Flexible Workspace Etiquette | Do's and Don'ts for Success
There’s a lot to love about working in a flexible workspace like Grafter. Companies of all sizes and industries often opt for a flexible work environment simply because of the many opportunities to mix, mingle, and network with fellow members. You never know who you might meet over a cup of coffee in the kitchen, or what those casual meetings can lead to in the long run!
However, sharing a communal space comes with its own set of etiquette rules. Follow these essential do’s and don’ts and succeed in your shared space!
Do: Strike Up Networking Conversations
One of the biggest advantages of a flexible workspace are your fellow members. You’ll share kitchens and communal areas with professionals from various industries, companies, and job titles. Take advantage of break times and strike up a casual conversation with a new face. A simple “hello” can lead to valuable connections with potential clients, collaborators, or even future friends.
Don't: Interrupt Focused Work
While networking is encouraged, it’s important to respect your fellow members’ need for focused worktime. If someone is wearing headphones, deeply engrossed in their work, or in a designated quiet zone, it's best to wait until they take a break before asking about their weekend sea swim. Interrupting someone's work can be disruptive and counterproductive.
Do: Enjoy the Available Treats
Flexible workspaces often provide a complimentary selection of treats, coffees, and teas in the kitchen (at Grafter, we go a step beyond – you’ll enjoy a regular breakfast spread plus complimentary wine and beer!). Feel free to indulge – they are there for everyone to enjoy! Taking a break to grab a snack or a hot drink can be a great way to recharge and boost productivity.
Don't: Eat Someone Else's Food
We’ve all forgotten our lunchbox at home and on those days, the leftover takeaway in the communal fridge looks extra tempting. However, eating someone else’s food from the fridge is a big no-no. Even if the sandwich in question has been there for a while, respect others’ belongings.
If you’re unsure whether a treat is communal, err on the side of caution and ask around, or avoid it all together.
Do: Stick to Your Meeting Times
Meeting rooms and meeting pods are valuable resources in a flexible workspace. If you’ve ever had a meeting in Grafter, you know what we’re talking about – these spaces are intuitively designed to make your get-togethers as productive, efficient, and comfortable as possible.
That said, you can do your part to ensure that everyone has fair access and can make the most of their meetings. Always stick to your scheduled meeting times: arrive on time, conduct your meeting efficiently, and vacate the room promptly when your time is up. Being courteous always comes back around!
Don't: Leave Meeting Rooms Messy
“Leave only your footprints” is a good rule of thumb for natural spaces, and the same should go for communal areas like meeting rooms. When using a meeting space, make sure to leave it as clean and tidy as you found it. Dispose of any rubbish, wipe away pastry crumbs and tea spills, and return furniture to its original arrangement.
A concierge-focused flexible workspace like Grafter will make sure each meeting room is spotless for its next occupier, but leaving a clean meeting room is not only respectful to the next user but also reflects well on your own professionalism.
Do: Use Headphones for Calls and Music
You might find that the office proper is not the best place for certain calls or types of work. That’s why many flexible workspaces offer breakout areas, lounges, or co-working desks, giving you a varied environment from which to have your best day.
However, noise levels can vary in busy workspaces. To minimise disruptions, use headphones for phone calls, virtual meetings, and listening to music. You’ll help maintain a quieter environment, allowing fellow members to focus on their own work without unnecessary distractions.
Don't: Engage in Loud Conversations
As flexible workspace operators, nothing makes us happier than to see our members connect and enjoy our workspace. However, loud conversations have a time and place, and a shared workspace might not be it. If you need to have an extended discussion, consider booking out a meeting room or taking a walk around the block. Keeping your decibels at a reasonable volume ensures others can work without disruption.
Do: Participate in Community Events
Many flexible workspaces offer a full line-up of events, workshops, networking sessions, and more. Attending these activities is a great way to meet fellow members – as well as pick up a few new professional skills! Engaging with your flexible workspace community will make your workday all the more enriching, enjoyable, and successful.
Don't: Ignore Workspace Policies
Every flexible workspace has its own set of policies and guidelines. Familiarise yourself with Grafter's rules and adhere to them. These policies are in place to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all members. Ignoring them can lead to conflicts and a less-than-pleasant working environment.
And one extra Do…
Do: Ask for Help
Unsure about any aspect of the workspace or need assistance? Don't hesitate to ask for help! Grafter's Member Hosts are on-site to support you and ensure you have everything you need to succeed. Whether it's a question about the facilities or a request for more oat milk, reaching out can make your workday smoother and more productive.
Following these simple do’s and don’ts makes all the difference in your – and your fellow members’ – work day. Mixing and mingling while respecting your shared space as you make use of communal resources and engage with the community will help you make the most of your time at Grafter, or any flexible office space.
As in all aspects of business, we are better together, especially in creating an environment where everyone can thrive!
Need an office upgrade? Take a tour of Grafter and learn all about how we can elevate your working environment! Talk to our Sales Team today.