Coworking spaces, or shared working spaces as some may call it, allow you to set up and run your business without having to own or rent a whole property. Not only do you get access to different facilities and a cost-effective office space, but you also get to meet people from different types of fields, some of whom might be interested in networking with you. In fact, because coworking spaces are jam-packed with creative minds, networking with those around you is something you must do while you’re there.
But how do you effectively network with your neighbors in a coworking space? Here’s how:
1. Ask for Referrals
Remember: nobody in the world has all the skills to tackle every single business problem out there. For example, you might be an expert in SEO strategizing but have zero clue on how to write engaging content for your website.
That’s why, whenever you have a need, you should ask around. You should be asking for referrals when you can, as a coworking space is an excellent resource. Not only can this prove useful in your search, but if you find someone you can work with in the long run, it can be an extremely affordable solution, too.
By doing this, you’ll be able to grow your network over time, allowing you even greater access to a pool of knowledge, skill, and expertise to help your business thrive.
2. Set Up Partners
Once you get acquainted with other workers in the shared office space, you’ll find chances to grasp at opportunities and set up new partners. For example, if you need a graphic designer to help you create eye-catching posters to promote your business, rather than looking outside for help, you might find someone in the office that’s talented and is willing to help you—with compensation of course.
In other words, a great way to network is to let your needs be known to those around you, giving those that have the necessary skills you require to assist you in delivering the results you’re looking for.
3. Share Your Knowledge
When you’re going about your work in any coworking space, you’ll find yourself, as well as other people, sharing knowledge. Not only are you going to find yourself talking about your past experiences, but even the skills you’ve acquired and perhaps the successes and failures you’ve gone through along the way.
While this at first might seem like a friendly conversation you’d have with just about anyone, it is a chance for you to gain information that might be vital to your business. For example, you might learn insights from markets you’ve never thought about venturing into before.
At CoCoTiv, it is our mission to provide our members with a space to work together. We truly value our sense of community here, and as an independent coworking space, this is what set us apart for the larger players in the industry.
Conclusion
Networking in coworking spaces, while it isn’t something you’re forced to do, is something you should be doing as much as possible. Failure to do so will mean that you will run out of fresh perspectives to tackle new problems. In other words: no network means no insight!
As such, if you’ve just started working in a shared space and haven’t been up to networking just yet, then it’s time to get straight to it. Before you know it, you’ll be flooded with fresh new ideas and opportunities to help your business grow and flourish.
If you’re looking for a coworking space in Charlotte, NC, we’re here for you! Get in touch with us to set up a meeting!