There are over 40,000 coworking spaces worldwide - and new ones are constantly being added! The concept of coworking has long since become an integral part of the modern working world.
Start-ups, freelancers and employees work side by side in coworking spaces - a colorful and very heterogeneous mix of people, industries and expertise! To ensure that this coexistence is as successful as possible, there are rules and etiquette in every coworking space.
In this coworking etiquette guide, you will find out how to behave in a coworking space so that working together not only works, but also inspires.
1. volume and quiet areas
A coworking space often consists of flexible workspaces, quiet zones and separate offices - each area has specific advantages.
Especially in the flexible workspaces, respectful interaction is required to promote a productive atmosphere. A respectful approach to the background noise is therefore essential. Here are some practical tips for you to help minimize noise:
- Use headphones: wear closed-back headphones that muffle ambient noise to improve your concentration while not disturbing coworkers when watching videos, for example.
- White noise apps: If noise-canceling headphones or music on your ears isn't right for you, use apps that create soothing background sounds like the sound of the ocean or rain. Play the sounds on your headphones and they will help you to drown out distracting noises and increase concentration.
- Silent or vibrate mode: Switch your cell phone to silent or vibrate mode to avoid distracting other people with constant ringing.
- Sensitive conversation volume: Make sure that your conversations in shared work areas are not too loud. A moderate tone makes a big difference - that's living together!
- Respect quiet areas: Many coworking spaces are designed to offer both dynamic and quiet work areas to meet the different needs of their users. Quiet areas for deep work are clearly marked. Respect these areas and use them accordingly - this will increase your individual productivity and general well-being.
- Be considerate when on the phone: If you need to make a phone call, use the designated work areas or phone boxes to avoid disturbing other people.
From fixed or flexible workspaces, to fully equipped offices, to conference and event spaces in perfect locations: the coworking solutionsfrom Office Club offer you exactly the workspace you need.
Find an Office Club near you and book a viewing tour today!
2. use of the telephone boxes
Phone boxes are a central component of coworking spaces - including Office Club's business centers throughout Germany. Our phone boxes offer privacy and quiet for confidential conversations. To ensure that all members can benefit equally, we have established the following usage rules:
For telephone calls only
The phone boxes are specifically designed to provide a quiet place for phone calls. They are not intended as individual offices or for permanent work.
Time limit
Each member should limit the use of the phone boxes to a maximum of two hours. This rule ensures that everyone has equal access to the boxes, especially during peak times when demand is high.
Cleanliness
It is important that every member leaves the phone box clean and tidy. Coffee cups or personal items should not be left behind. This promotes a culture of consideration and respect in the coworking space.
These rules have been tried and tested and apply in all Office Club coworking spaces to ensure a pleasant and efficient working environment for our members.
3. use of space and personal area
In coworking spaces, the efficient and considerate use of personal space is of great importance. A conscious use of the available space not only promotes your own productivity, but also respects the working needs of others. Here are some guidelines on how to make the best use of your workspace and avoid taking over space at the same time:
- Define personal workspace: Make sure your workspace is clearly delineated and organized. Only use the space that is assigned to you and make sure that your things do not encroach on other people's areas.
- Share common resources: Coworking spaces thrive on the idea of community. This also includes sharing resources such as printers, scanners and office materials. Handle these with care and make sure that others have access to them when they need them.
- Maintain order and cleanliness: Keep your workplace clean and tidy. A tidy environment not only has a positive effect on your own work ethic, but also contributes to a pleasant overall image of the coworking space.
Keep these simple points in mind to ensure uncomplicated cooperation.
4. coffee kitchen etiquette
The coffee kitchen is a central meeting point in many coworking spaces that invites people to chat and relax. To keep this area pleasant for everyone, follow this etiquette:
- Maintain cleanliness: Wash dishes immediately or put them in the dishwasher. Also take care not to leave work surfaces or the inside of the microwave dirty.
- Label food and drinks: To avoid confusion, label the food and drinks you have brought with you in the fridge. Use names and dates to clarify who owns what and how long it has been stored.
- Deal fairly with communal offers: Many coworking spaces offer water, tea or fruit as a free service. It is important to be fair here and limit yourself to reasonable quantities so that other members can also benefit.
Need inspiration for practical and healthy snacks at work? In our article Brainfood for the office we have put together some valuable tips and tricks for you.
With this in mind: stay clean ;)
5. respectful communication and interaction
Good cooperation in coworking spaces depends largely on respectful communication. This is not just about politeness, but also about the ability to interact openly and constructively.
- Polite interaction: Small gestures of politeness promote a positive working atmosphere: greet your coworking colleagues, say thank you and ask permission before using other people's personal items or work materials - it's logical somehow.
- Dealing with conflicts and misunderstandings: In a shared office, conflicts and misunderstandings cannot be ruled out. It is important that you address them openly and respectfully if you feel disturbed, for example. Take time for a clarifying conversation in a calm environment and try to find a solution together that is acceptable to all parties.
We have compiled more tips on respectful communication in the workplace for you in this article: Non-violent communication in the workplace - principles and tips for practice.
6 Networking and joint events in the coworking space
Networking is a central component of the coworking culture and contributes significantly to professional and personal development. Coworking spaces often organize get-together events, workshops and informal get-togethers that provide great opportunities to network and share experiences.
- Participate in events: Take advantage of the regular events held in your coworking space to expand your network. These events are often designed to encourage interaction between members while providing added value through workshops or guest speakers.
- Build relationships: Good networks are based on mutual give and take. Try to understand the needs of others and think about how you or your network could help. Genuine relationships often develop from a shared desire to support each other.
- Use digital tools: Many coworking spaces offer platforms or apps that also support networking digitally. Use these tools to connect with other members, keep track of upcoming events and participate in discussions.
The combination of personal encounters and digital networking enables a dynamic and far-reaching community that has the potential to have an impact far beyond the physical boundaries of the coworking space.
7 Conclusion: Successful together in a coworking space
Coworking spaces are more than just places to work; they are communities that foster creativity and collaboration. Following simple rules of etiquette - from volume control to cleanliness in common areas - goes a long way towards creating a productive and enjoyable atmosphere. By each person practicing the basics of respectful interaction, the coworking space can become an inspiring place for all.
Looking for the right coworking space for you? Office Club's coworking solutions might be just what you're looking for: whether it's a flexible workspace or a permanent office space - discover the workspace that suits you and your needs.
