Coworking spaces are much more than just shared offices. They are vibrant hubs teeming with networking opportunities. The question you should ask yourself is, are you making the most of them? What makes coworking spaces an excellent place for entrepreneurs and freelancers is not just the promise of a desk but also the opportunity to […]
Coworking spaces are much more than just shared offices. They are vibrant hubs teeming with networking opportunities. The question you should ask yourself is, are you making the most of them?
What makes coworking spaces an excellent place for entrepreneurs and freelancers is not just the promise of a desk but also the opportunity to take advantage of and be a part of a lively, supportive community where you can connect, and collaborate. These workspaces differ from traditional offices in that they provide a unique opportunity to network with other like-minded professionals.
In this article, we share essential networking tips for business growth so you can transform these opportunities into valuable professional connections.
Networking is much more than just swapping business cards; it’s about building real connections. Greeting your coworkers with a smile and a simple hello goes a long way toward opening a dialogue.
Remember, most people in coworking spaces are open to meeting new people. Don’t hesitate to walk up to your coworkers and introduce yourself. You never know; a casual chat by the coffee machine could turn into your next big opportunity.
Shared areas in your coworking space, such as the cafeterias, lounges, or breakout rooms offer an excellent opportunity to get to know your coworkers. People tend to be more relaxed in such spaces and can be more open to conversations.
Instead of eating lunch at your workstation, have it at communal spots. Spend some time during the week chatting with your coworkers over coffee. Utilise these spaces to forge genuine connections, and maybe even start new collaborations.
Another networking tip for business growth involves attending community events in your coworking space. Coworking spaces frequently hold community events such as business meetups, skill-sharing workshops, and casual get-togethers. These social events are an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded professionals.
Attending such events not only helps you stay visible but also gives you a chance to meet professionals you might not cross paths with during your usual workday.
One of the best things about coworking spaces is their relaxed, informal vibe. Unlike traditional offices, there’s more room for spontaneous interactions. Make the most of this by being approachable, making eye contact, and showing genuine curiosity about the people around you.
One of the most effective ways to build connections is by being helpful. If you hear someone discussing a challenge you’re familiar with, don’t hesitate to offer advice or share a useful resource.
By being generous with your knowledge and experience, you not only build trust but also position yourself as a valuable part of the coworking community. If you are a seasoned entrepreneur yourself, you can also offer informal mentorship to newer entrepreneurs to expand your network.
6. Stay in Touch and Follow Up
A great conversation is just the start of building lasting connections. Make it a habit to exchange contact details and follow up with the people you meet, whether it’s through a LinkedIn message, a quick coffee chat, or a friendly email.
Staying in touch shows that you value the relationship and are interested in keeping the connection alive. Over time, these small efforts add up and can evolve into strong professional bonds that open up new opportunities.
Networking doesn’t come to everyone naturally, this is especially for more introverted individuals. Here’s a list of some common challenges you can encounter during networking and how to overcome them:
Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or a growing business, your choice of coworking space can make a difference in how you network. At GO (Garden Office) Bermondsey, we provide an environment designed to spark conversations and cultivate meaningful relationships.
Our fully serviced, ready-to-move-in offices and meeting rooms have well-stocked refreshment areas and vibrant breakout zones—all thoughtfully designed to encourage interaction and engagement. Here, startups, freelancers, and established businesses come together to form a dynamic, supportive community.
To know more about GO Bermondsey, book a visit now!
