your carefully laid plans and work out how to survive the latest obstacles. This doesn't mean that the weeks I spent researching my chosen industry was wasted. Indeed it proved invaluable when I needed to change my plans, because I was already aware of the alternative options available to me. As a new business owner I have personally found that one of the most significant advantages of being self-employed is the freedom and autonomy that comes with being my own boss. Instead of working for someone else, I have the opportunity to set my own schedule, make decisions independently, and turn my passions into something profitable. I love the fact that I get to spend my time as a graphic designer and web developer working on projects that stimulate and interest me, that have the added benefit of providing a living. My journey as a business owner has been incredibly rewarding and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead. I am so glad I found the courage! Taking the plunge and starting my own business at Unicorn Studios has opened up a whole new world of possibilities.  In the words of Steve Jobs (someone I greatly admired): **"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do."** Getting advice from a fellow co-worker at the studio If you have longed to set up your own business but feel fearful doing it alone, you will find a supportive community at Unicorn Studios. **If you'd like to find out more about our coworking space book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/is-ai-technology-a-threat-to-human-creativity ### Title: Is AI technology a threat to human creativity? ### Page ID: 3654149 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## AI-powered tools ### **Language models** ### **Image generators** ### **Content generation - ethical implications** ## **The importance of human interaction in the creative process** ### **The role of the human artist** ## My experience ## **AI & Creativity at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration AI-powered tools are revolutionising the creative industry, impacting the work of graphic designers, writers, and artists. Are they a positive development that will help meet the ever increasing demand for creative content or an existential threat to our working practices and professions? As AI-powered tools become increasingly sophisticated, they are capable of generating content on demand, often indistinguishable from a human artist. This poses both opportunities and challenges for creative professionals, raising questions about the future role of human creators and the ethical implications of AI-generated works. AI-powered tools, like OpenAI's GPT-4, have the ability to generate human-like content based on minimal prompts. This technology is revolutionising the way content is written by streamlining the content generation process. People can now rely on AI to generate written content quickly and efficiently. Language models can analyse vast amounts of data to understand context, tone, and style, allowing them to produce coherent and engaging posts and articles. However, as the web gets flooded with AI generated articles that aren't fact checked, the credibility and trustworthiness of the information we consume should be called into question. As creative professionals we are responsible for the quality and accuracy of the information we produce. Image generators, such as DALL-E and Midjourney, are shaking up the creative industry, especially in professions like photography and graphic design. The image making process is automated, which offers a new level of convenience and productivity, allowing designers and photographers to produce high-quality visuals within seconds. However, mastering the art of textual prompts is critical to achieving successful outcomes. Simple textual descriptions can create stunning and realistic images but they aren't always appropriate for a project and it is difficult to fine tune them. One might argue that image generators are more exciting than spending hours trawling through stock photo libraries but they can still be time consuming to use. I can understand why mounting pressures might tempt some creatives to use generated images without further editing but I believe that the unique perspectives of human artists and designers are integral to the creative process. Image generators should be seen as a complementary resource that enhances the creative experience, rather than a replacement for human skills. Relying solely on AI tools for content creation raises ethical implications and challenges. The risk of AI-generated content being indistinguishable from human-created content raises concerns about authenticity and transparency. It could also devalue our professions. I am concerned that over-dependence on AI may also stifle human creativity, as it is something that needs to be regularly practiced. When I took a break from graphic design during lock-down, it took a while for my brain to become well versed in generating ideas and creative solutions once more. I liken it to going to the gym, if you value your fitness and physique, you can't stop exercising, as your fitness will diminish and your muscles will atrophy. The importance of human interaction in the creative process Human interaction in the creative process has long been the driving force behind the most remarkable works of art, design, and writing. It is the unique combination of skills, imagination, and experiences that make the creative professions so highly regarded. However, with the advent of AI-powered tools and generative models, the role of human creators is being challenged. These tools are capable of producing impressive and realistic images, generating music, and even creating written content on demand. While these advancements undoubtedly offer new possibilities, they also pose a potential threat to the jobs and livelihoods of creative professionals. The fear is that with the capabilities of AI in content generation and design, the need for human skills such as critical thinking, originality, and emotional expression may diminish.  Human artists possess unique skills and capabilities that cannot be replicated by AI. The ability to think critically, apply emotional intelligence, and draw from personal experiences allows human creators to produce art that elicits genuine emotions and inspires action. Whether it's a thought-provoking piece of writing, a visually stunning graphic design, or a captivating piece of music, the human touch remains unrivalled. The value of human-created content is a result of personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives. Artists, designers, and writers draw from their own unique backgrounds and interpret the world through their individual lens. They convey meaning, symbolism, and depth in their work, using their understanding of human emotions and cultural context. It is important to recognise the limitations of AI in the realm of creativity. AI may excel at replicating famous artists, mimicking art styles, and generating surreal images, but it struggles to replicate the complexity of human thought and emotion. There is a limit to its ability to convey meaning and to understand symbolism. While AI-generated content may be efficient and effective at producing mass quantities of art, it lacks the depth and nuance that human creativity brings.  The artist's experiences, emotions, and perspectives are expressed through his art In the face of advancing AI technology, it is crucial for creative professionals to adapt their skills and embrace the potential benefits. However, as a graphic designer and web developer, AI technologies have felt a bit like a landslide, they have been all consuming. I have watched as image generators, content creation systems, and language models have dramatically altered the creative processes in the industry. On a daily basis I am presented with AI-driven technologies that replace creative practices I fought so hard to learn.  It is not that I am unwilling to adopt AI into my workflows, I have spent a considerable amount of time researching and learning how to best utilise it. However, it is the speed of technical innovation that I find difficult to process. I am finding AI technology hard to implement because if you blink it has been superseded by another emerging technology. It is not like learning Adobe Creative Cloud or Affinity software that evolves relatively slowly and has a consistent user interface. AI software is constantly in flux, no sooner have you got used to a particular interface or functionality before it is irrevocably changed. At first I found these innovations inspiring but now I long for more consistency. As a creative professional I am excited by the opportunities that AI technology presents. However, I will strive to find a balance between utilising AI-powered tools for efficiency, while continuing to practice and develop my own creativity. If I can achieve this, I think it will offer the best of both worlds. At Unicorn Studios we have graphic designers, UI/UX designers, illustrators, bloggers, and social media content creators. Some have actively embraced the new AI technologies whilst others have chosen not to alter their creative practices. AI will no doubt present some professional opportunities and challenges in the future but they will be best optimised and faced within a creative community like the one at Unicorn Studios. **If you'd like to find out more about our coworking space, book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-josh-richards ### Title: Meet the Members: Josh Richards ### Page ID: 3730326 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **When working what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features entrepreneur Josh Richards, who has three businesses at the age of 23. He supports Arsenal, is passionate about food, and would love to have Ant-Man's ability to resize. I support Arsenal and Bukayo Saka is one of my favourite players. I have a full-time job and operate three businesses, at the age of 23. I am looking to outsource and expand them as I grow older.  I joined Unicorn Studios in January 2023 because I was working from home and I needed an office so I could split up my working day.  It was the obvious choice because I knew Rob and Steve from the Waterfront Studios (a co-working studio for creatives), that was based at the University of Suffolk until 2019.  I enjoy working at Unicorn Studios because of the friendly people and frequent discussions about food (a passion of mine). The networking is good for my business. Technically, it was a paper round for £20 a week, however I would say it was actually a sales apprenticeship at a place called UK Fuels where I had to cold call 50 - 100 businesses a day. I did this for about one year before working at McDonalds.  From a young age I have wanted to set up my own business. At 13, I started following entrepreneurs like Gary Vee, Warren Buffet and Elon Musk, and began drawing up business plans with a friend. I am most proud of having the confidence to leave my traditional 9-5 employment to build a successful eBay business. I like having the freedom to do what I want whenever I want. I can keep my own hours and split my time between the studio and working from home. If I had to choose I would be a night owl because that's when I'm most productive and it’s a great excuse to have a lay-in, and work from my bed. I find it’s the best place to tackle my emails first thing in the morning. One of my favourite memories from the last year is going to watch Ipswich Town FC play at Portman Road ,with my Dad. My next door neighbour gave me free tickets for the match. It was good to hang out together and discuss my life, and business aspirations. Singing loudly and dancing to Santan Dave when everyone has left the Studio. Although now my secret is out, Rob (one of the partners) has said he will be checking the cameras. (I wouldn’t be surprised if a GIF appears on the Studios social media.) Travelling and going on work holidays with my businesses. The first place on my list is Bulgaria because my mate Addie is studying to become a doctor over there.  I would also like to visit my family in Villamartin near Alicante. My cousin owns a cafe bar there. I’m up for going anywhere I don’t have to pay for accommodation. So if anyone is offering, drop me a message on Instagram (see link below). Sleeping, I can sleep for England. I have been bugging the Unicorn partners for a sleep pod in the basement for the last few months. I got the idea from a Sidemen video. They went to Tokyo and sleep pods are very big in the culture over there. Initially, I would love to become an expert in the economy, as this would help me understand the foreign exchange markets and trade more effectively. **Ian Wright** because he is an Arsenal legend and who wouldn't want to be in Uncle Wrighty's company? **Patrick Bet-David** because he is a successful businessman and podcast host with extensive knowledge of business, life, and networking, and I would pick his brains.  **Warren Buffett** because he was one of the first people who built my interest in business and investing.  It wouldn't matter because I would have the ability to resize like Ant-Man. However, if I was a tiny unicorn I could save money on food and materials.  - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/steps-to-starting-a-freelance-business ### Title: Steps to starting a freelance business ### Page ID: 3898661 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## Step One - Define your niche ### **The value of specialising in a specific area** ## **Step Two - Industry research** ### **Research market rates** ## **Step Three - Identify your target audience** ## **Step Four - Preparation & Planning** ### **Set financial goals** ### **Develop a business plan** ## Step Five - Create a roadmap ## **Freelancing at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Starting a freelance business is a great way to turn your passions and skills into a successful career. However, getting started can be intimidating. Regardless of whether you view it as a side hustle or a long-term profession, there are essential steps to achieving success in the freelance industry. When starting a freelance business, it is crucial to define your niche and specialise in a specific area. This enables you to stand out from the competition, attract potential clients more effectively, and position yourself as an expert in your field. Defining a niche allows you to concentrate your efforts, skills, and resources on a specific market or skill set. This helps you stand out as the go-to professional. By specialising in a specific area, you can showcase your in-depth knowledge and skills, which helps build trust and credibility with potential clients. For example, if you are a freelance graphic designer who specialises in logo design, you can create a strong brand identity and reputation in that specific niche. Specialising helps you tailor your marketing efforts and target a specific audience. This allows you to better understand your target market's needs, preferences, and pain points, enabling you to offer more relevant and personalised services. Conducting industry research is crucial for establishing a successful freelance business. Understanding the trends, demands, and competition in your chosen niche will help you make informed decisions and position yourself strategically in the market. Industry research involves studying market trends, analysing competitors, identifying potential clients, and gauging the demand for your services. By conducting thorough research, you can gain valuable insights into your target audience's needs, preferences, and pain points. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your services, pricing, and marketing strategies accordingly, giving you a competitive edge.  Researching the market rates in your industry will help you make informed decisions about pricing your freelance services. To research the market rates, start by looking at other freelance professionals in your field. Explore their websites, portfolios, and pricing structures to get an idea of what they charge. Take into consideration factors such as their experience, skills, and expertise and compare them to your own. It's also essential to consider your location when setting your rates. Rates can vary significantly depending on the local economy and demand for your services. Conducting thorough market research will give you an accurate picture of the rates that are reasonable and feasible for your area. Keep in mind that while you want to set competitive prices, you must also factor in your own experience and skills. If you're just starting, you may need to offer slightly lower rates to attract clients and build your portfolio. As you gain more experience and a solid client base, you can gradually increase your rates. One of the most important steps, in starting any business is to identify your target audience. Understanding the group of individuals or businesses that would benefit most from your services will enable you to tailor your marketing efforts and attract the right clients. To determine your target audience, start by researching the demographics, interests, and needs of potential clients in your industry. Consider factors such as age, gender, location, occupation, and specific industries that may require your services.  Conduct keyword research to identify the terms and phrases your potential clients are using on search engines. This can provide valuable insights, and will help you optimise your website and content to attract organic traffic and reach the right audience. By identifying your target audience, you can focus your marketing efforts on reaching those who are most likely to be interested in your freelance services.  This targeted approach will increase your chances of finding potential clients who are not only in need of your expertise but also more likely to become long-term, satisfied customers. Starting a freelance business requires careful preparation and planning. Having a clear plan will help you stay focused and organised as you navigate the freelance industry. Before diving into the world of freelancing, it's important to consider your personal finances and how you will manage them during the initial stages of your business. Determine how much money you need to cover your living expenses and make sure you have a plan in place to handle any periods of irregular income. Consider your personal finances and set realistic goals that align with your financial needs and aspirations. Developing a business plan is a crucial step when starting a freelance business. It serves as a roadmap that outlines your objectives and helps you develop ideas to achieve them. It also acts as a blueprint for the short and medium term, ensuring that you have a clear direction and strategy. A well-crafted business plan includes key components such as identifying your competition, setting financial goals, and establishing a work-life balance. For instance, knowing your competition allows you to differentiate yourself and find your unique selling proposition. By taking the time to prepare and plan you will be able to lay a solid foundation for your freelance business and increase your chances of long-term success. Start by defining your overall vision and mission for your business. What do you want to achieve? What values and principles will guide your work?  Outline the specific actions and strategies you will implement to reach your goals. This may include marketing, networking activities, and skill development. Break these actions down into smaller steps and prioritise them based on their importance and relevance to your business. Regularly track your progress and make adjustments as needed. Set measurable milestones and regularly evaluate your performance. Are you meeting your targets? If not, assess what is working and what needs improvement.  Creating a roadmap is not a one-time task. It should be a dynamic and evolving document that reflects the growth and evolution of your business. Keep refining and adjusting your roadmap as you gain more experience and insights. Unicorn Studios is a co-working studio that offers individuals the opportunity to establish their freelancing business within a supportive community. With its flexible hours and friendly working environment, Unicorn Studios could be a good fit for you.  **If you'd like to find out more about freelancing at Unicorn, book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/marketing-and-promoting-your-freelance-business ### Title: Marketing and promoting your freelance business ### Page ID: 4144177 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## **Utilise a variety of marketing strategies** ## **Dedicate time to marketing and promotion** ## **The importance of competitive pricing** ## **Attend industry events** ## **Join online communities** ## **Long-term growth** ## **Promoting your business at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Marketing and promotion are essential for the success of any freelance business. It's important to not only provide exceptional services, but also to effectively showcase your skills and attract potential clients. Promote your business using a variety of marketing strategies With the rise of social media platforms and online presence, there are numerous opportunities to market and promote your freelance business. Creating a strong brand identity, utilising a variety of marketing strategies, and maintaining good customer relationships are key to standing out in the freelance industry. In this competitive market, it's crucial to have a marketing plan that reaches your specific target audience. Engaging with fellow freelancers and actively participating in relevant communities can also help create valuable connections and expand your client base. Effective marketing and promotion strategies can ensure a steady stream of clients and help your freelance business thrive. To start a successful freelance business, it is crucial to dedicate time to marketing and promotion. While it may seem daunting and time-consuming, investing in these activities can be really rewarding.  By consistently creating valuable and insightful content, you can attract potential clients and build credibility. This can be achieved through blog posts, informative videos, or engaging social media posts. It is an opportunity to give your prospective customers a peak behind the scenes, to see the person beyond the brand. People relate to people not businesses. In addition to producing content, actively promoting your services on social media platforms is equally important. Utilising social media to share your expertise and engage with your target audience can significantly boost your online presence and attract potential clients. Social media platforms attract different audiences. It is therefore important to maintain an active presence on platforms where your target audience is most likely to be found, irrespective of your individual preferences. It may be tempting to solely focus on client projects, but neglecting your own business's content marketing can hinder long-term growth. By investing time and energy into your own marketing efforts, you can experience a steady flow of prospective clients and ensure the sustainability of your freelance business. Conduct industry research to set competitive pricing Setting competitive pricing for your freelance services is crucial in order to attract clients and generate a steady income. **Research the market**: Take the time to understand the current rates in your industry and region. This will help you determine a competitive price range for your services. **Assess your skills and experience**: Consider your level of expertise, years of experience, and any specialised knowledge you bring to the table. These factors can influence the value you offer and justify a higher price. **Determine your worth**: It is important not to undervalue yourself. Consider the value you provide to clients, the quality of your work, and the results you can deliver. Setting a fair price that reflects your skills and worth is essential. **Price by project**: Instead of charging hourly rates, consider pricing by project. This allows you to provide a clear and upfront price to clients, based on the scope of the work. It also gives you the opportunity to showcase your efficiency and the level of service you provide. **Communicate clearly with clients**: Be transparent about your pricing structure and the factors that influence it. Clearly outline what is included in your services and any additional fees or expenses. This helps manage client expectations and ensures there are no surprises down the line. By setting competitive pricing for your freelance services, you position yourself as a professional in the industry and attract clients who are willing to pay for your expertise. Remember to regularly evaluate and adjust your pricing strategy based on market trends and your own growth as a freelancer. Industry events offer a platform to showcase your expertise Attending industry events, provides an opportunity to engage with potential clients, fellow freelancers, and industry professionals. By participating in these events, you can build relationships and establish a network that can help grow your business. Industry events offer a platform to showcase your expertise and gain recognition within your target audience. Take the opportunity, wherever possible, to give presentations, or host workshops that demonstrate your knowledge and skills. This allows you to position yourself as an expert in your field, making you more attractive to potential clients. Another benefit of attending industry events, is the chance to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in your industry. By staying informed, you can adapt your services to meet the evolving needs of your target market. Networking at these events is crucial for building connections with potential clients and collaborators. Engaging in conversations with other business owners and decision-makers can lead to new opportunities and client referrals. Building these relationships can be instrumental in creating a steady client base for your freelance business. Joining online communities is a great way to connect with fellow freelancers and potential clients. Look for industry-specific forums, groups, or communities where you can participate and share your expertise. By engaging in discussions and offering valuable insights, you can build relationships with others in your field. These online communities provide a platform to showcase your skills, knowledge, and experience to a targeted audience. You can establish yourself as an expert and gain recognition among your peers. This can lead to referrals and collaborations with other freelancers, as well as potential clients who may be looking for your services. Being active in these communities also allows you to stay updated with the latest trends and developments in your industry. This knowledge helps you adapt your services to meet the evolving needs of your target market. Additionally, you can learn from other freelancers' experiences and gain valuable insights that can contribute to the growth of your business. As a freelancer ,you have to wear many hats in your business and it can be difficult to strike a balance between client work and promoting your services. However, if you schedule dedicated time in your calendar to content marketing and promotion, you can attract potential clients, build your online presence, and achieve long-term growth. Unicorn Studios has members across a wide sector of industries. Our friendly working environment and supportive community can provide opportunities for you to share what you do with like-minded professionals. Our members frequently enjoy collaborating on projects. **If you'd like to find out more about freelancing at Unicorn, book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-becca-cullum-green ### Title: Meet the Members: Becca Cullum-Green ### Page ID: 4253090 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **When working what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features Interiors Journalist Becca Cullum-Green, who is enjoying her recent decision to go freelance. She has, "fallen in love with the gym" as part of her morning routine, and would love to have her idol Dolly Parton as a co-worker. Hey, I’m Becca! I’m a freelance interiors journalist and stylist based in Suffolk. After graduating university in 2016 I delved into the world of journalism, which involved lots of interning for free and enduring a few classic ‘Devil Wears Prada’ moments.  I’ve always loved interiors, specifically how a home can be an expression of an individuals personality and sense of self and also how a space can make someone feel. I landed my first magazine job at one of the leading interior magazines in the UK and worked my way up from there. I made the plunge into going freelance this summer and haven’t looked back. My ‘job’ if you can call it a ‘real job’ involves lots of typing away on my laptop and also being out and about styling photoshoots and peoples homes. I enjoy coming into Unicorn Studios once a week to get out of the house and to avoid the washing for a day! It’s a creative space filled with like-minded people who love to have a chat.  My first job at 14 was as a waitress at a local bar and restaurant. I still to this day think being a waitress is one of the hardest jobs in the world and I’m not sure if I can trust someone who hasn’t been through this experience. It definitely taught me a lot of life lessons. Going freelance was a huge milestone for me and leading up to it felt like jumping off a cliff. I think my personality is really well suited to being self-employed. I love the freedom and being able to do what I want with my time. I feel like I’ve got a great work life balance now and I no longer have to take part in pointless meetings - woo!  An early bird. After falling in love with the gym a few years back I love getting up early and getting my workout done before my working day begins. It’s a perfect way to start to the day and makes me feel good. Cornwall is one of my favourite places in the entire world. My husband and I love it down there and we try to visit at least once or twice a year.  In the summer we ventured down to watch a drum n bass orchestra on Lusty Glaze beach, it was such a great night and definitely one to remember!  There’s a wonderful tea room opposite my house where my husband and I got married last year. I subsequently have become very friendly with the owners and it’s very hard to resist chatting with them over a coffee and a slice of cake at least once a day! I recently attended an event called ‘Boozy Brushes’ where a drag artist teaches you how to paint. The theme was Dolly Parton and I couldn’t believe I managed to paint something that wasn’t half bad. It’s a hidden talent that I’ve only just discovered! This year we’re spending Christmas in Australia. We’ve been over there a few times to visit family but never at Christmastime. We’re spending new years on Fraser Island, which I’m sure is going to be amazing and a wonderful way to end the year. I should probably say something like politics or the economy but I’m currently watching the new season of Selling Sunset and I’m very envious of the girls outfits and lavish lifestyles, so I’d have to say selling overly expensive homes in LA!? **Dolly Parton** - I know she’s already been mentioned but she’s a true idol of mine. On my desk at home I have a sign that says ‘what would Dolly do? - I think if you follow this mantra you won’t go far wrong. **Miriam Margolyes** - what a woman! Intelligent, smart and full to the brim of interesting stories. I’d be asking her questions all day so I’m sure we wouldn’t get much work done.  Definitely a tiny unicorn! You have to believe in magic or else what’s the point?  - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/how-can-individual-personality-traits-affect-our-freelance-business ### Title: How can individual personality traits affect our freelance business? ### Page ID: 4387652 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## **How do introverts communicate?** ## **How do extroverts communicate?** ## **How does introversion and extroversion affect our working styles?**  ## **Key personality traits important in any freelance business** ### Self-disciplined ### Adaptable ### Proactive ### Self-motivated and resilient ### Able to listen and understand ## **How does our personality affect how our freelance business develops?** ## **Expressing our individual personalities at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration How can individual personality traits affect our freelance business? Personality plays a significant role in the success of a freelance business. From communication style to work ethic, our unique traits and characteristics can greatly impact our effectiveness as a freelancer. Understanding how personality influences our approach to client relationships, time management, and problem-solving can make a substantial difference in the overall performance of our business. It can help us leverage our strengths and address any potential challenges. Introverted personalities often prefer written communication over verbal expression. They may be more comfortable expressing themselves through emails, journals, and blogs. This allows them to carefully craft their thoughts before sharing them. In one-on-one interactions, introverts are likely to listen more than they speak, taking in the information and reflecting on it before responding. They tend to value deep, meaningful conversations over small talk. In social situations, introverts generally prefer to engage in deep, one-on-one conversations rather than participating in group discussions. When expressing themselves, they often choose their words carefully and prioritise clarity and depth over quantity. In large group settings, introverts may feel more comfortable observing and processing information rather than actively participating. Introverts and extroverts can make us behave in different ways Extroverted personalities often exhibit a communication style that is characterised by being outgoing, talkative, and highly social in interpersonal interactions. They thrive in group discussions, enjoying the energy and dynamics of interacting with multiple people at once. Their ability to easily express themselves makes them adept at articulating their thoughts and feelings. This can make them engaging communicators, who are able to capture and retain the attention of those around them. Their talkative nature and sociable demeanour make them adept at connecting with a wide range of people and building relationships through their outgoing communication style. When studying psychology I learnt that extroversion and introversion traits are on a spectrum. We may be more extroverted in some areas of our lives whilst more introverted in others. We are just more predisposed to one more than the other. Our unique personalities have a significant impact on the way we communicate, collaborate, and make decisions in the workplace. Extroverted people like me, tend to be more talkative and sociable, which can lead to more open communication and collaboration with others. We prefer to discuss ideas and make decisions as a team. It is personally my favourite way of working. If I work alone for too long, I feel bored and unstimulated, like my battery has gone flat. On the other hand, introverted individuals may rely more on written communication and prefer to work independently. They often excel at focused, independent decision-making. When working with some of my introverted colleagues I try to listen and not talk too much, giving them time to respond. They can often provide deep and meaningful insights that I would personally have overlooked. Irrespective of our individual personalities, there are key traits that we need to develop to succeed in the freelance industry. Mastering these traits can significantly impact the success and longevity of our freelancing careers.  Self-discipline is essential for us to stay focused, meet deadlines, and manage our time effectively. Without this trait, it can be challenging to maintain productivity and deliver high-quality work.  We can all struggle at times with being self-disciplined, especially if the project we are working on doesn't engage us. However, pushing through to completion, despite how we are feeling can be rewarding, and not just because of the money we earn. I have found that it gives me a sense of satisfaction and self-respect. Adaptability is essential when it comes to navigating change and uncertainty. As a freelancer, we may be called upon to work on projects outside of our comfort zone. Being able to quickly adjust to new scenarios and challenges can help us remain competitive in the freelance industry. It is essential for managing fluctuating workloads and navigating the ever-changing freelance market. Those of us who can adjust our schedules and work efficiently during busy periods will thrive in the freelance industry. Building and maintaining a client base also requires specific personality traits. In today's challenging economy we need to have effective communication skills, be reliable, and have a customer-centric approach to our freelancing activities.  As freelancers we need to be proactive in marketing our business, and providing excellent customer service to retain our clients. We have a kaleidoscope of personalities in our workplaces Self-motivation is another vital trait for freelancers, as we must be driven to seek out opportunities, constantly improve our skills, and stay updated on industry trends. This is especially true for new business owners, as it takes time to establish a reliable customer base and carve out our niche in the industry. We also need to be increasingly resilient to overcome setbacks and rejection and keep pushing towards our goals. Resilience helps us to knuckle down and push on regardless. This is particularly important when we are facing challenges that seem beyond our control.  Being able to follow instructions is a key trait for any freelancer. We must be able to understand and comply with our clients' requests and directions in order to meet their expectations. This involves the ability to ask relevant questions, listen attentively, and provide feedback in an appropriate manner. Whilst these are highly desirable personality traits, we can't expect to master them overnight. They can take years to develop, so be patient with yourself. Learn from your mistakes, try a different approach, and keep going. (I know this isn't always easy when your livelihood is at stake.) Extroverted freelancers enjoying collaborating together The personality of a freelance business owner can significantly impact the development and success of their business. Different personality traits can influence how freelancers approach their work, interact with clients, and handle challenges. For instance, individuals with a creative personality may have a unique and innovative approach to their business, leading to original, engaging work that sets them apart from competitors. Freelancers who can easily adapt, have the ability to quickly adjust to changes in the market or client demands, allowing them to remain competitive and relevant. Those who are resilient are better equipped to handle setbacks and rejections, allowing them to bounce back and continue pursuing their goals. This mindset can be crucial in the often uncertain and fluctuating world of freelancing. Understanding and leveraging our unique traits can help us build a strong and sustainable business that stands out in a competitive market. At Unicorn Studios we have a broad mix of personalities amongst our members. That is one of the things that I love most about working here.  As an extrovert I have a tendency to be rather talkative. It is very natural for me to want to share my thoughts and be very sociable. A lot of our members also value the opportunity to express themselves, and connect with other professionals. They see it as a welcome break from working alone at home.  **If you'd like to find out more about freelancing at Unicorn Studios, book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/protected-collection-item ### Title: Protected Page ### Page ID: 4506906 ### Content: In order to view the page, please enter the password below: --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/forget-the-gym-try-these-funny-new-years-resolutions-instead ### Title: Forget the gym! Try these funny New Year's resolutions instead ### Page ID: 4506910 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## **Embrace your inner couch potato** ## **Become an expert in procrastination** ## **Master the art of food combinations**   ## **Develop your skills in creative excuses** ## **Enhance your nap-taking skills** ## **Master a silly skill** ## **Discover your inner child** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Forget the gym! Try these funny New Year's resolutions instead As the new year approaches, many people start thinking about making resolutions for positive change in their lives. However, instead of the typical, serious goals, why not add some humour and light-heartedness to your New Year's resolutions? It's time to let loose your inner couch potato and indulge in some good old-fashioned TV binge-watching. Picture yourself lounging on the sofa, surrounded by a mountain of pillows and blankets, with a never-ending supply of snacks within arm's reach. Your only mission for the day is to binge-watch your favourite TV shows. It's a much-needed break from the endless cycle of New Year's resolutions that revolve around fitness, diets, and productivity. Embrace the simple joy in flopping onto the couch and losing yourself in a great drama. There is something undeniably satisfying about snuggling up with a cosy blanket and your favourite treats. Sometimes, we all need a little downtime to recharge and relax. Procrastination – the fine art of doing everything except what we're supposed to be doing. It's like a rite of passage for every human being. Instead of viewing it as an unproductive behaviour, see it as an opportunity to excel in the art of delaying tasks. This way you will be honing a skill rather than avoiding responsibilities. If you need a little help perfecting your procrastination skills, here are some tips: Always have a backup plan in case you actually start getting things done, find creative ways to justify your procrastination to yourself (and others), and never underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned nap to avoid doing anything productive. Remember that procrastination is not a bad habit, it’s a skill and lifestyle choice. So, go ahead and put off reading that self-help article on productivity – there’s always tomorrow! Are you tired of eating the same old boring meals every day? It's time to shake things up and unleash your inner culinary genius! Experimenting with unusual food combinations is the perfect way to create unique dining experiences that will surprise and delight your taste buds.  Before you start raiding the fridge, it is important to note that not everyone's taste buds are created equal. What tickles your palate might make someone else cringe. But life is short so take some risks! This year, don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Who knows what kind of fabulous flavour combinations you might discover! How about peanut butter and bacon sandwiches? Don't knock it until you've tried it! Are you tired of the same old boring excuses for being late or skipping events? It's time to unleash your creativity and come up with some truly out-of-the-box excuses that will leave everyone scratching their heads (or bursting into laughter). Late for work? How about blaming it on being abducted by aliens and having to negotiate your safe return - we all know that intergalactic diplomacy takes time! Don't feel like going to that boring family get together? Tell them you've been struck down with a sudden case of acute narcolepsy and can't stop falling asleep at random intervals. Want to avoid the washing up? Tell them, "sorry, I can't do the dishes, I've developed a rare condition called spongephobia and it's just too traumatic for me." The key to a good excuse is to bring a touch of absurdity and creativity to the situation. Just remember, the more outrageous and outlandish your excuse, the less likely anyone will question it. Next time you find yourself in a sticky situation, just remember - a little creativity and a lot of humour go a long way. And if all else fails, blame it on the cat.  Are you fed up with always feeling tired? It's time to embrace the art of napping and unleash its incredible benefits. Who wouldn't want to boost their mood, and increase alertness with a quick snooze? It's like a magic reset button for your brain! Creating the perfect nap environment is key. Snuggle up with some cosy blankets, put on some relaxing music, and get ready to drift off into dreamland. It's like a mini vacation without the hassle of packing. You can take napping to a whole new level. Find odd places to nap, like under your desk at work or in a shopping trolley at the supermarket. When you're tired, just nap wherever you can find a soft spot. Some might see it as a sign of laziness, but think of it as a talent worth developing. Who wouldn't want to take a snooze and wake up feeling like a new person? Forget the yoga classes and other traditional resolutions, it's time to embrace the weird and wonderful, get silly, and reduce stress! Whether it's learning to juggle, mastering the art of spoon bending, or perfecting your watermelon carving abilities, there's a whole world of silly skills out there just waiting to be explored. It may seem a little absurd at first, but, it's a great way to break out of your comfort zone and inject some lighthearted fun into your life.  Who knows, you might discover a hidden talent or passion that you never knew you had. And if not, at least you'll have some hilarious stories to share with friends and family. Pick up that unicycle, learn to speak fluent emoji, or perfect your animal balloon twisting abilities. The only limit is your imagination. Discovering your inner child doesn't mean throwing tantrums in the supermarket when they're out of your favourite cereal (although, that does sound like fun). I'm talking about revisiting the activities that made your heart sing when you were a kid. Go to the playground and swing on the swings, stomp in puddles and get soaked, or fly a kite, just for the pure joy of it all. Nostalgia has a powerful way of evoking happy memories and reducing stress. Who needs to give up carbs when you can have the pleasure of playing video games or building LEGO sets? This year, dedicate time to letting go of adult responsibilities, and just have fun! You'll be amazed at how much lighter and happier you'll feel. **If you'd like to find out more about freelancing at Unicorn Studios, book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/being-competitive-as-a-freelance-business-owner ### Title: Being competitive as a freelance business owner ### Page ID: 4756233 ### Content: ## UNICORN BLOG ## **Growth in the freelance industry** ## **Facing increased competition**  ## **Implementing an effective pricing strategy** ## **Continuously improve and update skills** ## **Tips for freelance business owners to maintain a competitive edge** ### 1\. Specialise to stand out from the competition ### 2\. Understand your target audience ### 3\. Position yourself as an expert ### 4\. Build a strong online presence ### 5\. Network and build relationships ### 6\. Deliver great customer service to retain clients ### 7\. Stay updated with industry trends and technology ## **Freelancing at Unicorn Studios** ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration In the fast-paced and ever-evolving freelance industry, being competitive as a business owner is essential for long-term success. With an increasing number of independent professionals entering the market, it is crucial for freelancers to continuously adapt and innovate in order to stand out from the competition. Embracing new technologies, staying updated on industry trends, diversifying skills, and actively networking with potential clients and colleagues are just a few strategies that can help freelancers remain competitive. The freelance industry is experiencing significant growth worldwide. As more individuals seek the flexibility and autonomy that freelance work offers, competition in the industry has become increasingly fierce. It is crucial for freelance professionals to remain competitive in order to stand out in a crowded market. There are numerous reasons driving people to seek freelance work, including the desire for work-life balance, the opportunity to pursue their passions, the potential for higher income, and the ability to work with a diverse range of clients. The Great Resignation, a global trend of employees leaving their traditional jobs in search of more fulfilling and flexible opportunities, has contributed to a surge in freelancer numbers. This further amplifies the need for freelance professionals to distinguish themselves in a competitive landscape. One way for freelance business owners to face the challenge of increased competition is to develop high-demand skills. Putting extra focus on niche expertise, and exceptional customer service can also differentiate them from the competition. Attending industry events, joining professional organisations, and actively engaging in online communities can enable freelancers to showcase their expertise and expand their reach to a wider audience. Collaborating with other professionals in the industry can also open up opportunities for larger projects, as well as provide support and mentorship. To start a successful freelance business, it is crucial to dedicate time to marketing and promotion. While it may seem daunting and time-consuming, investing in these activities can be really rewarding.  By consistently creating valuable and insightful content, you can attract potential clients and build credibility. This can be achieved through blog posts, informative videos, or engaging social media posts. It is an opportunity to give your prospective customers a peak behind the scenes, to see the person beyond the brand. People relate to people not businesses. In addition to producing content, actively promoting your services on social media platforms is equally important. Utilising social media to share your expertise and engage with your target audience can significantly boost your online presence and attract potential clients. Social media platforms attract different audiences. It is therefore important to maintain an active presence on platforms where your target audience is most likely to be found, irrespective of your individual preferences. It may be tempting to solely focus on client projects, but neglecting your own business's content marketing can hinder long-term growth. By investing time and energy into your own marketing efforts, you can experience a steady flow of prospective clients and ensure the sustainability of your freelance business. Attend workshops and conferences to stay updated with the latest trends Setting competitive pricing for your freelance services is crucial in order to attract clients and generate a steady income. **Research the market**: Take the time to understand the current rates in your industry and region. This will help you determine a competitive price range for your services. **Assess your skills and experience**: Consider your level of expertise, years of experience, and any specialised knowledge you bring to the table. These factors can influence the value you offer and justify a higher price. **Determine your worth**: It is important not to undervalue yourself. Consider the value you provide to clients, the quality of your work, and the results you can deliver. Setting a fair price that reflects your skills and worth is essential. **Price by project**: Instead of charging hourly rates, consider pricing by project. This allows you to provide a clear and upfront price to clients, based on the scope of the work. It also gives you the opportunity to showcase your efficiency and the level of service you provide. **Communicate clearly with clients**: Be transparent about your pricing structure and the factors that influence it. Clearly outline what is included in your services and any additional fees or expenses. This helps manage client expectations and ensures there are no surprises down the line. By setting competitive pricing for your freelance services, you position yourself as a professional in the industry and attract clients who are willing to pay for your expertise. Remember to regularly evaluate and adjust your pricing strategy based on market trends and your own growth as a freelancer. To stand out from the competition, it is important to specialise in a niche and craft a unique personal brand. Start by identifying a specific skill or expertise that sets you apart from others in your industry. Whether it's a particular technique, a specialised area of knowledge, or a unique perspective, honing in on this skill will differentiate you from the crowd. Understanding your target audience is key. Take the time to research and identify who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you can provide value to them. Tailoring your personal brand and messaging to appeal to this specific audience will help you to connect with them on a deeper level. Positioning yourself as an expert in your niche is essential. Consistently share your knowledge and insights on industry specific forums, and social media platforms, to build credibility and trust with your audience. Regularly engage with your followers, provide valuable content, and showcase your expertise to establish yourself as a go-to professional in your field. Building a strong online presence as a freelancer is essential for attracting potential clients and growing your business. Actively participate on professional platforms such as LinkedIn, Upwork, or Freelancer by sharing relevant articles, engaging in discussions, and connecting with other professionals in your industry. To boost visibility and attract more clients, optimise your LinkedIn profile, regularly update your website, publish blogs, and share success stories and testimonials from your previous clients. Attending networking events can be a great way to meet prospective clients and establish a professional connection, but they aren't for everyone. Sometimes walking into a room full of strangers can feel quite intimidating. Thankfully, in today's digital age, there are various online platforms that can help you build relationships and connect with potential clients. Join a relevant online community or forum, related to your business niche where you can interact with industry professionals, and potential clients. Participate in discussions, offer advice, and showcase your expertise to establish credibility and build valuable relationships. Building strong relationships and demonstrating excellence in customer service can set you apart as a freelancer and boost your reputation. Satisfied clients are more likely to provide repeat business, leading to a stable client base and consistent income. Happy clients are more inclined to refer new business, expanding your network and potentially leading to further growth. Staying updated with industry trends and technology is crucial for freelancers to remain competitive in the ever-evolving marketplace. Regularly reading sector-related material such as industry publications, blogs, and research reports can provide valuable insights into new developments and best practices. Networking with other freelancers and professionals through events, online forums, and social media can also provide valuable information and connections. Unicorn Studios has members across a wide sector of industries. Our friendly working environment and supportive community can provide opportunities for you to share what you do with like-minded professionals. Our members frequently enjoy collaborating on projects. **If you'd like to find out more about freelancing at Unicorn, book a tour of the studio below.** - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-andrew-harrigan ### Title: Meet the Members: Andrew Harrigan ### Page ID: 4933821 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **When working what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features Campaign Director, Andrew Harrigan, who took a two month trip to Chile, Argentina and Guatemala last year, and is planning a trip to Japan. He enjoys playing the guitar, and his heroes are Jimi Hendrix, Dave Gilmour, Lindsay Buckingham, and John Mayer. I'm currently working as a Campaign Director for a company called Reverse Media Group. Our primary source of business is through an affiliate partnership with Ebay but we also have a bunch of other sites and smaller partnerships. The company went fully remote during the pandemic and at that time I also decided to make the move from the chaos of the Big Smoke back home to the sunny shores of the Suffolk coastline where I grew up. Although remote work has its benefits, like being able to access the never ending supply of cupboard snacks or being able to tune into some terribly trashy daytime TV on my lunch break, it can get a bit lonely at times.   So after trying a few local cafes to break up the working week I quickly realised I needed a more permanent solution, with a desk and an environment where work was the priority instead of cappuccinos and cake (just to clarify there is nothing wrong with either of those things). So I did some googling and stumbled upon Unicorn Studios, I haven't looked back since and I feel this coworking space has the perfect balance of feeling a bit like a cafe (there's free coffee after all), and being able to get your head down, to crack on with some work whilst being surrounded by like-minded people. My first job was working at the Orwell Hotel in Felixstowe as a Silver Service Waiter, I loved that job! The true test of a good silver service waiter was the challenge of  trying to serve runner beans using a fork and a spoon whilst under pressure, in front of a big group of customers - I'm pretty sure I could still do this but it's not often I get the chance to utilise this skill anymore.  A number of projects I worked on contributed to our company taking the 8th spot in the 2019 Sunday Times Tech Track 100, which is a list of the fastest growing tech companies. We also appeared on the list again in 2020. In my 20s, I was firmly in the night owl category. Late nights were pretty normal and I was guilty of burning the candle at both ends.  I used to live in a 7 bed house share, so any night of the week was fair game for drinks or general shenanigans. Nowadays I'm definitely more of an early bird so late night games of poker or a Tuesday night gig in Camden have been replaced with early morning dog walks on Felixstowe beach or a jog whilst watching the sun come up.  We visited Chile, Argentina and Guatemala last year on a two month trip, the highlight of this had to be hiking the 45 mile "W" Trek in the Torres Del Paine national park in Chile. The views in that area are out of this world and every day you discover new landscapes from jagged mountain peaks to glaciers. We stayed in little hostels in the mountains along the way called Refugios, and you get to spend the evening having a beer with the other backpackers from around the world.  We would love to go back one day and complete the "O" trek which takes you on a complete loop of the park, but it takes around 10 days to complete and requires a fair amount of planning.  I play a bit of guitar in my spare time, and have played a few live performances at pubs, and also on stage in front of a few hundred people. The stage performance was part of a group I signed up to called The Guitar Social, where you are put in a band, and tasked with learning 3 songs.  After 8 weeks of practice we had to perform on stage. It was kind of nerve racking, but incredibly fun, and I'd love to do it again.  Guitar is something I always go back to, I often have periods where I don't play for a while, and then all of a sudden I'm hooked again. My guitar heroes are Jimi Hendrix, Dave Gilmour, Lindsay Buckingham, and John Mayer. We have just moved house, so all of the focus is currently on decorating bedrooms, so the guitars are gathering dust at the minute, but hopefully I'll pick them up again soon.  We are currently planning a 3 week trip to Japan. It's a country that's been high on my list for a while so we're hoping we can really do the place justice in that timescale. With most places I visit though, it's generally the food and meeting the locals that I get most excited about, so I'm sure Japan will not disappoint. I would be a pro skateboarder, I loved skating when I was a kid, but was never any good at it. The closest I ever came to living out this dream was playing the OG Tony Hawk's pro skater on the playstation.  What a game (and what a soundtrack as well)! Being able to do these tricks for real would be so much fun, and I could travel the world entering the X games. Beans on toast whilst watching Bargain Hunt - British culture at its finest.   **Dave Grohl** - I've seen Foo Fighters live more times than I can remember so hanging out with Dave would be a dream come true, and maybe he would ask me to join the band...in this alternate reality they've probably fallen on hard times. **Alex Honnold** - after watching the movie Free Solo, where he climbs El Capitan without any ropes, I'd love to know how anyone has the courage to do something like that. I was sweating just watching it on screen.  **Sir Bobby Robson** - a true Ipswich Town legend, and apparently he was the nicest man in football. He would have had some amazing anecdotes from his time managing some of the best teams in the world. I'm inclined to say a tiny unicorn but it could go either way, I think you could have more fun going under the radar as a tiny unicorn, and I'm pretty sure they have some untapped magic powers, which would be fun to explore. I'm thinking the giant hamster would just roll around town being chased by crazy kids looking for the world's biggest pet. I'm not sure how fun that would be. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-founders-steve-butterworth ### Title: Meet the Founders: Steve Butterworth ### Page ID: 5084805 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself** ### **Why did you start Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **When working what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Founder" features Software Developer, Steve Butterworth, who is one of the three founders of Unicorn Studios. He is a keen cyclist, loves to travel, and has recently become "slightly obsessed with the Wim Hof Method", which involves breathing exercises followed by an iced bath or a chilly dip in the sea or river. I live in Ipswich near Christchurch Park with my wife Gayle, 16 year old son Noah and cockapoo Bonnie. I’m from Yorkshire and came down here for my first job after university, met Gayle just after the millennium, the rest as they say is history. In my day job I’m a software developer, freelancing for the last 15 years. There have been 2 big ongoing projects in that time. Firstly, I lead development on the busiest environmental job website in the UK [environmentjob.co.uk](http://environmentjob.co.uk), they’re a great little team and I have always loved working with them. The other project I had for over 10 years was building 3D web and big screen fan experiences for major sporting events like The [](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7vppeEPewE)[Open Golf Championships](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7vppeEPewE), the Tour De France and the Indie 500. For the past year or so I’ve cut down my freelancing a lot, particularly the sports events work to focus on building a Software as a Service business. The dream of getting paid even while I sleep is too much to not give it a proper go! I built a [website change monitoring service called Trackly](https://trackly.io) for a client about 7 years ago and have now bought it from the client, polished it up, talked to a bunch of customers and am frantically adding features and marketing. I have a big vision and there’s a long road ahead, but crossing my fingers ?. Along with Rob and Dan, I’m one of the 3 founders of the studios. I met Rob at a University of Suffolk co-working space where we were both members. We got kicked out when they wanted to make it into a cafe, so we looked around Ipswich, didn’t like the available options and decided to start our own space. I’ve known Dan for years, he has kindly helped get me some great freelancing gigs over the years and when I told him about the Unicorn Studios project he was keen to get involved. We wanted a space that was more of a community than other co-working spaces, more creative and casual too. We didn’t want a space that felt like a 9-5 office or an anonymous grey office block, we left proper jobs to get away from that kind of thing. So it needed to be an interesting space filled with interesting people and I think we’ve got there! We run it completely not-for-profit. We just want it to be able to sustain itself so it can stay around longer than the average Ipswich town centre business. My first job was a paper round, and to this day it’s my longest proper employed job. I had it for about 4 years and starting on £11 a week for a 7 day a week round. I was happy with that, it was enough for a new cassette album or gig ticket every week and that’s all I cared about. I held it down longer than any full-time programming job I’ve had since so maybe that was my true calling after all. I’m hoping it will be Trackly, eventually, which I plan to rebrand as ChangeFlow. But otherwise I guess I am proud of the work I’ve done on helping [environmentjob.co.uk](https://environmentjob.co.uk). Also proud of winning awards for the online interactive fan experience we did for The Open in 2022. It was viewed by several million people across the world in one weekend, it was a painful and stressful experience, but nice to have your work seen and enjoyed by so many people. I’m definitely a night owl. Despite my early success as a paperboy (to this day I have no idea how I did it). I have very little memory of it and people used to say they saw me but I never saw them so I must have managed to do it without actually waking up. For years I would do my best work in the evening but now I’m a bit more normal, or lazy perhaps, and enjoy a damn good box set or film, with the wood burner on and a glass of wine with my wife. We’re only a few months into 2024 so hopefully a lot more memories to be made but one thing that sticks out so far is our half term trip to Cornwall. We stayed at a beach house with hot tub and sauna which makes it glorious even in February. Hot tub, bluetooth speaker and a G&T in hand was just the ticket. That along with several bracing beach walks and a very cold sea swim definitely helped me hit the reset button. I’m not sure it’s a hidden talent but I’m currently slightly obsessed with the Wim Hof Method and meet up with a local group to do breathing exercises followed by an ice bath, which I absolutely love. I have a cold shower every morning and try and get in the sea or a river when possible for a quick chilly dip. Like I say, not a talent, I can’t think of any of those, just my current fixation! Once Noah finishes his GCSEs this summer we’re heading off to Menorca and then onto Madrid and Granada for a 3 week travelling holiday. I haven’t been away for that long in decades and I have never been to any of these parts of Spain so really looking forward to it. We all love travelling. Also I’m big into my cycling and Rob told me about the Wolf Way which he’s been doing some design work for. It’s a 250 mile on and off road loop of Suffolk which I really want to do in the next couple of months whilst taking dips in rivers and the North Sea a long the way I’d be an accomplished pianist I think. I had lessons for about a year a few years back but my brain isn’t as spongy as it used to be so I gave up in despair at my lack of progress. I love strumming my guitar and playing piano badly in the privacy of my own home but I like the idea of be a traditionally trained piano prodigy. I have a few things that help get me through the working day - Twitter, Kombucha and the Chris Evans Breakfast show. I do really like my work these days but still staring at a screen all day gets old. **Richard Branson -** He divides opinion but I think it’s hard to argue with his achievements and his life story. He’s inspired a whole generation of entrepreneurs especially in this country and I love his positive outlook on life and humanity. **David Heinemeier Hanson** - A Danish programmer and entrepreneur whose achievements I find pretty inspiring. His opinionated and potty-mouthed communication style is in equal parts, educational and entertaining. **Kurt Cobain** - I’m reading his biography *Heavier than Heaven* at the moment so he springs to mind. Not sure he would have found it quite entertaining enough in Unicorn Studios but he’d be 57 now if he was still with us so I reckon he would’ve calmed down a bit and likes nothing more than a casual co-working session and chat in Ipswich. In-fact, I’m pretty sure he’d even join me for a cheeky Kombucha or two. It would have to be a tiny unicorn. The only thing hamsters have going for them is they are cute and I’m pretty sure a giant hamster would just be this big hairy obese thing that can’t fit through doors. As a tiny unicorn I can go anywhere undetected, be nosey and have fun jabbing people with my horn if they annoy me. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/the-brighton-marathon-our-members-photo-journal ### Title: The Brighton Marathon: Our members photo journal ### Page ID: 5190165 ### Content: ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration Congratulations to our studio members, James Crisp and Rob Simpson for completing the Brighton Marathon! - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-mark-king ### Title: Meet the Members: Mark King ### Page ID: 5357189 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **When working what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features Illustrator Mark King, who designed our coat of arms on the Studio wall. He can consume his own weight in Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough ice-cream, and is learning to create clay sculptures. I am a freelance illustrator, who enjoys creating both hand-drawn and digital art. My work is usually focused on fictitious characters, mythological creatures, and folklore. My illustration style is an expression of my personality, and not just a professional activity. I can struggle with allowing my artwork to be used in a commercial context because I feel so attached to what I create.  I am a member of Unicorn Studios because I met the founders at the university’s Waterfront Studios, whilst studying Graphic Design. When it shut down I needed an alternative working environment, so I was delighted when Rob and Steve decided to set up a co-working space.  Five years on, I’m still there, despite inflicting pain on other members, with my bad jokes. I see this as getting my money's worth! My first job was working part-time as a Customer Service Assistant at Wilko Retail while I was studying Graphic Design at university. Prior to this I really struggled with speaking to anyone I didn’t know.  I have always felt awkward, and unable to express my opinions out of fear that I would be misunderstood. Working in a customer service role, despite being challenging, helped me to grow in confidence, and become more comfortable in social environments. I am most proud of finishing the Coat of Arms for Unicorn Studios as it bears our motto - Create, Unite, Inspire. It has pride of place on the main Studio wall, and is often commented on by visitors. In the beginning, it was challenging to design the unicorns as my skills at drawing horses were definitely not the best. But despite that, the biggest challenge with this commission was choosing the right words for our Studio motto. It needed to be something that embodied the core principles of our Studio while being short and effective. It helped brainstorming ideas with other members, and everybody got to be a part in the creation of what is effectively our Studios identity. Definitely a night owl! When I was a kid, my parents would send me to bed, and I would secretly draw or watch TV, with the volume down really low, until I felt ready to sleep in the early hours. Whilst studying Art and Design at college, I discovered that my creative ideas flow better at night, while everything is quiet. I don’t have the noise of everyday activity distracting me. When I left home, and moved into my first flat, my parents kindly let me take my bed. Although it was nice having something familiar in a new environment, I started getting an itch for a change, a few months ago.  Purchasing my bed was very spontaneous, within an hour of searching through various designs, it was ordered. This impulsive decision making is out of character. Normally, I’m slow to embrace change, and am very methodical. Being so decisive, and impulsive felt fun and liberating. I hope to have more moments like this! Whilst my creativity is generally expressed through illustration, I am also quite good at painting in acrylics too. It has been quite a while since I painted on a canvas, but for me it's just like riding a bicycle, you never really forget it. I plan to make some clay sculptures, as I have been recently inspired by YouTube and Instagram artists’ models of animals, and godlike figurines.  I am really fascinated by their creative processes, and would love to develop my own techniques. I’ve already purchased the tools, and some of the materials, but I’m still exploring different sculpting methods before embarking on my first project. I would love to become an animator! Although illustration is my passion, a lot of the time I find myself yearning to bring the characters I draw to life. I’ve always had a soft spot for animation. I grew up watching stop motion Disney and Aardman films on repeat because I was fascinated by how they were able to create such life-like movements. I particularly admire the creators of Wallace and Gromit, and movies by Laika Studios Rewarding myself with lots of gingernut biscuits, and a tub of my favourite Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough ice-cream, even though I haven’t ticked off the things from my to-do-list. I’ve really struggled with this question because I enjoy my own company, and it can be difficult to work alongside other creatives. However, after much consideration, if I had to choose, they would be: **Molly Crabapple** - She is an American artist and writer. Her Puppet Makers comic book inspired my illustration work during College. I became obsessed with drawing 18th Century French aristocrats. **Steve Simpson** - He is a Dublin based illustrator who is renowned for his hand lettering, and character designs, inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, and 50’s advertising. He was one of the first artists to adopt the new Affinity software, and his sponsorship inspired me to try it for myself. It would be great to have some one-to-one tutorials! **Mike Mignola** - He is an American comic book artist, best known for writing and illustrating the Hell Boy comics. I took a shine to his method of blocky shaped characters, and use of shadows to create a sense of intensity, and focus. I would rather be a giant hamster because I would stand less chance of becoming part of the food chain, and I would munch on Skyscrapers. - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-simon-talbot ### Title: Meet the Members: Simon Talbot ### Page ID: 5640712 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **When working what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month's "Meet the Member" features Freelance Writer Simon Talbot, who specialises in creating audio guides for historical and cultural sites around the world. He also narrates and produces a podcast about badly behaved historical figures called Rogues Gallery Uncovered. I’m a freelance writer specialising in writing multimedia and audio guides for historical, artistic and cultural sites. This means that sometimes I get to visit fascinating places such as Hegra in Saudi Arabia, The Taj Mahal and The Giants Causeway or explore The National Gallery, Edinburgh Castle, and The Royal Collection.  Most of the time however I’m sat in front of a screen on my own with a pile of reference books and multiple open browser tabs trying to hone a script.  I’m also a freelance voice-over artist which means I’m often sat on my own in a recording booth narrating commercials, e-learning presentations, explainer videos and – surprise, surprise -audio guides.   Both of these jobs are varied and enjoyable, but the common denominator is that I do them on my own and sometimes, my own company – and the sound of my own voice when I’m editing - drives me to distraction.  I come to Unicorn to work in a space where there are other professional people with whom I can swap ideas, get feedback, inspiration and have a laugh. It’s become an important part of my working week.  I worked in a book warehouse when I was 17 or 18. I became a dab hand at steering heavy pallet loads of paperbacks and using a tape dispenser. I love reading so being surrounded by books was great and I have fond memories of zooming between the shelves while ‘Close To Me’ by The Cure - my favourite band – was playing over the tannoy.  One of my first writing gigs was creating a new family tour for The National Gallery. I came up with ‘Teach Your Grown Ups About Art’, which gave children exclusive facts, their adult companions would not know.  The idea was that instead of being lectured to by parents, teachers etc, kids got the chance to teach adults a thing or two about the art they were enjoying. The tour was nominated for a Museums and Heritage Award and, I think, ran for about ten years. I’m also pretty proud of a tour of Doune Castle in Scotland – Where Monty Python and the Holy Grail was filmed – which was narrated by medievalist and Python, the late Terry Jones – who, I’m told, liked it! Aerial view of Doune Castle in Scotland (Wikipedia) My brain tells me that getting up and seizing the day is best but my body refuses to let me wake up early and then won’t stop when I get into a groove, so I burn a lot of midnight oil.  My wife and I went to Tromso in Norway for her 50th birthday which was amazing.  She had always dreamed of seeing the Northern lights and not only did we see them several times - from a minus 14 degrees roadside in Finland, the deck of a boat off the coast and the side of a mountain, but they put on a phenomenal display above our heads when we were sitting in an outdoor hot tub. I have recorded voiceovers wearing my pyjama bottoms and on one memorable occasion just my underpants – I was playing the part of a polar bear for a reason which escapes me.  I regularly pause during long writing or editing sessions to play loud, jangly 80s indie music, 60s mod tunes or 90s Britpop and have been known to sing, dance and play air guitar when no one is around.  I write, narrate and produce a podcast about badly behaved historical figures called Rogues Gallery Uncovered.  I have been talking about writing a book based on it for ages and this is the year.  Playing the guitar – I can pose like a guitar hero, but I can’t play a note.  I own an instrument and once guested with a band playing one song in front of an audience – a very very easy Snow Patrol number – as a challenge for The Ipswich Star.  I imagine performing music is really cathartic and wigging out like Townsend, Weller, or Coxon must feel great but sadly it requires talent and practice. I have very fast reactions and am always making spectacular catches of things falling off shelves and out of cupboards but there is never anyone around to see me do it which is very frustrating.  I once broke my little finger catching a bottle of beer as it fell from the fridge so it’s a curse as well as a blessing.  **George MacDonald Fraser,** the author of the famous ‘Flashman’ novels because they are my favourite books, they turned me on to history and they were my first adult appreciation of how wonderfully the English language could be used.  **Bob Mortimer,** because no one makes me laugh like him. My favourite superhero – we’ve all got one – is Ant-Man.  He has the strength of a full-grown man even when he is the size of a small insect.  I will therefore opt to be a tiny unicorn with the strength of a giant hamster. Would I use my abilities for good or evil? YOU decide.   **LinkedIn** - [https://www.linkedin.com/in/simontalbotvoice](https://www.linkedin.com/in/simontalbotvoice) **Rogues Gallery Uncovered Podcast** \- [https://www.roguesgalleryonline.com/](https://www.roguesgalleryonline.com/) - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [ABOUT](/about "ABOUT") - [MEMBERSHIP](/membership "MEMBERSHIP") - [AD HOC COWORKING](/ad-hoc-coworking "AD HOC COWORKING") - [FACILITIES](/facilities "FACILITIES") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") - [BLOG](/blog "BLOG") - [Coworking Facilities](/facilities "Coworking Facilities") - [Meeting Facilities](/meeting-rooms "Meeting Facilities") - [Main Studio](/main-studio "Main Studio") --- ## URL: https://www.unicornipswich.co.uk/meet-the-members-chloe-plumstead ### Title: Meet the Members: Chloe Plumstead ### Page ID: 5929377 ### Content: ### **Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?** ### **What was your first job?** ### **What work accomplishment are you most proud of?** ### **Are you an early bird or a night owl?** ### **What’s one of your favourite memories this year?** ### **When working what is your guilty pleasure?** ### **What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?** ### **If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?** ### **What is your hidden talent?** ### **What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?** ### Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster? ## Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios ### Productivity ### Work-life balance ### Cost effective ### Collaboration This month’s "Meet the Member" features digital marketer, and content creator Chloe Plumstead. In her spare time, she loves gardening. She has recently teamed up with Feverfew Garden Company, to design her, “dream pair of gardening gloves”. Hello! My name is Chloe and I work in digital marketing & content creation. I joined Unicorn back in 2021 having been self-employed and working from home for a decent stretch of time. I really missed the office experience, perhaps not working *for* someone or the politics but sharing a space with friendly, chatty people who will almost always offer to make you a tea. It’s been over three years now and I still love coming in. I’ve made some great friends and somehow I haven’t been asked to give my keys back (yet). I worked on a burger van when I was 13/14. My main responsibilities were taking orders, making teas, coffees and sandwiches and trying not to get in the way too much. I spent a lot of time reading the newspaper and eating ketchup sandwiches (a delicacy), plus I got paid £40 a day which I’d promptly spend after getting the bus into town.  I worked with the independent gardening brand Feverfew this year to release a pair of [limited edition gardening gloves](https://feverfewgarden.co.uk/products/feverfew-women-s-gardening-gloves-copy)[,](https://feverfewgarden.co.uk/products/feverfew-women-s-gardening-gloves) which was a really exciting moment for me. I love gardening and growing and I create a lot of content from my garden, so it’s super special to see other passionate gardeners wearing the gloves I helped design. They have little mushrooms on! So sweet. But they’re also fantastically hardy, designed to fit women’s hands specifically AND we released an XS size for people with diddy hands. More so an early bird but I still enjoy a little lay-in. Once I’m out of bed I’m full of beans, though, whereas past 8pm my daily battery has depleted (unless there’s prosecco involved). I come from a family of terrible sleepers so it’s a rite of passage that at a certain age, 4am becomes your normal wake up time. I get an automatic text from my Mum’s phone each morning when she goes for her walk at 4:30am. I’m not quite there yet, but I definitely prefer to have a fuller morning than a fuller evening. I had the pleasure of attending three weddings this summer so being surrounded by friends and food while watching people I care about get married has been truly special. My brother took me back to Edinburgh for my 30th too which I loved - beautiful city, great food and an even better Botanic Garden. Talking to my cat, eating loads of biscuits and procrastinating by measuring up for DIY projects which I’ll never start, let alone finish. I love watching Twitch streams, too. Going on holiday outside of Europe! I’m not big into holidays, really - I love being at home - so all of my trips have been within the UK or Europe. I’m planning on going further afield next year which is slightly stressful but also very exciting. Chloe displaying the Maple Mushroom Gloves she co-designed This is a tricky one because there are so many things I wish I had the talent for. There are too many things to know! I’d love to be able to play the piano or speak French but I’m not sure how useful those skills would be. It would probably make more sense to snap my fingers and become an expert in trading or something financial but that’s hideously boring, isn’t it? I’d love to know how to make a cabinet, to understand wood grain and angles and the geometry of putting things together with your hands. Perhaps an expert in poetry, so I could quote magnificent lines and irritate other people with my lyricism and memory.  I really don’t think I have any..? I certainly wouldn’t hide it, anyway. I’ll let everyone know if I think I’m good at something. I’m humble like that. I’m pretty good at remembering song lyrics but I’m not sure that’s an inviting talent for anybody but myself, because unfortunately for those around me, they have to hear me singing them. **Marc Rebillet -** he’s a musician who often shares videos on YouTube or streams mini street concerts live. He has the energy of nineteen Duracell bunnies, is extremely talented and seems like he’d be utter chaos. He also happens to be hot. **Si King** - of the Hairy Bikers duo. If I’m assembling a dream coworker set-up then we obviously need a chef, and he seems so lovely, like somebody’s friendly Dad. He’d be able to give me a lift home on his bike too so it’s basically a 2-for-1 with the lunch & transport. **Miriam Margolyes** - pure vibes. So funny. I’d just let her engage in a stream of consciousness and listen. I think she’d be hilarious in combination with the other two guests, too.  It depends on scale. Hamsters are already tiny so would a giant hamster just be the size of a dog? A horse? If so, I choose hamster. I could live a relatively norm