5 top tips for great coworking etiquette

Working from a coworking space can seem quite different to working in your standard office space. You can be more flexible, coming and going as you please, and people are usually much more laid back. But don’t let that make you think that anything goes; no one wants to be that one annoying person in the office, even in coworking. Here we share our top tips for making sure you’re a delightful coworker. As much as these aren’t die-hard rules to live by while coworking, try and take them on board.

Sharing is caring
A lot of coworking spaces will offer you access to meeting rooms as part of your package. But remember these rooms are for everyone, and they might even be used by people outside of your coworking space. Chances are if you’re constantly booking out the conference space, 9-5, for days on end, people are going to start getting annoyed.

Mind the noise
Some coworking spaces might seem more social than your traditional office, but everyone is still likely to want some peace and quiet from time to time. If it’s obvious someone is trying to have some quiet time, or is making use of any break out spaces, then try to keep the noise down.

Also, don’t be that guy who has really loud conversations on the phone. It’s distracting for everyone and your fellow coworkers are not going to thank you for it. Especially if you’re having private conversations, take it elsewhere; coworking spaces will usually have places where you can go to make those important phone calls.

Keep it clean
It should really go without saying, but since you’re sharing with other people, make sure to keep things tidy. The building might have cleaners, but they’re not going to be there 24/7 to sort out your mess. This goes for meeting rooms, communal spaces and kitchen areas. Plus, don’t forget about the desks if you’re signed up to a hot desk package.

And while we’re talking about kitchens; they are there for a reason. If you’ve got some particularly smelly food for lunch, it’s probably best to eat it there rather than smelling out (and annoying) the whole office.

Air con wars
Now this is a whole other debate, even in a conventional office setting, and it can get even more difficult when you’re in a space where people are coming in and out throughout the day. If you know you’re usually warmer or colder than the rest of the community in your space, maybe just try adding or losing layers, rather than fiddling with the settings all the time.

Be part of the community
This is less about etiquette and more about making the most of your coworking experience. Coworking gives you the opportunity to work side-by-side with like-minded individuals in a social environment, so take advantage of meeting new people. They might end up helping you on a project, or you could even end up making new friends for life.

This being said, if the coworking space does have community rules, make sure you abide by them. You’re more likely to be seen as a great coworker if you’re really embedding yourself in the community. If you’re unsure about the rules, you can always ask your community manager.

Fancy making your move into being part of a coworking community? Find out more about our coworking spaces across the North and the Midlands.