Open Office, Closed Mouths: The Unwritten Rules of Shared Workspace Etiquette

29 Jun 2024

Shared Workstation Etiquette at Kevin Morrison blog

So you’ve decided to ditch the sweatpants-at-home office and join the vibrant community of a shared workspace. Congratulations! You're about to embark on a thrilling journey filled with ergonomic chairs, questionable coffee, and the constant hum of productivity (or is that just the air conditioning?). But before you break out your laptop and claim your spot at the communal table, let’s talk about something crucial: shared office space etiquette. Because let’s face it, nobody wants to be the person everyone secretly hates.

Remember the days of cubicles, water cooler gossip, and passive-aggressive sticky notes? Shared workspaces promised something different – a collaborative utopia free from the shackles of corporate drudgery. And while the open floor plan and ping pong tables are great, the truth is, even utopias have rules.

Shared office space etiquette guidelines are the unspoken (well, sometimes spoken) rules that separate the coworking heroes from the villains. They're the difference between a harmonious symphony of productivity and a cacophony of keyboard clicks and frustrated sighs. Think of it as the social contract of the coworking world, ensuring everyone can focus, thrive, and maybe even enjoy a decent cup of coffee.

From noisy eaters to territorial desk hogs, the potential for conflict in a shared office space is real. But fear not, dear reader, for we’re about to dive deep into the dos and don'ts of shared workspace etiquette, arming you with the knowledge to navigate this exciting new frontier with grace and aplomb (okay, maybe not aplomb, but you get the idea).

Let’s face it; nobody wants to be known as "that guy" (or gal) in the shared office. You know, the one who blasts death metal on their headphones while simultaneously microwaving fish for lunch. Yes, we all have our quirks, but the beauty of shared office space etiquette is that it allows us to coexist peacefully, productively, and without wanting to throttle each other. Think of it as the secret sauce to a harmonious and productive coworking experience.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Shared Office Space Etiquette

Advantages	Disadvantages
Promotes a respectful and professional environment	Can feel restrictive to some, particularly those used to working alone
Reduces distractions and increases productivity	Requires a conscious effort to be mindful of others
Fosters a sense of community and collaboration	May lead to passive-aggressive behavior if not openly discussed

Five Best Practices for Coworking Zen

1. The Art of the Phone Call: Look, we get it. You’re a mover and shaker, closing deals left and right. But nobody wants to be privy to your entire sales pitch. If you must take a call, keep it brief, discreet, and consider stepping into a designated phone booth or common area. Your neighbors will thank you.

2. The Snack Attack Strategist: Yes, coworking spaces often come equipped with tempting treats. But before you devour that bag of chips like a ravenous beast, take a moment to assess the situation. Is it a shared bag? Offer some to your neighbors! Is it particularly pungent? Maybe save it for later. A little consideration goes a long way.

3. The Meeting Room Mastermind: Meeting rooms are like gold dust in a coworking space. So, be a pal and book them only when necessary, and for the allotted time. And please, for the love of all that is holy, clean up after yourselves! Nobody wants to stumble upon the remnants of your brainstorming session (especially if it involves smelly markers).

4. The Noise Ninja: We all have different noise tolerance levels. While you may thrive amidst a symphony of keyboard clicks and background chatter, others may find it distracting. Be mindful of your noise output, invest in some noise-canceling headphones, and save the impromptu dance parties for after-hours.

5. The Cleanliness Crusader: Remember that old saying, "Treat others how you want to be treated"? Well, the same applies to your workspace. Keep your area tidy, wipe down surfaces after use, and avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink. Trust us; nobody wants to play office janitor.

Real-World Examples of Coworking Etiquette Wins (and Fails)

1. The Case of the Fragrant Fish: We’ve all been there. You’re starving, the microwave beckons, and you’ve got a leftover salmon fillet with your name on it. Don’t do it! Heating up strong-smelling foods in a shared workspace is a recipe for disaster (and resentment).

2. The Saga of the Serial Meeting Room Hoarder: You know the type – the ones who book the meeting room for hours on end, even if they’re just having a casual coffee chat. Don’t be that person. Be mindful of others who may need the space and book only what you need.

3. The Ballad of the Loud Talker: Yes, some people are just naturally loud talkers. But in a shared workspace, it’s essential to be aware of your volume. Use your inside voice, especially when on the phone or in close proximity to others.

4. The Curious Incident of the Crumb-Covered Keyboard: We’re not here to judge your eating habits, but please, for the love of all that is good and pure, clean up after yourself. Crumbs, spills, and mysterious sticky substances have no place on shared surfaces (or anywhere, really).

5. The Legend of the Wandering Workstation: Shared workspaces are designed for flexibility, but it’s also important to have a designated spot. Leaving your belongings scattered across multiple desks is not only messy but also inconsiderate to others looking for a place to work.

Challenges and Solutions in the Coworking Jungle

Challenge 1: Noise Pollution: From chatty coworkers to relentless keyboard warriors, noise can be a major distraction in a shared office. Solution: Invest in noise-canceling headphones, utilize designated quiet areas, or politely address excessive noise with those involved. Remember, communication is key!

Challenge 2: Territorial Tendencies: We all have our favorite spots, but hoarding desks or resources is a big no-no. Solution: Practice the art of sharing. Release your grip on that coveted window seat and embrace the communal spirit of coworking.

Challenge 3: Kitchen Conundrums: Ah, the office kitchen – a breeding ground for passive-aggressive notes and mysterious food disappearances. Solution: Label your food, clean up after yourself, and resist the urge to judge others’ culinary choices (even if that tuna sandwich smells a little suspect).

Challenge 4: Tech Troubles in Paradise: From spotty Wi-Fi to printer paper jams, technology has a way of throwing a wrench into our best-laid plans. Solution: Be patient, seek assistance from community managers, and remember that we’ve all been there (and survived to tell the tale).

Challenge 5: The Social Butterfly vs. The Lone Wolf: Coworking spaces attract a diverse crowd, from extroverted social butterflies to introverted lone wolves. Solution: Respect personal boundaries, be mindful of those who may be deep in concentration, and don’t force interaction upon unwilling participants.

FAQs: Decoding the Coworking Code

Q: Can I eat at my desk? A: While a quick snack is usually acceptable, avoid bringing in pungent foods or turning your workspace into a makeshift buffet.

Q: What’s the deal with phone calls? A: Keep them brief, discreet, and consider stepping into a designated phone booth or common area for longer conversations.

Q: Can I blast my Spotify playlist? A: Not unless you want to be public enemy number one. Headphones are your friend, my friend.

Q: What’s the protocol for using meeting rooms? A: Book in advance, stick to the allotted time, and leave the space as you found it (clean and tidy).

Q: Can I bring my pet to work? A: Pet policies vary, so check with your coworking space before bringing your furry friend along.

Q: How do I deal with a noisy neighbor? A: Politely address the issue directly, or if you’re uncomfortable, reach out to community managers for assistance.

Q: What’s the dress code like? A: Dress codes vary, but generally aim for business casual or whatever’s appropriate for your industry.

Q: Can I invite guests to the coworking space? A: Most spaces have guest policies, so be sure to check before inviting your entire entourage.

Tips and Tricks for Coworking Mastery

- Invest in quality noise-canceling headphones. Your sanity will thank you.

- Be mindful of your scent. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes.

- Label your food. This will prevent unwanted food theft and awkward encounters.

- Clean up after yourself. It's just common courtesy, folks.

- Respect personal space. Not everyone wants to be best friends, and that's okay.

- Embrace the community. Participate in events, workshops, and get to know your fellow coworkers. You never know who you might connect with.

In the ever-evolving landscape of work, shared office spaces have emerged as vibrant hubs of collaboration, creativity, and, yes, occasional frustration. Navigating this dynamic environment requires more than just a laptop and a dream; it demands a healthy dose of shared office space etiquette. By adhering to the unspoken (and sometimes spoken) rules of coworking, we can create a harmonious, productive, and dare we say, enjoyable experience for everyone. So, go forth, dear coworkers, and may your days be filled with productive collaborations, silent printers, and perhaps even a decent cup of coffee.