5 Etiquette Tips For Renting Co-Working Office Space
Co-working spaces are growing in popularity for good reasons. With more and more people working remotely and others taking up side gigs or small business startups, rented office space makes everything easier. But because you're not working at the kitchen table in your home, it's important to follow some etiquette standards. What are some of these, and how can you ensure that you're a great workmate? Consider these tips.
1. Know When To Rent Private
Co-working spaces generally come in two varieties: open, shared workspaces, and private offices. Shared spaces are less expensive and may be great for road warriors who need to catch up on paperwork, for instance. But pay attention to whether you should actually move to private office rentals. If you need to take a lot of calls, need more time at the desk than most, or meet with clients, do your fellow renters a favor and rent a private space.
2. Be Friendly But Professional
Even though you aren't forced to work together for a single employer, the other remote workers are your new workmates. Be a friendly face. Say hello, learn their names, and ask about their work or family. You can help make things pleasant. However, don't stray into being too personal, flirting, or hogging people's valuable time.
3. Learn And Follow The Rules
Every office rental business has its own rules and expectations. Ask about these, read your contract, and peruse the information they provide. What are their closing times? How far in advance should you book an office? How many hours can you book space for? Who cleans up the coffee station? Can you bring pets or kids? Proactively following the rules prevents any problems with others.
4. Don't Be A Polluter
Noise pollution in an office can ruin many people's focus. If you like to work with background music, use headphones. Take calls outside or in a private space such as an office. Mind your volume as well. And don't forget about odor pollution. Skip the eggs, fish, kimchi, or curry. Or just enjoy them outside underneath a tree.
5. Bring Supplies Or Replace Them
Find out which office supplies are provided and restocked by the office building — and which are not. If you use items meant for everyone to share, don't hog these and replace what you do need to use. Bring some office supplies for yourself and even consider sharing with your fellow office mates. You'll be a popular tenant and may even be able to make new business connections.
Where To Start
By following a few basic rules for good etiquette, you help ensure that you have a great co-working experience and that others do too. Start by touring rented office rental facilities in your area today.