Considerate Coworking – The Do’s And Don’ts Of Coworking Etiquette

There is so much evolution in the business world nowadays that it sometimes be difficult to keep up with the latest developments and advances. From new technologies to more flexible office solutions, the business landscape in Australia is developing at an incredible rate and it’s an exciting time to be in business. To streamline your business processes and move closer to your goals, it’s important that you understand how these new developments can benefit your business and embrace the latest trends.

Coworking is one development in office solutions that has seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years, as it opens up so much freedom and flexibility in terms of how we work. A coworking office gives entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and those travelling for business an opportunity to work from a well-equipped space while being surrounded by other like-minded people in a productive environment. However, as you are working alongside other people every day in a coworking space, it’s crucial that you understand proper coworking etiquette and what others will expect of you in these spaces. 

Let’s take a look at just some of the do’s and don’ts of coworking etiquette so that you can be productive and professional while you work.  

Be Respectful

One thing that you should always keep in mind when using a coworking space is that other people are sharing the space with you. Remember, other professionals are here to try and get their work done, grow their business and meet deadlines too, so make sure you are respectful of others in the space at all times. Be sure to clean up after yourself and leave the space you are working in as you found it. No one wants to be ‘that person’ that everyone else whispers about so just don’t be ‘that person’. Being respectful of others in the coworking space will help you build positive relationships with the other users.  

Keep The Volume Down

 It’s understandable that you might have to make phone calls during work hours and these conversations can sometimes get heated and intense when you’re dealing with clients, support services and other members of your team. No matter what turn a conversation might take, be sure to keep in mind that you are in a shared space when you’re on the phone. You wouldn’t appreciate other people screaming and yelling in the background while you are trying to work, so don’t do it to others. Phone etiquette goes both ways, so keep the volume at a respectable level and keep everyone on side. 

Be Social But Don’t Be Pushy

Not everyone in the world is a social butterfly. Some people are more introverted while others are complete extroverts who want to get to know everyone around them. Being friendly and social in the coworking environment is important as the people around you are going to be part of your work life, even if it is just for a few hours a day. Go the extra mile, be nice to people and say a quick hello. However, if someone is reluctant to engage, don’t be pushy. They might be under pressure to complete a project, having problems with a client or maybe there’s something going on in their personal life that’s bothering them. Just try to keep a positive demeanour to keep the working environment light and breezy for everyone.

Be Mindful Of Your Food Choices

Have you ever been in the lunchroom and a coworker brings food from home that completely envelops everything in its odour? We have all been there and no one appreciates having to deal with it. Choose your lunch and your snacks wisely and check the rules to see if you can eat at your desk or if there is a designated area. You might be looking forward to that egg salad sandwich but those around you might not. 

Keep Coworking Etiquette In Mind

Coworking spaces offer so many advantages but its important that you treat the space with respect and remain mindful of those around you. You might not work directly with those around you but you are all sharing the space together so it’s important to be aware of what might be perceived as negative behaviour. Make sure that you don’t leave a mess behind you, keep the volume to a minimum when you’re making calls and leave those smelly snacks at home. With a little care and consideration, the coworking space can be a productive and comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy together.