Trying to boost productivity while working in the common area of a coworking space can be challenging if you are easily distracted. But there are simple things you can do.
We know that coworking spaces offer numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration with other professionals. And it’s been proven that these benefits can directly increase productivity. In fact, 64% of coworking space members say they have improved on completing their tasks on time, and 68% say they are better focused.
But the flip side of the coin is that the same open environment can also bring distractions and the constant temptation to stray from your work.
So here are some helpful tips and tricks experts say will boost your productivity in a coworking space.
Wear Headphones, Even If You’re Not Listening to Music
Invest in a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. This will cut down on the extraneous noise of people walking by your desk or having small conversations nearby. And if listening to music helps you focus, headphones offer a double bonus. Headphones also tend to discourage others from interrupting you. Just remember to take them off before participating in networking sessions!
Take Scheduled Breaks
When professionals around you know you take breaks at 10 a.m. and noon, the likelihood of them connecting with you during those times increases. It is important to connect with others at coworking spaces, but be sure you’re not being bothered or taken away from your work.
Keep Your Workspace Clean and Neat
Stacks of paper piled high or that is about to fall off your desk can be very stressful. A neat workspace creates an inviting place to work and allows you to find what you need to get the job done. When you look more organized, you usually are!
Avoid Impromptu Meetings
Unplanned, impromptu meetings can be a huge waste of time. Whenever possible, schedule a time to meet rather than just letting yourself be taken away from the task at hand. If you have a door, close it to let others know you need some privacy.
Create a Task List to Boost Productivity
When you get to work each morning, plan out your day. Start by making a list of the work that needs to be accomplished. Not only does the list keep you focused, but marking off that last item may motivate you to do the same thing the next day.
Use Time Batching
With time batching, you group similar tasks together, then place them into blocks of time on your calendar. For instance, take all of the mini-tasks associated with payroll. Then create a slot of time on your calendar each week that’s long enough to finish all of the tasks, rather than allotting a slice of time each day for one or two related items.
Take Technology Breaks
To increase your attention span and productivity, Larry Rosen, PhD, professor emeritus of psychology at California State University, recommends taking technology breaks. Instead of picking up your phone every time it rings or refreshing your email every few minutes, put your phone away and close open tabs. Work, undistracted, for 15 minutes. Once you’ve mastered 15 minutes, gradually increase the time.
Take a Walk to Boost Productivity
Leaving your desk for a 10-minute walk is extremely beneficial to how the brain functions. According to a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, even a casual stroll can immediately alter how parts of the brain communicate and coordinate with one another and improve memory function.
Research also shows that 90-minute work sessions followed by short breaks of 15-20 minutes more match our natural energy cycles. This allows us to maintain a better focus and higher energy level throughout the day.
Minimize Interruptions
It takes about 15 minutes to settle back into a task once we are interrupted. And in the common spaces of coworking facilities there always seems to be opportunities to people watch or to listen to your neighbor’s phone conversation. This is where all the above tips come in handy. When all else fails, consider upgrading to a private office and close that door when things are busy.
Choose CoLab at 55 Merritt Boulevard as Your Coworking Facility!
Don’t believe in coworking myths. CoLab offers coworking memberships in a safe, convenient, and cost-effective environment among a community of professionals like you. With a wide variety of office and shared spaces available to choose from, CoLab provides the value, tools, and networking opportunities professionals need to focus on their clients and to grow. Let us help you understand the facts. Contact us at 203-208-8488 for a tour or schedule a tour here!
