Co-Working Spaces: How to Thrive and be Productive in the 'New Office' Space
I’ve recently started working occasionally from a dedicated co-working space actually not far from where I live. It’s been great fun, giving me the flexibility to work remotely while still enjoying a professional environment—it’s almost like a half-way house between a private office and a rigid corporate building. But, as with all things hybrid, there are a few hurdles to jump over, especially when it comes to those virtual meetings. Let’s dive into some common issues and ideas to help us navigate this new part of the hybrid world.
Why a Co-Working Space?
First, let’s talk about why you might choose a co-working space in the first place. If you’re someone who thrives on the energy of others but still loves the flexibility of remote work, a co-working space can offer the best of both worlds. It gives you access to a professional environment without the rigidity of a traditional office. Plus, it’s a great way to separate work life from home life, especially if your home isn’t always the quiet sanctuary you’d like it to be!
However, the key to thriving in a co-working space is understanding that it’s a shared environment. This brings us to our first challenge.
Problem 1: Noise and Distractions
Co-working spaces can be bustling hubs of activity. While this can be energising, it can also be incredibly distracting, especially during long remote calls. Picture this: you’re deep into an important call, and someone decides it’s the perfect time to start a loud conversation right next to you. Annoying, right?
To deal with this, you really must take along a pair of good quality noise-cancelling headphones and unidirectional microphones. Trust me, they’re worth every penny. Not only do they help you focus and block out the noise (both for you and for the other attendees!), but they also signal to others that you’re in “do not disturb” mode. Additionally, scope out the space when you first arrive. Many co-working spaces have designated quiet areas or phone booths that are perfect for calls. Make it a habit to book one of these spaces ahead of time if you know you’ll be on a long call.
Problem 2: Internet Woes
Nothing kills productivity faster than a spotty internet connection, especially when you’re on a video call with a senior colleague or an important client. Co-working spaces usually have solid Wi-Fi, but with multiple people connected at once, you might experience the occasional lag.
Always check the Wi-Fi speed and stability when you first arrive. If the co-working space offers multiple networks, choose the one that’s less crowded. And for those extra important calls, consider tethering your laptop to your phone’s data connection as a backup. If your co-working space has Ethernet ports, bringing a cable can also give you a more stable connection.
Problem 3: Privacy Concerns
In a shared space, privacy can be a concern. You don’t want your sensitive work conversations overheard by others, and you certainly don’t want to inadvertently share confidential information. For calls that involve sensitive information, always book a private room if your co-working space offers one. If not, maybe take that particular call at home, or just be extra careful of how you speak, e.g. maybe don’t mention out loud the name of that potential customer! Additionally, be mindful of your screen—angle your laptop so that no one can easily glance across and see what you’re working on.
Problem 4: Balancing Social Interaction and Productivity
One of the perks of a co-working space is the opportunity to meet and network with other professionals. But this can be a double-edged sword—too much socialising can eat into your productive time! Set boundaries. It’s important to be friendly and build connections, but you also need to protect your time. Ultimately, you’re there to work. Politely let people know when you’re in the zone and can’t chat. If your co-working space has community events, use those as your time to socialise rather than during work hours. You can also schedule your social breaks—take 10 minutes to chat with someone after a task is completed or during lunch. This way, you get the best of both worlds without sacrificing productivity.
Bonus Tips for Working in a Co-Working Space
Personalise Your Space: Bring a few personal items like a plant, a favourite mug, or a small photo to make your workspace feel more like yours. It can make a big difference in how comfortable and focused you feel. Of course, when the day is done, you’ll need to pop them back into your ‘office in a bag’!
Routine, Routine, Routine: Try to stick to a regular schedule, even in a co-working space. Arrive at the same time each day, take breaks at consistent intervals, and set clear start and end times for your work. This routine will help you stay disciplined and make the most of your time there.
Engage with the Community: Don’t be a stranger! Co-working spaces are full of interesting people from various industries. Networking and building relationships can lead to new opportunities and collaborations. Plus, it makes your workday a lot more enjoyable.