Desk Sharing: How To Make It A Success For Everyone and Global Examples

In recent years, shared offices have become increasingly popular as they provide a flexible and cost-effective solution for startups, freelancers, and small businesses. However, working in a shared office can have its challenges, including maintaining productivity, dealing with distractions, and collaborating effectively with others. In this article, we will share six simple hacks to make your shared office a success for everyone.

1. Set clear expectations: Before moving into a shared office space, it's essential to establish clear guidelines with your office mates. Discuss working hours, noise levels, meeting room usage, and common areas' cleanliness to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts in the future.

2. Create a routine: Establishing a daily routine can help you stay focused and avoid distractions in a shared office. Start your day by reviewing your to-do list, prioritizing your tasks, and setting achievable goals for the day. Schedule your breaks, and don't forget to step away from your desk to recharge your batteries.

3. Respect others' privacy: In a shared office, respecting others' privacy is critical to maintaining a positive working environment. Avoid peering over your neighbor's shoulder or interrupting them when they are on the phone. Use headphones if you need to listen to music or take phone calls, and don't forget to keep your voice down to avoid disturbing others.

4. Collaborate effectively: Shared offices are an excellent opportunity to network and collaborate with other professionals in your industry. Attend networking events, introduce yourself to your office mates, and seek opportunities to work together on projects or share resources. Collaborating with others can lead to new business opportunities and expand your skill set.

5. Keep it tidy: Shared offices require everyone to pitch in to keep the space tidy and organized. Clean up after yourself in common areas, such as the kitchen or the bathroom, and avoid leaving your belongings scattered around. A clean and organized workspace can help you stay focused and reduce stress. Read tips about how to keep a clean desk in our article "Clean Desk Clean Mind"

6. Be mindful of others: Shared offices are a community, and being mindful of others can help maintain a positive working environment. Avoid strong-smelling foods, respect others' space, and be courteous and friendly to your office mates.

Here are a few examples of companies using desksharing and activity based working approaches:

1. Airbnb: The online travel marketplace has embraced activity-based working and desk sharing in its San Francisco headquarters. The company's open-plan office space includes a variety of workstations, from standing desks to couches, to accommodate different work styles and preferences. Airbnb's employees have the flexibility to work wherever they feel most productive, whether that's at a desk, in a lounge area, or even outside on the rooftop terrace.

2. Deloitte: The global consulting firm has implemented activity-based working in many of its offices worldwide, including its Amsterdam headquarters. Deloitte's office in Amsterdam features a variety of workspaces, from private offices to open workstations, as well as a range of meeting rooms and collaboration areas. The company's employees can choose where and how they work based on their needs, preferences, and the nature of their tasks.

3. Google: The tech giant is known for its innovative approach to office design and has embraced desk sharing and activity-based working in many of its offices worldwide. For example, Google's London office features a range of workstations, including standing desks, quiet booths, and open work areas. The company's employees can book a workstation via an online booking system and work wherever they feel most comfortable and productive.

4. Microsoft: The software giant has implemented activity-based working in its headquarters in Redmond, Washington. The company's campus features a range of workspaces, from private offices to open work areas, as well as a variety of amenities, such as cafes, fitness centers, and outdoor spaces. Microsoft's employees can choose where and how they work based on their tasks, preferences, and the nature of their work.

In conclusion, desk sharing and activity-based working are becoming increasingly popular among companies of all sizes and industries. By providing more flexible work arrangements and a variety of workspaces, these approaches can improve productivity, collaboration, and employee satisfaction.

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