Here are the community and coworking space guidelines and rules that we adhere to at CoWork Williamsport. However, these would be good to follow for any coworking space.
- Respect the Space
Treat the coworking space as if it were your own office. Don’t damage or misuse the furniture, equipment or amenities. Follow the rules and guidelines of the space and respect the staff and security.
- Clean Up After Yourself
One of the most important etiquette rules for coworking spaces is to clean up after yourself. Don’t leave your trash, dishes or personal belongings lying around. Dispose of your waste properly and return any items you borrowed to their original place. This includes your workspace and common areas such as the kitchen and coffee bar.
- Be Mindful of Noise
Coworking spaces are not libraries, but they are not nightclubs either. Be mindful of the noise level you create and avoid disturbing others with loud music, phone calls or conversations. Use headphones, mute your devices and move to a designated area if you need to make a call or have a meeting.
- Respect Privacy and Boundaries
Don’t intrude on other people’s privacy or boundaries. Don’t peek at their screens, eavesdrop on their conversations or interrupt their work. Ask for permission before taking photos, videos or notes of others or their work.
- Share Resources and Amenities
Coworking spaces often provide shared resources and amenities such as printers, scanners, coffee machines or meeting rooms. Be considerate and share them with others. Don’t hog them for yourself or use them excessively. Make reservations if needed and cancel them if you change your plans.
- Communicate Clearly and Politely
Communication is key in any coworking space. Communicate clearly and politely with others, whether it is to ask for help, offer feedback or express your needs. Use appropriate language and tone and avoid being rude, aggressive or sarcastic.
- Network and Collaborate
One of the benefits of coworking spaces is the opportunity to network and collaborate with other professionals from different fields and backgrounds. Take advantage of this and be open to meeting new people, exchanging ideas and learning from others. However, don’t be pushy, spammy or salesy when networking or collaborating.
- Be Flexible and Adaptable
Coworking spaces are dynamic and diverse environments that can change from day to day or even hour to hour. Be flexible and adaptable to these changes and don’t expect everything to be perfect or consistent. Adjust your expectations and preferences accordingly and be ready to compromise if needed.
- Give Back to the Community
Coworking spaces are more than just physical spaces. They are also communities of like-minded people who share values, goals and interests. Give back to the community by contributing your skills, knowledge or time to help others, support causes or organize events.
- Enjoy the Space and Community
Last but not least, have fun and enjoy your coworking experience. Coworking spaces are not only places to work, but also places to socialize, relax and have fun. Participate in social activities, join clubs or groups, celebrate milestones or achievements and make friends.