While some people are fortunate enough to have access to a solid signal and the chance to accomplish work only in the office, plenty of others out there who count on the world wide web as their gateway to getting things accomplished and earning a paycheck find themselves in circumstances that require getting online from other locales. Whether it happens to be a new gig freelancing on top of a day job or simply trying to find a way to stay sane in a small living space while suddenly switching to the world of telecommuting, it's helpful that so many cities out there offer hot spots. But it's important to remember that wireless internet has its own set of manners to follow, and that doing a good job might mean finding a free table more often than not. Here are five ways to not be a wireless internet mooch, but to still get everything in on deadline.
#1 - Choose the most appropriately sized table. This is a common courtesy for those who are going out as singles to hugely busy bars and cafes, but sometimes having a laptop makes people forget that it's important to leave available table space. This keeps patrons and the waitstaff equally happy, since it means more tables to turn and more tips to earn. So don't take up too much space, and see how much easier it is to work quietly and uninterrupted in a busy spot.
#2 - Consider upgrading to WiMax so that working does not have to be limited to area hot spots. After all, if there are going to be countless afternoons spent staring at a laptop, it only makes sense to do so somewhere that the router is not already overloaded with others doing the same. With this form of connection, all it takes is turning on a computer to be connected to a nationwide network, which means no remembering passwords or bugging others who are on the same network.
#3 - Don't choose a regular spot where getting wireless internet turns into a blood sport. This is just frustrating. No one wants to be fighting over tables or outlets, and the waitstaff in places known for their free Wi-Fi tend to be a bit more put upon than those who are dealing with more low-key crowds. It's also easier to work when everyone else isn't trying to do the same.
#4 - Keep track of how long it's been, and keep ordering at least one item an hour. Those who are in charge of service at restaurants and cafes notice if it's been one espresso for three hours of working, so be sure to keep ordering and they will not spend their shift glaring in your direction.
#5 - Be sure to tip well. This should go without saying, but it's a privilege to not be spending money on web access, if that happens to be the case. So show that appreciation by leaving a tip, and rest assured that the staff there will not be rushing you out the door next time.
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