Let’s be honest: the traditional office is a bit… 2019. These days, our "office" could be a sun-drenched café in Shoreditch, a sleek hotel lobby in Manchester, or a dedicated coworking hub in the heart of the city. We’ve traded the grey cubicles for artisanal lattes and designer chairs. It’s a beautiful thing, really.

But here’s the rub. When you’re working from a new venue every other day, you aren’t just a worker, you’re a guest. And being a great guest is what separates the seasoned remote pros from the people who get the "side-eye" from the barista.

Whether you’re a solo freelancer or part of a growing team, navigating shared spaces requires a bit of finesse. It’s about more than just finding a plug socket; it’s about contributing to a vibe that keeps everyone productive.

So, if you want to be the person everyone is happy to see walk through the door, here is your definitive guide to coworking etiquette.

1. The Golden Rule of Noise

If there is one thing that can make or break a coworking environment, it’s the soundscape. We’ve all been there: you’re deep in the zone, smashing out a report, and suddenly the person next to you starts a high-volume Zoom call without headphones.

Invest in decent gear. Noise-canceling headphones aren’t just a luxury; they are a professional necessity. They signal to the room that you’re focused, and they ensure that your "buzzy" playlist doesn't become everyone else's background music.

The Voice Check. Before you speak, do a quick "volume check." In a bustling café-style venue, a bit of chatter is expected. In a quiet, dedicated library-style space? Not so much. A good rule of thumb is to match the energy of the room. If it’s pin-drop quiet, take your call in a designated phone booth or step outside.

2. The Art of the Video Call

Speaking of calls, this is where most coworking friction happens. Taking a meeting in a shared space is perfectly fine, provided you do it right.

First, check the venue details on your Reef booking. Some spots are "call-friendly," while others are strictly "quiet zones." Knowing which is which saves you the embarrassment of being asked to hush up mid-pitch.

When you are on a call:

• Use a blurred background. It keeps the focus on you and respects the privacy of other guests who might be walking behind you.
• Keep it brief. If a call is going to last longer than 20 minutes, consider if you should have booked a private meeting room.
• Avoid the "Speakerphone Sin." Just… don’t. Ever. Your headphones have a mic for a reason.

3. Respect the Real Estate

In the world of remote work, table space is prime real estate. Being the "Perfect Guest" means being mindful of how much of that space you’re hogging.

If you’re a party of one, don’t spread your laptop, second monitor, notebook, and lunch across a four-person table. It’s about being considerate of others who might be looking for a spot to plug in.

And please, let’s talk about the "Coat on the Chair" move. Using an extra chair just for your bag or coat when the venue is busy is a quick way to lose friends. Keep your belongings tucked under your desk or use the designated cloakrooms if the venue provides them.

4. Treat Venue Staff Like Your Colleagues

This is perhaps the most important tip of all. The staff at your coworking space or partner café are the ones who make your workday possible. They handle the WiFi, keep the coffee flowing, and ensure the space is tidy.

Say hello. A little bit of friendliness goes a long way. When you check in, use the person’s name if they have a badge. If you’re at a hotel venue, treat the reception team with the same respect you’d give your own company’s HR manager.

The "Leave No Trace" Policy. You wouldn’t leave a pile of crumbs and empty sugar packets on your desk at home (well, maybe you would, but don't do it here!). Before you pack up, do a quick sweep. Clear your mugs, wipe away any spills, and push your chair in. It takes ten seconds but makes a massive difference to the people working there after you.

5. Be Mindful of Amenities

One of the best perks of using Reef is the access to amazing amenities. We’re talking 200 Mbps WiFi, free-flowing coffee, and sometimes even gym access or hotel discounts.

However, "complimentary" doesn't mean "infinite."

• The Coffee Rule: If it's self-serve, help yourself, but don't fill a three-litre thermos to take home.
• The Power Rule: If you see someone struggling to find a plug, and you’re at 100% battery, offer to swap for a bit. It’s good karma.
• The WiFi Rule: Coworking WiFi is usually top-tier, but if you’re planning on downloading 50GB of raw video footage, maybe wait until you’re on a private connection to avoid slowing it down for everyone else.

6. Arrive Prepared

A "Perfect Guest" is a self-sufficient guest. While many venues are incredibly helpful, they aren't your personal office supply store.

Always carry:

• Your own chargers (and maybe a small power strip if you have multiple devices).
• A physical notebook (great for when you want to look busy but your eyes need a screen break).
• Your Reef app ready to show your booking.

Checking your booking details on the main-header before you arrive ensures you know exactly where to go and what to expect. This prevents that awkward "I'm not sure if I'm allowed to sit here" shuffle.

7. The Social Vibe: To Talk or Not to Talk?

The beauty of shared spaces is the community. You might be sitting next to your next business partner, a future client, or just someone who knows a great spot for lunch nearby.

However, reading the room is key. If someone has big over-ear headphones on and is typing furiously, they probably don't want to chat about the weather. If someone is lingering by the coffee machine or looking around, a quick "Hey, what are you working on?" can be the start of a great connection.

Why Etiquette Matters for the Future of Work

You might think, "It’s just a desk, why does it matter?"

It matters because the relationship between venues and remote workers is built on mutual respect. When we are good guests, venues continue to open their doors to us, offer better amenities, and keep the prices accessible.

At Reef, we’re on a mission to bridge the gap between people who need a place to work and venues that have beautiful spaces to share. By following these simple etiquette tips, you’re helping us build a world where "work from anywhere" isn't just a dream, but a sustainable, professional reality.

Ready to Find Your Next "Office"?

The perfect venue is waiting for you. Whether you need a chilled-out sofa for a brainstorming session or a high-energy café to power through your to-do list, we’ve got you covered.

Take these tips, grab your laptop, and go be the best guest the venue has seen all week. You might find that when you respect the space, the space works better for you.

• Looking for a specific vibe? Head over to our search page to filter by location and amenities.
• Need to book for a group? Check out our teams page to see how we help businesses stay connected.
• Want to browse more tips? Our blog archive is packed with advice for the modern remote worker.

Happy working! 📍