Hot Desk Etiquette: What You Need to Know

Hot desking can be unfamiliar for new members, yet its rules are fairly easy to follow. The bottom line is to respect others and avoid causing a nuisance for those sharing the hot desking zone. It’s mostly common sense! Let’s dive into the key considerations when hot desking and some recommendations for the best hot desk spots in Singapore.

Rule #1: Turn On Silent Mode on Your Phone

Hearing message notifications every other second can be irritating for others, especially if someone is trying to focus and do deep work. This is basic etiquette: turn your phone to silent, keep the noise down in general, and be considerate about your volume for the convenience of those around you.

Rule #2: Do Not Eat at Your Workspace

There is a conflicting guideline regarding eating at your workspace. Some coworking locations are strict about this, and if you eat lunch at a shared desk, staff may approach you. However, some coworking operators are more flexible about using desks for eating purposes. To be on the safe side, use the pantry tables and chairs for your meals. If unsure, ask the reception team about their policy. While some snacks and drinks are generally acceptable while working, the main concern is the potential smell that food may produce.

Rule #3: Use Phone Booths for Calls

Online meetings, video calls, or phone calls are best taken in designated phone booths. This is not just for others' comfort but also to maintain the confidentiality of your business communications. If all the phone booths are occupied, approach the staff to ask for a solution. You may be surprised at how helpful they can be, sometimes even offering empty rooms for a short while.

Rule #4: Respect Personal Space

Since hot desking often involves sharing small tables, it’s important to maintain a decent distance from others, especially if you have many belongings. We have seen people putting their bags, screens, and books on the table, taking up too much space and causing discomfort for others. Coworking desks are designed for laptop use, so it’s best to keep your belongings to a minimum.

Rule #5: Work from Home if You Are Feeling Unwell

Lastly, going to a public place, let alone the office, should be avoided when you're unwell. Coughing and sneezing can make others uncomfortable, and they might leave the space because of you. Don’t risk public health and contagion; stay home when you're not feeling well.

We wanted to share these common rules of hot desking to enhance the experience for you and others. If you’re considering visiting any location, here are some recommended hot desking spots in Singapore:

The Work Project at CapitaGreen

Starting from $408 per desk, CapitaGreen is one of the prime locations for the premium coworking space, The Work Project, in Raffles Place. Enjoy its convenient location and helpful community team.

JustCo at Razer Sea HQ

Looking for a workspace around One North? JustCo at Razer Sea HQ, located within walking distance from One North MRT, is perfect with its welcoming interiors. Hot desk packages start at only $265 per desk.

O2Work at Odeon 331

At $350 per desk, enjoy an eco-friendly coworking space in City Hall with green and calming vibes.