Working in a coworking space offers incredible opportunities for networking, collaboration, and inspiration. However, the open, social environment can also present unique challenges for maintaining focus and productivity. After three years of working from various coworking spaces across London and Manchester, I've developed a set of strategies that have transformed my productivity and helped me thrive in shared workspaces.
1. Master the Art of Strategic Seating
Your choice of seat can make or break your productive day. Arrive early to secure a spot that aligns with your work style. If you need deep focus, choose seats away from high-traffic areas like the kitchen or entrance. For collaborative work, position yourself near communal areas where spontaneous conversations can spark new ideas.
Pro tip: Many coworking spaces allow you to reserve desks in advance. Take advantage of this feature to ensure you get your preferred spot, especially during busy periods.
2. Create Portable Productivity Rituals
Establish consistent rituals that signal to your brain it's time to work, regardless of your physical location. This might include brewing your favorite tea, organizing your workspace in a specific way, or listening to a particular playlist during your first 30 minutes.
I always start my day by setting up my laptop stand, arranging my notebooks in a specific pattern, and reviewing my daily goals. These small actions create a sense of familiarity and control in an ever-changing environment.
3. Leverage Technology for Focus
Noise-canceling headphones are non-negotiable in a coworking environment. Invest in a quality pair and curate playlists for different types of work. I use ambient sounds for creative tasks, classical music for analytical work, and complete silence for deep concentration.
Additionally, apps like Forest or Freedom can help you stay focused by blocking distracting websites and tracking your productive time.
4. Time-Block Your Calendar Strategically
Coworking spaces tend to be busiest during traditional office hours. Plan your most focus-intensive work for early mornings or late afternoons when the space is quieter. Use the busy midday hours for collaborative tasks, networking, or administrative work that doesn't require deep concentration.
5. Build Boundaries in an Open Environment
In a shared space, it's crucial to communicate your availability clearly. Use visual cues like headphones to signal when you're in deep work mode. Don't be afraid to politely decline conversations when you're focused—most coworkers understand and respect productivity needs.
Consider having a brief conversation with regular coworkers about your work style and when you're most approachable for discussions.
6. Optimize for Energy Management
Pay attention to your natural energy rhythms and plan accordingly. I've found that my creative energy peaks in the morning, so I tackle writing and strategic planning first thing. Administrative tasks and email processing happen during my afternoon energy dips.
Take advantage of the coworking space's amenities during energy transitions—a quick walk, a coffee break, or a brief chat with a coworker can serve as an effective reset.
7. Create a Mobile Organization System
Since you don't have a permanent desk, develop a portable organization system. Use a caddy or small bag to keep frequently used items together: chargers, notebooks, pens, hand sanitizer, and headphones. This eliminates time wasted searching for essentials and reduces setup time each day.
8. Network with Purpose
One of the greatest advantages of coworking is the networking opportunities, but random conversations can derail productivity. Be intentional about when and how you network. Schedule specific times for socializing—perhaps during lunch breaks or at organized events—and communicate your focus times to regular coworkers.
Quality over quantity applies here: building meaningful relationships with a few key people is more valuable than superficial connections with everyone.
9. Use the Pomodoro Technique with Coworking Twists
The Pomodoro Technique works exceptionally well in coworking environments. Work in 25-minute focused sprints followed by 5-minute breaks. Use these breaks to step away from your desk, grab water, or have a brief conversation with a coworker.
The social aspect of coworking can actually enhance this technique—you're more likely to take proper breaks when others are around, preventing the tunnel vision that can happen when working alone.
10. Establish End-of-Day Closure Routines
Without the natural closure of leaving a personal office, it's easy for work to feel unfinished in a coworking space. Create a clear end-of-day routine: review what you've accomplished, plan tomorrow's priorities, and physically pack up your workspace.
This mental and physical transition signals to your brain that the workday is complete, helping maintain healthy work-life boundaries even in a shared environment.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Community
Remember that the people around you are your greatest resource. Don't hesitate to ask for help, whether it's technical assistance, feedback on an idea, or recommendations for local services. The collaborative spirit of coworking is one of its greatest productivity boosters when leveraged thoughtfully.
Conclusion
Productivity in a coworking space isn't about fighting against the social environment—it's about working with it strategically. By implementing these hacks, you can harness the energy and opportunities of shared workspaces while maintaining the focus and efficiency you need to succeed.
Remember, every coworking space has its own culture and rhythm. Take time to observe and adapt these strategies to fit your specific environment and work style. With practice, you'll find that coworking spaces can actually boost your productivity beyond what you might achieve in isolation.