If you are joining a coworking space for the first time, first understand that it is completely different from a traditional office. In coworking spaces, people from different companies, freelancers, and startups work in one place. That’s why there are some basic rules and behaviour expectations which are important to follow. If you're new to coworking etiquette in India, this guide will help.
On the first day, you should observe how people are working, how they interact, and what norms they follow. Simple things like noise control, use of shared spaces, and respectful communication matter a lot. If you follow basic etiquette, you will easily adjust to a coworking space and make a strong impression. In a coworking space, not only does work happen, but networking does as well; that’s why your behaviour becomes your identity.
What You Can Expect on Your First Day in a Coworking Space?
When you go to a coworking space, on the first day, you will first see a shared environment where different people are doing their work. Here, freelancers, startups and small teams work in the same place, which is why the environment here is a little different from a traditional office.
At the entry, you will find a reception where you have to check in, and basic information is given by the receptionist. According to your plan, you will be allotted a desk. It takes a little time on the first day to understand the setup, such as connecting to Wi-Fi, getting login details, and understanding the layout of the workspace. Coworking staff are available to help you.
You will notice that people are focusing on their work, and there is no unnecessary noise. There are separate rooms for meetings and calls, so you also have to be careful not to disturb others. There is also a pantry area and common spaces where you can take breaks.
How Coworking Spaces Work in India?
The concept of coworking spaces in India is very simple. Coworking spaces are shared office spaces where people from different companies work in the same space. You don't need to set up your own office here, because it is a ready-to-use office. To use a coworking space in India, you have to take a membership plan on a daily, monthly or yearly. In India, coworking spaces offer multiple seating types such as hot desk, dedicated desk, and private cabins.
You can book as per your needs. Here, you also get meeting rooms for meetings and team discussions. They offer many amenities like a parking area, a lounge area, a pantry area, an outdoor seating area, a fully-furnished workspace, an AC, a lift, washrooms, a phone booth and many more.
Basic Work Etiquette in a Shared Office Space
If you follow these basic etiquette rules, you will easily adjust to the coworking space and be able to work smoothly with others.
- Respect the work of other people - The most important thing in a shared office is to respect the work of others. Everyone is busy with their own work, so avoid unnecessary chatter or disturbance.
- Noise Control - Noise control is very important. Loud calls or talking in high volumes can disturb others, so it is best to use a designated area or meeting room for calls.
- Keep workspace clean and organized - Always keep your workspace clean and organized. Do not spread unnecessary things on the desk and clean the desk properly after finishing the work.
- Keep common areas clean - Common areas like the pantry, meeting rooms, or breakout zones are for everyone. It is a basic responsibility to keep them clean after use.
- Keeping time - Keeping time is also part of etiquette. If you've booked a meeting room, respect its timing and don't take up extra time.
- Respect the privacy of other persons - Always respect the privacy of others. It is wrong to see into someone's laptop screen or try to listen to their calls.
- Maintain Professional Behaviour - Whether you're a freelancer, a startup owner, or anyone, you should speak politely and respectfully to everyone.
How to Use Shared Facilities Properly?
Shared facilities in a coworking space are those things everyone uses together, such as meeting rooms, a pantry area, printers, Wi-Fi, a parking area, and common areas. It is important to use them properly so everyone can work without problems.
- Meeting Rooms - Always booked meeting rooms in advance. Using a room without booking creates problems for others. When your time is up, you should immediately vacate the room for the next occupant.
- Pantry - It is important to maintain cleanliness when using the pantry. Anything you use, such as cups or plates, should be put back or cleaned after use. Leaving food waste or mess behind is uncomfortable for others.
- Printer & Office Equipment - Always use printer and office equipment responsibly. Print only the necessary documents; avoid unnecessary printing. If any issue arises, it is better to inform the staff rather than fixing it yourself.
- Wi-Fi - Always remember wi-fi is shared, so heavy downloads or unnecessary usage should be avoided so that everyone can get proper speed.
- Common Areas - Common areas, such as lounges or breakout zones, are for relaxing, but should also be considered for others. It is not right to talk loudly or create a disturbance.
How to Communicate with Other People in the Workspace?
Communication in a coworking space should be balanced, neither too over-friendly nor too closed. People from different backgrounds work here, so it is important to maintain a polite and respectful tone first. Below, we mentioned some points. If you follow them, you can easily communicate with other people in the Workspace -
- It is important to understand timing. If someone is busy on their laptop or wearing headphones, avoid disturbing them. At such times, it is better to wait or approach later. If it's an urgent matter, you can politely ask if they're free.
- Communication should also be considered during calls and meetings. Loud conversations or calls on speaker can disturb others, so it is best to use a designated area or meeting room for calls.
- Networking is an important part of a coworking space, but it should be kept natural. When you have the opportunity, such as in the pantry or common area, you can casually talk. Forcing a conversation or repeatedly interrupting someone is not a good thing.
- If you need help or want something, you can ask clearly and politely. Also, if someone needs your help, you can support them if possible.
How to Make a Good First Day Impression?
- Your behaviour matters - When you enter, be polite and calm. Speak properly to the reception or staff and follow the rules they provide.
- Keep dressing simple - Your dressing style should also be simple and neat. There's no need to overdress, but don't be so casual that it looks unprofessional. Being clean and presentable is enough.
- Observe things there - Instead of talking or networking too much on the first day, it's better to observe a little. Observe how people are working, how they're talking, and what rules are being followed. This will help you understand the environment.
- Keep your workspace clean - Don't leave unnecessary things on your desk, and leave the place properly clean after finishing work. These small things make a good impression on others.
- Talk politely - If you need to talk to someone, introduce yourself politely, but don't disturb anyone. Don't force anyone into conversation.
- Be professional - Coming on time, following rules and respecting others are the most basic things that make you good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q - What should I carry on my first day at a coworking space?
Ans - On your first day, you should bring basic things like a water bottle, lunch, a laptop, a charger, and headphones (if you use them). Some coworking spaces provide stationery, but you should still bring your own pen and notebook. You should also carry ID proof, which may be required for entry or verification. If you attend meetings daily, bring the related files and documents.
Q - How do I adjust quickly in a coworking space from the first day?
Ans - The best way to adjust from the first day is to observe things and adapt quickly. As you enter the space, take some time to observe how people are working and what rules are being followed. Clarify basic things with the staff, such as Wi-Fi, seating, and access to facilities. Behave politely with others and do not disturb them unnecessarily. If you need to talk to someone, choose the right time. Gradually, you will understand the environment and adjust naturally.
Q - Do I need to follow a dress code in a coworking space?
Ans - Coworking spaces don't have a strict dress code like corporate offices, but that doesn't mean you can wear anything. Your dressing should be simple, clean, and presentable. Here, you work with different people, so maintaining basic professionalism is very important.
Q - Can I bring my friends or guests to a coworking space?
Ans - Generally, you can bring guests into coworking spaces, but there are rules. Each space has its own policies, so it is important to check first. In some coworking spaces, you have to register for guest entry or allow it for a limited time. It is not a good idea to bring someone in without informing them. If you need to do meeting with someone, you should book a meeting room.
Q - Is it okay to eat food at my desk in a coworking space?
Ans - This depends on the rules of the coworking space, but generally, heavy or strong-smelling food should be avoided at the desk. Light snacks or drinks are usually allowed, but for proper meals, use the pantry or the designated eating area.
Q - What should I do if someone disturbs me while working?
Ans - If someone disturbs you, the first thing to do is handle the situation calmly. Instead of giving a rude reaction, it is better to politely tell them you're busy or working. If the disturbance is caused by noise, you can use headphones or choose a slightly quieter area. If you face these types of problems again and again, you can inform the staff.