7 Networking Tips for Getting the Most Out of Co-Working Spaces

Networking allows you to connect with other professionals, which can create business opportunities, help you find new clients and discover people to collaborate with. Networking can feel daunting at first, but once you get lost in a conversation with someone, everything can feel more natural. If you want to make professional connections but you’re not sure where to start, here are seven tips to get you prepared. 

 

Start With Small Talk 

A great place to network is in communal areas like a breakout space or a shared kitchen. By doing this, you aren’t distracting anyone from their work. Of course, if they seem immersed in a phone call or have their headphones in, it’s best not to approach them. One of the best ways to begin a conversation with someone you don’t know is to start simple. You could say something like “It’s hot outside today, isn’t it.” From this simple comment, you might start chatting, and you could end up having a conversation about what you do for work. During your chat, ask them if they have a LinkedIn account, an email or a business card you can have. The next time you bump into them, you might have another conversation. And before you know it, you’ve networked successfully! 

 

Attend On-Site Events and Workshops

Many coworking spaces hold events and workshops where you can meet other professionals and learn valuable information. There are many different types of events, and it’s important to look out for them and attend when you’re able to. Here are some examples: 

Networking events: These are specifically designed to allow you to connect with like-minded individuals. Everyone is there for the same reason - to network, which can make it less daunting. 
Workshops and seminars: Attending these is the perfect way to gain valuable industry insights and helpful advice. If a speaker is giving a talk or presenting, take a moment to have a conversation with them afterwards if you have the chance. 
Social events: The purpose of a social event is to get to know people better and break the ice, which is a great place to start when networking. 

 

Use the Space’s Community Platforms and Apps

Many spaces have their own platform, which you may be able to use to connect with others in the building. Through this, you might also be able to find out about the space’s workshops and networking events. Keep an eye out for updates like these so you don’t miss out on opportunities to network. If your coworking space does have a platform available, make sure you use it to your advantage!

 

Offer Help Before You Ask for It

By offering help, you can show that you’re willing to get involved and contribute where possible. People will appreciate this, and it can help build a positive image in their minds of who you are. They’ll remember your kindness and may be willing to help you in the future. 

 

Don’t Just Network With Your Industry

There are opportunities all around; you don’t necessarily have to be specific with who you network with. You might learn a skill from someone or discover a piece of information which you can take on board. It’s also important to remember that professionals often have a range of connections. You might talk to a person who has a connection with someone in your line of work who they can put you in touch with. 

 

Schedule Coffee Chats and Lunches

Scheduling a meet up allows you to set aside a period of time to get to know someone better and learn about what they do. It provides the chance to have an in-depth conversation, which could potentially lead to business opportunities. One of the best times to do this is during your lunch hours, as it’s convenient. Professionals will appreciate it if you schedule a chat, as it shows you’re interested in what they do and are willing to find out more. 

 

Start Networking at Spacepool’s Co-Working Spaces Today

If you want to use a coworking space where you can network and work beside professionals, we’re here to help. We provide access to a whole market of verified and trusted operators, which allows you to compare multiple different workspaces. No place is the same, and you can search for anything specific, like an amenity or location you have in mind, by using our filtering tool. With Spacepool, you can search, hire, pay and download invoices directly from your account; it’s as easy as that! It’s free to register with us and search for the perfect workplace today.