Last Updated on November 16, 2021 by John Moretti
The last two years of living through global lockdowns have brought about many changes to how people work, one of the significant changes being the increase in the number of people who now work remotely. If you do not already have a dedicated office space, there are a few factors to consider when choosing an appropriate place to work.
Coffee shops are definitely a suitable place to work from, especially since many of them have facilities to specifically cater to those who are there to work. Access to free WIFI, power outlets, and good coffee are some of the many reasons why coffee shops are popular places to work at.
It is safe to say that most people are used to jobs requiring them to work at a dedicated place like an office. With the option of working remotely becoming increasingly popular, it is important to know what to look out for when choosing a space for you to get work done efficiently and productively. Here we will cover a few tips to get you started.
Can You Work From A Coffee Shop?
The easy answer to this question is definitely yes. Coffee shops can undoubtedly be a great place to set up your laptop and get cracking on the work you need to get through for the day.
Most coffee shops nowadays are equipped with power outlets to ensure that those there to work will be able to keep their equipment charged. Some even have dedicated workspaces to cater to those working remotely specifically.
However, not every coffee shop may be suited to your needs for a working environment. There are a good few things to consider and look out for to ensure that your overall experience is satisfactory. Here are a few tips to be considered:
#1 Ensure That There Are Power Outlets & WIFI
Some people might not like to admit it, but living in the digital age has made having an internet connection a high priority. The first thing you’ll want to check for when scouting out a coffee shop to work at is whether they have WIFI. Some coffee shops are stricter and might only offer WIFI for a limited time or may even charge a fee for the connection.
You will also want to ensure suitable power outlets are available to keep your laptop going, especially if you are planning to be there for a few hours. There’s nothing worse than a dead laptop battery when you know that you still have so much to do.
#2 Make Sure It’s A Suitable Work Environment
Depending on the different kinds of work you do, you’ll want to make sure that the coffee shop of your choice will best suit your needs. For example, if a particular coffee shop is crowded and noisy, that probably won’t be conducive to staying focused and getting work done. However, a good pair of noise-canceling earphones could be a good workaround for that.
Some coffee shops have community tables or even dedicated workspaces and boardrooms specifically for those that are there to work. Those are good features to look out for, though they might not be necessary depending on your needs. Ultimately, make sure that there is a comfortable space for you to work.
#3 Set Your Tasks For The Day
When it comes to working remotely, one of the best things you can do is be organized. Knowing exactly why you’re there and what you need to get done is a great way to ensure optimal productivity, especially in an environment that you might not be too familiar with yet.
#4 Be Considerate To Others Working
If you have found a suitable coffee shop to work in, the chances are that a few other people have chosen the same one. A good motto in life to live by is “Treat others the way that you would want to be treated.” Being aware of not being too noisy, like on the phone, for example, or being too chatty with those around you are things to be aware of.
The reason that you are there is to work, which means that others may be too. Mutual respect will undoubtedly go a long way in keeping the coffee shop a suitable workplace.
#5 Be Willing To Share Your Space
As previously mentioned, there will most likely be other people choosing to work at the same coffee shop that you are visiting. There might be limited areas with plug points, or maybe even limited seating. Being willing to share the space with others is not only being courteous to them but also to the business of the coffee shop in general.
#6 Support The Coffee Shop
Another important tip is to make sure that you support your chosen coffee shop. Ideally, you don’t want to be sitting there for hours without even purchasing anything and ultimately not contributing to the success of the coffee shop. Simply put, make sure to pay your way. Order a coffee and maybe even a snack every so often to support your spot.
#7 Take Breaks
One of the many overlooked keys to productivity is making sure that you take breaks. Often the temptation of being in a dedicated workspace is to keep going non-stop. Taking regular short breaks can help reduce fatigue and ultimately keep your focus sharp.
Coffee shops often have great décor and a relaxing environment. Make sure that while you’re working there, you stop to take all of that in. That is, of course, one of the great benefits of working remotely.
#8 Keep Your Phone On Silent
It’s no secret that our phones demand a lot of our attention and can often be one of the biggest forms of distraction in our lives. Keeping your phone on silent can ensure that you don’t get distracted by all unnecessary notifications coming your way.
Aside from maintaining focus, if your phone happens to be frequently ringing, that could also be a disturbance for those working around you. Keeping your phone on silent while working at a coffee shop is a win-win for everybody.
#9 Make Sure They Have Good Coffee
Possibly the most obvious, but arguably the most essential tip for working in a coffee shop is making sure that they actually have good coffee! There’s probably nothing worse than a bad cup of coffee, so choosing a spot with great tasting coffee is arguably just as important as them having WIFI. After all, life’s too short for bad coffee.
Wrapping Up
Living in the digital age has given people much more flexibility when it comes to their work, and having the choice to work remotely is becoming increasingly popular. Coffee shops are undoubtedly a suitable option for a remote workplace. Having some good coffee and getting some work done has never been more trendy.
