Let's talk about the elephant in the coworking space. You know the one. The person who takes loud personal calls at their desk. The one who microwaves fish in the shared kitchen. The one who "borrows" your charger and never returns it. We've all seen them. We've all been annoyed by them. And if we're being honest, we've all accidentally been them at least once. Coworking spaces are amazing, but they only work if everyone plays nice. Here's my simple, funny, slightly passive-aggressive guide to being a good coworking citizen. You're welcome, future desk-mates.
Rule #1: Headphones Are Your Best Friend
Listening to music? Podcasts? YouTube videos of cats playing piano? Use headphones. Not earbuds at 100% volume that everyone can hear. Actual headphones. And if you're on a call, use a quiet room or step outside. Nobody wants to hear your client negotiation while they're trying to focus. Pro tip: noise-canceling headphones are a game-changer. They help you focus and signal to others that you're in deep work mode. It's a win-win.
Rule #2: Keep Calls Short and Quiet
Need to take a call? Use a phone booth or meeting room if the space has them. If not, step outside or find a quiet corner. Keep it under 10 minutes if possible. And please, for the love of all things holy, don't have a personal drama call at your desk. We can hear everything. Yes, even the part about your ex. Save it for a walk. Your coworkers will thank you. And so will your ex, probably.
Rule #3: Clean Up After Yourself (Yes, Really)
Shared kitchen = shared responsibility. If you make a mess, clean it up. Wipe the counter. Wash your dishes. Throw away your trash. Don't leave your half-eaten sandwich in the fridge for three days. That's how wars start. Also, label your food. "DO NOT EAT - MELISA" is a perfectly reasonable label. Trust me. I've learned this the hard way.
Rule #4: Respect Shared Resources
That printer, that whiteboard, that fancy espresso machine—they're for everyone. Don't hog them. Don't leave your stuff on them. And if you use the last of the coffee beans, maybe make a new pot? Or at least leave a note? Basic courtesy goes a long way. Also, don't "borrow" office supplies without asking. That stapler isn't yours. Put it back. We see you.
Rule #5: Be Mindful of Smells
Perfume, cologne, strong food, gym clothes—smells travel in shared spaces. Go easy on the scent. And please, don't heat up fish, broccoli, or anything with a strong odor in the shared microwave. Just don't. Eat it at home. Or outside. Anywhere but there. Your coworkers' noses will thank you. And so will your reputation.
Rule #6: Say Hi (But Don't Force It)
Coworking spaces are social, but not everyone wants to chat. A simple "hi" or smile is enough. If someone has headphones on or is focused, let them be. If they seem open to conversation, great! But don't take it personally if someone prefers to keep to themselves. We're all here to work, after all. Balance is key.
Final Thought: We're All Figuring It Out
Coworking etiquette isn't about being perfect. It's about being considerate. We're all humans sharing a space, trying to get stuff done. Mistakes happen. We've all been "that person" at least once. The key is to learn, adjust, and keep trying. And if you want more tips on making the most of any workspace, check out our guide to picking the perfect spot. Or if you're deciding between home and coworking, read our ultimate showdown. Be kind. Clean up. Wear headphones. And maybe skip the fish for lunch. You've got this.