Being well-prepared for your first day in a new coworking space is the easiest way to make the most of your experience.

If you don’t have the supplies you need or you’re physically uncomfortable, you won’t enjoy your new community and you won’t want to keep working there.

Here are a few things you should bring with you on your first day in a coworking space to make sure you have an enjoyable and productive day.

Work Supplies

You joined a coworking space to work, so make sure you’re prepared to do exactly that.

Pack any electronics you think you might need throughout the day, including your computer and phone. Don’t forget to pack charging cables too – your coworking space may have some chargers available for use, but you don’t want to risk your laptop dying right before a meeting.

Make sure you have any connectors or cables you may need as well, especially if you intend to connect to an external monitor or presentation screen.

Headphones are also a must. While some coworking spaces allow community members to take calls in open work areas, you should still be respectful of your coworkers by not putting your phone on speaker or listening to video calls out loud. Plus, you’ll be able to listen to music while you work or help muffle distracting noises.

If there’s anything else you like to have on hand while you work, bring those too. Pens, paper, and an external mouse are all things that might be useful for you, but hard to come by in a shared office space.

Personal Items

Some things you don’t need to do your work, but they can help you feel comfortable or network in a shared space.

Coworking spaces usually have coffee, tea, and water available, but the cup situation will vary. Bringing your own travel mug or water bottle can ensure you always have your preferred drink on hand while reducing waste from disposable cups.

It’s a good idea to bring snacks, as well. Some coworking spaces have vending machines on-site, and others even provide free snacks to their members, but that doesn’t mean they will have snacks you like.

Be prepared for lunch, too. You can either pack a lunch or bring money to buy lunch from a restaurant nearby. You might want to scope out your lunch options ahead of time, just in case.

Having a sweater or jacket with you is a good idea in a new coworking space. Temperatures can be inconsistent in open work areas, and your idea of comfortable may differ from someone else’s. Wearing or bringing layers can help you adapt and stay comfortable no matter what the thermostat says.

Because coworking spaces invite socializing as much as they are intended for work, it is a good idea to keep some business cards with you. This way you’re prepared to make a good impression on the people you meet.

Conclusion

Last, but not least, you should always bring your best. Your first day in a new coworking space is your first impression on the community there.

Take the time to introduce yourself to the other members around you. Be polite when starting conversations, be respectful as you work, and leave your workspace clean.

Ultimately, your experience in a coworking space is largely up to your attitude and preparedness. You have to be willing to make the best of your new coworking space.