CEO: An early Coworking Vibe; Hewlett-Packard?
OK, this might seem like quite a stretch, but hear me out. My early days at HP felt a lot like what I feel in great Coworking spaces today. We’re talking nearly 40 years ago!
How HP Mirrored Coworking Principles
1. Community & Collaboration
HP fostered a culture of teamwork, open communication, and sharing ideas, similar to coworking spaces that emphasize community building and networking.
2. Employee-Centric Culture
The HP Way prioritized respect, trust, and employee empowerment, aligning with the coworking ethos of valuing individual autonomy and creating a positive environment.
3. Innovative Environment
HP promoted innovation through collaborative efforts and resource sharing, much like coworking spaces facilitate cross-pollination of ideas among diverse professionals.
4. Flexible and Open Work Philosophy
Although not flexible in hours like modern freelancers or remote workers, HP’s culture encouraged open-door policies and collaboration across departments, reflecting a more flexible, less hierarchical approach to work.
Who Cares? Or, why should you care?
Hewlett-Packard’s culture of collaboration, trust, and innovation—long before coworking spaces existed—laid the groundwork for modern workplace communities.
By recognizing this legacy, you can see your space as part of a tradition of trailblazing that challenges norms, fosters creativity, and empowers individuals. It’s a reminder that at the heart of coworking is the same pioneering spirit that made HP a Silicon Valley legend.
I urge us all to embrace this history, and continue to build spaces that inspire, connect, and innovate—just like those early innovators did.
Here’s to a Silicon Valley pioneer, and where I started my career! As anyone who will listen has heard me say for the past couple years about coworking, “Why in the world would anyone work any other way?“
– Reed Thompson, CEO
