Can you take calls in a coworking space?

If you’re in a coworking space, you may be wondering if you can make phone calls. The short answer is that you can in most situations. But also like any shared workspace, there are a few key rules to keep in mind.

The majority of contemporary coworking providers know that calls (whether it’s a short check-in or a long client meeting) are a part of daily life in business. Because of this, many spaces are designed with that kind of flexibility in mind and make sure they incorporate soundproof phone booths, private corners and even call-friendly spaces. These design elements make it effortless to take calls without annoying others, or sacrificing your own professionalism or privacy.

Of course not all spaces are the same. Some have quiet zones where there is a no-call policy. So it’s important to learn about your space’s specific layout and what the expected in terms of etiquette – in other words, when you should go to the booths, or when to book a meeting room.

This guide will cover the general norms and expectations around phone calls in coworking spaces, practical tips for making calls without annoying everyone, and what to look for if your workday includes making calls regularly.

Can you take calls in a coworking space?

Yes, at many coworking spaces you can make calls. However, there are usually a few rules that apply. Each provider of a coworking space will have its own policy, and the physical layout of the space will certainly play a role in what you can and can’t do. But these days, most new coworking spaces have a lot of flexibility built right into the design and so you will find phone booths or private areas where people can make calls without annoying anyone else. These booths usually have acoustic panels and are private enough that you could use them for a client call, a team check-in, or even a videoconference.

In most cases, quick calls are generally okay in an open-plan space but longer conversations or loud chit-chat may be discouraged. Again, it depends on the specific space and their policies. Be particularly mindful around quiet zones, though, which are designated spaces for deep concentration and will have a no-call policy.

In the end, coworking spaces aim to be a mix of collaborative and professional. If you will be making regular calls across the day, it might be a good idea to enquire whether there are any dedicated call-friendly spaces directly from your provider, or if a membership tier providing access to private rooms is on offer.

Tips for taking calls in a coworking space

As with all calls in a shared workplace, there’s a bit of etiquette involved to make sure you’re not disturbing your surrounding colleagues so everyone can stay productive. Here’s some practical advice for phone calls in a coworking space:

• Make your call with headphones with built-in mics. This gives you a bit of privacy (everyone around you only hears one side of the conversation) and it’s particularly handy for video calls, or while using services like Zoom or Teams

• Speak softly and be aware of where you are. Remember to keep open-plan spaces quiet enough that others can concentrate. And talking on the phone in a quiet zone is a definite no-no.

• If you are unable to reach a phone booth, look for a semi-private spot or corner in a low-traffic area. A lot of coworking spaces have informal breakout areas or little seating nooks great for quick calls.

• Rent a meeting room or pop into a soundproof phone booth for lengthier conversations on more delicate matters. These are to allow you to have privacy and not disturb others.

• If your schedule permits, have your calls during slower times like late morning or early afternoon when people aren’t crowding the workspace.

By adhering to these simple rules, you can feel freer to take calls with confidence and without sacrificing respect for the neighbours at your coworking space.

Features to look for in a coworking space if you take frequent calls

If you have regular phone or video calls as part of your job, it’s really important to find the perfect coworking space. Not all spaces are created with call-heavy roles in mind, so here’s what to consider:

• Private phone booths or soundproof pods are great for preserving privacy and minimising distractions.

• Bookable meeting rooms provide space for longer conversations, team check-ins or private calls. Seek out flexible booking options and rooms that are tech-enabled, with screens, and/or conference tools.

• Call-friendly zones, whether breakout lounges or designated talking areas, are helpful when booths are in short supply. See if the layout incorporates a quiet space away from the social/collaborative areas.

• Sound insulation across the workspace from acoustic panels to carpeted floors can help to dampen noise significantly.

• Flexible access hours are very useful if your calls are outside of the typical 9 – 5 working hours (for example, if you’re working with teams based in another time zone).

• Finally, enquire about call policies during your tour or trial day. Some spaces have hard-and-fast rules or preferred areas for calls, so it may be worth understanding what’s expected before you sign up.

About One Business Centre

At One Business Centre (OBC) we make sure there’s plenty of space to make a private call or even host a lengthy video conference – without disturbing others who need a quiet environment to work. From meeting clients, to video conferencing or simply working through a busy to-do list, our private booths and dedicated call-friendly zones help you to stay focused throughout your day.

So whatever your co-working needs, OBC has you covered with tailor-made packages at multiple locations throughout Dubai and the UAE. We provide fully furnished offices, coworking spaces, and virtual offices. Designed for convenience and productivity, OBC co-working spaces in Dubai are furnished, high-end facilities, with easy access to board rooms, meeting rooms, and comfortable lounges.

For companies in the process of launching a new venture or scaling an existing business, our spaces are the ideal place for you to optimise your operations.

Contact us today to learn more about OBC’s flexible workspace offerings, and book a free tour of our premium facilities.