Perhaps it is because I’m based in the Seattle-area, but I spend an exorbitantamount of time in coffee shops and cafes. I would presume that most social networking or media consultants do the same. There is something relaxing about not being in a home office; it helps me focus, actually.
It breaks my focus, however, when other patrons violate the un-spoken rules and mores of such a public setting. Starbucks founder, Howard Schultz, coined the term “third place” (in regards to ‘home‘ and ‘workplace‘ being place one and two, respectively). As such an important pillar in our social norms, I’m putting together a informal list of rules or considerations that should be in the forefront of everyone’s mind when enjoying the caffinated environment.
1) Limited cell phone use
Only when necessary, and only at a low volume. Otherwise, please step outside
2) Use headphones
If you are listening to music or watching a movie-trailer on your laptop, you must use headphones
3) No computer? No plug-in
Please do not squat on a seat next to an electrical outlet if you have no electronics. You and your book can sit by the window, my laptop does not work off solar power, yet.
4) Socializing vs. working
I run into this all the time, when I have headphones in and nose in my laptop, I am not there to socialize. If I make eye-contact, remove my headphones, and smile – feel free to sit down with me and chat. Otherwise, please don’t make me retreat to my home office just to get work done.
What do you think? What would you add to the list?
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Well, I agree with all of these. If you do have your headphones on and don’t acknowledge me, well then that is just rude.
However, people should get the “signal” if you are busy.