Working from a Coffee Shop

Ah, working remotely from a coffee shop or hotel restaurant or lobby area—it's a scenario we've all probably found ourselves in at one point or another. Maybe you're travelling, your home office isn't an option, or you just crave a change of scenery. But how do you make the most of this different environment?

Choosing Your Tasks Wisely

One of the joys of working from a coffee shop is the atmosphere it provides. Unlike the silence (OK, assuming the kids are out) of a home office or the structured environment of a corporate workspace, coffee shops offer that special blend of background noise/music, random human interaction (or just observation, if you’re a people watcher!), visual stimulation, and those coffee aromas all around. So, it's essential to choose tasks that align with this kind of setting.

Creative work: If you're looking for a surge of creativity, coffee shops can be surprisingly good at getting the juices flowing (some kind of pun there…). The buzz of different conversations and the whir of the espresso machine can really help spark some new ideas and help you with unconventional thinking.

Writing: Whether it's blog posts (or Substack ones!), articles, or creative writing, coffee shops can be the ideal setting to put your thoughts into words. The ambiance can provide the perfect backdrop for productive writing sessions.

Emails and Communication: Handling emails and correspondence is a task well-suited for coffee shops. It's not too distracting, and you can maintain a sense of professionalism while enjoying a change of scenery.

An Extra Conference Room

Another great use for coffee shops is to treat it like an ‘external’ conference room for your company. Go there with colleagues if you want to have a bit of an ‘away’ session, stepping away from the office to sit down and brainstorm something or take a step back from the day-to-day activities. Just set the rules on who is paying for the coffee and how it will be expensed with your company.

Handling Calls and Virtual Meetings

If you're on a call, keep it quiet and discreet. Coffee shops aren’t soundproof offices, so be mindful of your volume and the privacy of your conversation. Being on a loud meeting can be really disruptive to others (breaks that ambience) and potentially risky for your company's security if you’re discussing confidential matters. Coffee shops are best suited for internal calls where you aren’t speaking that much—make sure you have a good pair of headphones handy for when you need to join a call.

Confidentiality Concerns

When it comes to tasks or meetings that require serious confidentiality, it's best to save them for a secure office or home environment. These tasks include key meetings with clients or discussions involving proprietary or sensitive commercial information. Keep the coffee shop for more open and creative tasks that is less likely to compromise your business.

Timing

Timing is everything. If your schedule allows, aim to visit during off-peak hours, like early mornings, late afternoons, or evenings. This can help you avoid overcrowding and ensure you don't overstay your welcome. It also helps you secure a prime spot without feeling like you're hogging the place.

Choosing Your Workspace

It's tempting to snap up the biggest table in the best spot and spread your work gear all over it, especially if it’s that one place with an easy to reach socket. Don’t be that guy or gal—people are going there to chill and relax as well. So, rule number one: don't take up a table bigger than you need. Opt for a smaller one if you're flying solo, especially during busy times. Plus, consider keeping some of your stuff in your bag and only taking out what you need as you go along. Your favorite coffee spot will appreciate the gesture.

WiFi Woes

Most good coffee shops usually offer WiFi, but it can be incredibly inconsistent. Some are free, while others need to be paid for via complicated signup routines. Always have a backup plan, such as mobile data or a portable hotspot, in case the cafe's connection is shaky. This way, you won't find yourself stuck in the middle of an important video call with a frozen screen.

Gear Security

It's essential to keep your belongings safe. I had an expensive pair of sunglasses stolen in a coffee shop, so it can definitely happen to anyone. That fancy new laptop is a target; yes, it definitely is. It's very easy to get distracted, so keep an eye on your laptop and bag. Some cafes offer lockers or designated spaces for bags so take advantage of these if available.

If you need to step away, ask someone to watch your things for a moment, and return the favour when they need a break. Make sure to lock your laptop before you go regardless and make sure your laptop locks automatically after a few minutes in case you forget.

Etiquette

Let's talk about ordering. It's perfectly fine to enjoy a cup of coffee while you work, but if you plan to spend the whole day there, consider ordering more than just a single coffee. You don't want to be that person who lingers for hours having nursed a tiny espresso. Try out their lunch options or a snack to strike the right balance. Also, avoid bringing your own drinks—it's a courtesy to support the coffee shop that provides your workspace.

Cleanliness

Coffee shops usually have clearly marked bins for your rubbish/recyclables. Make an effort to follow the rules, and when in doubt, ask the staff for guidance. Leaving your workspace as clean as you found it, or even tidier, is a simple yet thoughtful way to contribute positively to the coffee shop's ambiance.