Coworking spaces have become a central hub for many freelancers, remote workers, startups, and even larger companies looking for flexible office solutions. These shared spaces provide an opportunity to collaborate, meet like-minded professionals, and enjoy the perks of a fully equipped workspace without the overhead of renting a private office.

However, with the benefits of coworking spaces come the need for a little courtesy and consideration. After all, you’re sharing a workspace with other individuals, and maintaining a respectful environment is key to ensuring that everyone can work efficiently, comfortably, and without unnecessary distractions.

Whether you’re new to coworking or a seasoned pro, understanding the basic coworking space etiquette is crucial for making a positive impression and contributing to the overall vibe of the space.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential dos and don’ts of coworking space etiquette, covering everything from noise levels and shared spaces to respecting personal boundaries in both physical and virtual environments.

Why Coworking Space Etiquette Matters?

When you choose to work in a coworking space, you are sharing a work environment with a diverse group of people from various industries, professions, and backgrounds. This means that your actions can directly impact the productivity and comfort of others. Whether you’re renting a desk at a bustling coworking center or participating in a virtual coworking session, being aware of proper etiquette will help you:

• Create a Positive Work Environment: Mutual respect is the foundation of any coworking space. When everyone is mindful of each other’s needs, the space is more enjoyable for all.
• Build Strong Relationships: Networking in coworking spaces is an essential part of the experience, and making a good impression can open doors for new opportunities and collaborations.
• Maximize Productivity: A space where people respect each other’s space, noise preferences, and personal boundaries is much more conducive to focus and productivity.

Now, let’s dive into the key aspects of coworking space etiquette that you need to know.

The Dos of Coworking Space Etiquette

1. Be Mindful of Noise Levels

In a shared workspace, noise can quickly become a major distraction. While some coworking spaces may have designated quiet areas, others might embrace a more open and social environment. Regardless, it’s important to be mindful of your noise levels.

• Keep conversations quiet: If you need to chat with a colleague or make a phone call, try to speak in a soft voice. If you’re in a shared space with many people, consider using a private call booth or stepping into a designated phone area to minimize disruption.
• Use headphones: If you’re listening to music or participating in a virtual meeting, always wear headphones. This will prevent your audio from spilling into the shared space and distracting others.
• Respect quiet hours: Some coworking spaces have quiet hours or areas where noise is restricted. Be aware of these guidelines and adhere to them, particularly during times when other members may need to focus.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether your noise level is disturbing others, simply ask someone nearby if it’s affecting them. A little self-awareness can go a long way.

2. Clean Up After Yourself

Coworking spaces are shared environments, and maintaining cleanliness and order is a sign of respect for others. Whether you’re using a hot desk, a meeting room, or the kitchen area, here are some tips:

• Tidy up your workspace: At the end of the day, leave your area clean and organized for the next person. Don’t leave food scraps, papers, or personal belongings behind.
• Clean shared equipment: If you’re using common resources like printers, scanners, or meeting rooms, make sure you clean up after yourself. Wipe down surfaces and leave equipment ready for the next person.
• Handle shared spaces with care: In a coworking space, you’ll likely encounter communal kitchen areas, bathrooms, or lounge areas. Always clean up after using these spaces. Wash your dishes, throw away trash, and leave things as you found them.

3. Respect Personal Space

Even though you’re sharing a space with others, everyone needs their own room to work and focus. When you’re in a coworking space, make sure to respect personal boundaries:

• Choose your desk carefully: If you’re in a hot desk environment, choose a spot that allows you to work without crowding others. Avoid sitting too close to someone unless the space requires it.
• Don’t invade others’ space: Be mindful of your personal belongings, and avoid encroaching on others’ workstations. If you’re in a shared office area, keep your belongings within the limits of your desk.
• Mind your body language: Personal space is not just about physical boundaries but also how you interact with others. Be aware of your body language in shared spaces – avoid hovering over others’ shoulders or standing too close.

4. Be Considerate with Shared Resources

Coworking spaces often come with shared resources, such as meeting rooms, printers, and internet access. Make sure you’re using these resources responsibly:

• Book meeting rooms in advance: If your coworking space has bookable meeting rooms, use the scheduling system to book rooms for client calls, team meetings, or interviews. Don’t assume the space will be available when you need it – plan ahead.
• Use equipment sparingly: Don’t monopolize shared printers, computers, or other equipment for extended periods. Make sure you are using these resources efficiently, and avoid wasting paper or ink.
• Follow the rules: Every coworking space has its own set of guidelines for how shared resources are to be used. These may include limitations on printer usage, kitchen protocols, or booking times for conference rooms. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines and follow them accordingly.

5. Network and Build Relationships

Coworking spaces offer ample opportunities for networking, so take the time to introduce yourself to fellow coworkers. Building professional relationships can lead to collaborations, job opportunities, and more. Here’s how to network effectively:

• Be approachable: A simple “Hello” or “How’s your day going?” can break the ice and lead to meaningful connections. Don’t be shy about striking up a conversation.
• Attend community events: Many coworking spaces host networking events, workshops, or social hours. Attend these events to meet people and build connections with other members.
• Offer value to others: Networking is a two-way street. Offer assistance, share insights, or collaborate with others to build strong relationships.

The Don’ts of Coworking Space Etiquette

1. Don’t Take Up More Space Than You Need

While coworking spaces provide flexible workspaces, it’s important not to take up more room than necessary. If you’re working at a hot desk, avoid spreading your belongings all over the workspace, especially if it’s busy. Keep your area organized and confined to your immediate workspace.

• Avoid overcrowding communal areas: If you’re working in a shared lounge or kitchen area, be mindful of how much space you’re using. Don’t leave your belongings scattered across communal spaces, and avoid blocking paths or other workstations.

2. Don’t Be Disruptive or Rude

Disruptive behavior is one of the quickest ways to ruin the atmosphere in a coworking space. Whether it’s loud talking, excessive noise, or disrespecting someone’s personal space, being rude or inconsiderate can lead to tension among coworkers.

• Avoid interrupting others: If someone is focused or in a meeting, don’t interrupt unless it’s urgent. Be respectful of their time and space.
• Mind your tone and behavior: Be polite and respectful in all interactions. Whether it’s in person or online, maintain a professional demeanor to foster a positive environment.

3. Don’t Overstay Your Welcome in Shared Spaces

Many coworking spaces have designated times for using specific resources or areas, such as meeting rooms, break areas, or phone booths. If you’re using a shared resource, don’t overstay your welcome:

• Respect time limits: If you’re using a meeting room or phone booth, keep an eye on the time to ensure that you don’t exceed your booking slot.
• Leave when others need the space: If the space is in high demand, be prepared to vacate shared areas when others need to use them.

4. Don’t Leave Personal Items Unattended

In a coworking space, leaving personal belongings unattended can lead to disorganization and potential misunderstandings. Always keep your personal items within your workspace and avoid leaving them in communal areas:

• Secure your belongings: If you’re stepping away from your desk, take your valuables with you, or ensure they are stored securely.
• Don’t leave items behind: Whether it’s a jacket, laptop, or bag, don’t leave your things unattended in communal spaces.

5. Don’t Neglect Internet Etiquette

In today’s digital world, internet etiquette is just as important as physical workspace behavior, especially in coworking environments. When you’re in a shared workspace, many people rely on the Wi-Fi network for communication, research, and collaboration.

• Don’t consume too much bandwidth: Avoid activities that take up excessive bandwidth, such as streaming videos or downloading large files, unless necessary for work. If you’re engaging in such activities, be mindful of others who need the internet for their tasks.
• Avoid using unsecured websites or networks: Shared Wi-Fi can be vulnerable to security breaches. Always use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect your sensitive information and respect the privacy of others.

Conclusion: Respect and Consideration in Coworking Spaces

Whether you’re working in a physical coworking space or engaging in a virtual coworking session, coworking space etiquette plays a vital role in creating a productive and enjoyable environment. By being respectful of noise levels, maintaining a clean workspace, adhering to shared space guidelines, and building relationships with others, you can ensure a positive experience for both yourself and your fellow coworkers.

Ultimately, coworking spaces thrive on a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll contribute to a vibrant, productive, and harmonious coworking environment – one that supports both individual and collective success.