Are you getting lonely or bored working from home? Do you want a nice change of scenery but don’t like really feel like going outdoors? If so, consider working remotely in a coffee shop next time.
Today, coffee shops are popular places for remote workers and digital nomads. It’s easy to see why: they have great coffee, a warm and cozy atmosphere, and they often have a good internet connection too.
So whether you’re working remotely in Manila, Boracay, Siargao, or anywhere else in the country, there’s always a coffee shop you can go to.
But before you pack your laptop, brush up on the etiquette for working in a coffee shop:
Go to the Right Coffee Shop.
Not every coffee shop caters to remote workers. Some coffee shops are so small that they can’t afford to let someone occupy a table for a long time. Others are in rather busy areas that make working there all but impossible.
Thus, one of the rules to follow when working in a coffee shop is to do your research first. Choose one with plenty of comfortable seating and in an area with low to moderate noise.
It also helps to get a table near electrical outlets so you can readily recharge your laptop. If you get hungry very quickly, look for a coffee shop that offers not just coffee, but also a decent food selection.
Order Something While You Work.
You heard me. Some remote workers think that it’s okay to squat in a coffee shop for free Wi-Fi and water.
Remember, a coffee shop isn’t a free lounge. They rely on people ordering their products to remain in business. And if you’re not going to buy anything, you’re taking precious space away from those who will.
So, part of the proper etiquette towards working in a coffee shop is to have a cup or two of coffee while you’re there. If you plan to stay for a few hours, you may want to throw in a sandwich too.
Aside from being a basic courtesy, paying for food and drinks also helps keep your favorite joint in business, so you have a place to return to next time.
Bring Headphones.
Don’t forget that you’re not the only person staying or possibly working in the coffee shop. Thus, a must-have piece of equipment you should bring if you’re working in a coffee shop is a pair of headphones.
Besides being a basic courtesy, headphones allow you to remain focused at work while listening to your playlist. They also help provide privacy when you’re on a call with your boss or co-workers.
Don’t Expect Anyone to Watch Over Your Stuff.
Quick reminder, the coffee shop’s staff and other patrons aren’t obligated to guard your stuff when you take a bathroom break. The former will be busy running the shop, while the latter can leave anytime. Besides, do you want to entrust your laptop to strangers?
So if you must leave your items to go to the bathroom, it’s wiser to surrender your equipment to the barista until you return. Aside from being a safety precaution, it’s also proper etiquette when working in a coffee shop, as it prevents you from putting someone else in an uncomfortable situation.
Avoid Taking Calls or Streaming Inside the Coffee Shop.
One of the main reasons many remote workers work at coffee shops is because it has a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Unfortunately, some people forget this and conduct their calls, or worse, their streams within the shop.
Aside from being rude to others, doing this can also compromise your and your company’s data privacy. In the case of streaming, it also significantly slows down the internet for everyone in the coffee shop.
If you must take a call, do it outside the shop to avoid disrupting others and to preserve your privacy.
Come in Prepared.
When you work at a coffee shop, you won’t always have easy access to an outlet. You may think: “No problem, I’ll just use an extension cord.” However, some coffee shops may bar you from doing so.
Aside from this, the coffee shop’s internet may slow down due to the number of people using it.
Thus, another piece essential etiquette you should remember when working in a coffee shop is to be prepared for any eventuality.
Have a backup power source so won’t struggle if you need to recharge with no outlet in sight. You should also have your own pocket Wi-Fi so you’re covered in case the coffee shop’s connection falters.
Pick a Table and Stay There.
Though it may not seem a big deal, table-hopping is inconsiderate to the shop’s staff, since you’re leaving a trail of trash behind for them to clean.
So unless you really have to move (e.g., you need access to an electrical outlet), stick to your original spot.
Clean as You Go.
Part of being a responsible patron is not leaving a mess. You don’t have to wipe your table down yourself, just tidy up your disposables and return the chairs to their original position.
Doing this helps the coffee shop’s staff prepare your table for the next customer. “Isn’t that what the staff is for?,” you ask? Remember, you’re not their only customer for the day.
Don’t Overstay Your Welcome.
No coffee shop owner will appreciate you taking one of their tables for the entire day. Again, you’re not the shop’s only customer. So if you’re not planning on ordering a lot of coffee and/or pastries, don’t stay in there longer than necessary.
Generally, the maximum time is four hours. Any longer, and you may wear out your welcome there.
Working From Home Vs. Working in Coffee Shops
Coffee shops are a great alternative if you’re dealing with cabin fever at home.
However, remember that you’re not the only one staying in the shop, so you must always be mindful. And for a hassle-free experience, remember the etiquette tips regarding working in a coffee shop mentioned above.
Since we’re talking about remote work, are you still searching for an online job? If so, Remote Staff is here to help. Our jobs list contains various positions, so you’ll never run out of options.
Good luck!
