How to Use Coworking Spaces

Alex O’Byrne said that “Coworking is about achieving economies of scale without being a big company. Be prepared to share your skills, contacts and experience with other co-workers and you’ll find they do the same for you. The result could be a new contact that becomes a client, or discovering a new tool that helps make your company more efficient. In short, it’s about being open and part of the community by treating each other as comrades and not competitors”.

When using a coworking space ensure that you follow the do’s and don’ts of a shared workspace.

Do’s

• Introduce yourself to other members in friendly and open manner – never burn bridges as you never know where they may lead
• Be giving with your contact list – If you share, others will.
• Look for a space that is open and clean – It helps creativity not worry about the little details
• Listen to music, which stimulates you, but mind the volume. – A shared space should play neutral music that everyone enjoys but not too loud
• Join in and contribute to events – Become part of the community. One person on average has over a 100 contacts so being social helps
• Offer your knowledge and experience to others – Everyone in the office has certain skills, so work together and it will benefit everyone in the long run
• Share your idea with others. – You never know who other members know and it may land you a resource or client.
• Join a space with a diverse community – Allow it to build your resources, network, and knowledge

Don’ts

• Sit in the corner with your headphones in – Unless you are really concentrated or “plugged in”, try to be as social as possible without disturbing other members.
• Make a mess – A shared space is a just that – shared. A clean and clear office is a clear mind.
• Distract other members – Getting to know others is great, but be mindful, sometimes people are under deadlines or need to concentrate for a while
• Swear – A coworking office is about being professional but having some fun with others sometimes. Swearing is neither

Every coworking and shared office space is unique and finding the one with the right mix of skills, and the right vibe for the community that you wish to become a part of is essential. A space should be more that just a space. It should be a place where a community, friendships and possible business deals take place. Events whether social or business related are a must in order for a space to offer its members the full experience. At Fruitworks, we say “Work for yourself, not by yourself”. Come visit us today for a tour and find out how we can help you.