7 Creative Ways To Celebrate International Coworking Day At Your Space

As if we needed another reason to celebrate growth, success, dedicated teams and loyal members in the coworking community, along comes International Coworking Day!

On August 9th, coworking spaces around the world will come alive with energy as freelancers, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and creatives of all kinds gather to honor a movement that has revolutionized the way we work.

International Coworking Day, celebrated annually on August 9th, is a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the global coworking movement. This day marks the anniversary of the first dedicated coworking space, which opened in 2005.

It serves as a time for coworking spaces, community members, and industry professionals to reflect on the growth and evolution of coworking, share success stories, and explore the future of work.

But why is this day so special? It’s not just about the free snacks and cool events (though we love those too!).

International Coworking Day is a reminder of the magic that happens when we come together to share, learn, and grow.

It’s a day to celebrate the serendipitous encounters, the spontaneous brainstorms, and the supportive networks that make coworking spaces more than just places to work, but places to thrive.

Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to celebrate International Coworking Day in your space.

Quick Summary

In this blog post, we’re exploring the 7 best ways to celebrate International Coworking Day in your space:

1. Host a Networking Brunch
2. Arrange Skill-Sharing Workshops
3. Organize a Community Service Project
4. Host a Coworking Space Open House
5. Launch a Member Recognition Program
6. Conduct Fun Team-Building Activities
7. Create a Collaborative Art Project

…and providing examples, tips and tricks, and fool-proof strategies to ensuring a successful celebration.

#1 Host a Networking Brunch

Celebrate International Coworking Day by bringing your community together with a vibrant networking brunch. This event is designed to foster connections, spark conversations, and build relationships among members.

Imagine a spread of delicious pastries, fresh fruit, and a variety of beverages, all set in a warm, inviting space. Now add mingling coworkers to the mix and you’ve got a true coworking space celebration.

The brunch will be an opportunity for members to relax, enjoy good food, and get to know one another in a casual and friendly setting.

Benefits of Networking for Coworking Members

Networking is a powerful tool for professionals in any industry. For coworking members, it offers numerous advantages, like:

• Expanding Professional Networks: Meeting new people can open doors to potential collaborations, partnerships, or clients
• Sharing Knowledge and Resources: Members can exchange insights, tips, and resources, enriching their work and professional development
• Building a Sense of Community: Regular networking helps create a supportive environment where members feel more connected and engaged with the space and each other
• Increasing Visibility: It provides an opportunity to lend insight into what each person does, increasing the chances of referrals or other business opportunities

Tips for Organizing a Successful Networking Brunch

As with any event, a networking brunch to celebrate International Coworking Day takes some careful planning and preparation. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Cater to Various Dietary Preferences: Offer a diverse menu that includes options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free or other dietary needs. This ensures everyone can enjoy the meal and feel included. You might also want to consider a buffet-style setup where attendees can easily choose what suits their preferences.
• Create a Relaxed, Informal Atmosphere: Set up comfortable seating arrangements, like lounge chairs or small tables, to encourage mingling. Play soft background music to create a pleasant ambiance without overpowering conversations.
• Encourage Introductions and Sharing of Business Cards: Start with a brief welcome and introduce any new members or special guests. Provide name tags to help everyone remember each other’s names. You could also set up a dedicated area for business cards, or let your members know ahead of time to carry them around for further connecting. Additionally, you could facilitate ice breaker activities or discussion prompts to help kickstart conversations.
• Promote the Event in Advance: Use your coworking space’s communication channels, like newsletters, social media, or a community board, to spread the word and create buzz around your event. Highlight the benefits of attending and any special features, such as guest speakers, giveaways and raffles, or special menu items.
• Follow Up After the Event: Take time after the event to send a “thank you” message to attendees. This shows members you’re committed to seeing they have a great experience all the way through. Including a recap of the event with photos is always a nice touch, and you can take this as an opportunity to encourage your members to connect further on your space’s social platforms or take part in future events.

Additionally, any time you host an event, we recommend asking your attendees for feedback. This will give you insight into what went well and what guests would like to see change in the future.

In the end, hosting a networking brunch can create a memorable and valuable experience for your coworking community, fostering connections and celebrating the spirit of collaboration on International Coworking Day.

Have a dog-friendly coworking space? Invite all members and have some fun!

#2 Arrange Skill-Sharing Workshops

Skill-sharing workshops are a fantastic way to celebrate International Coworking Day by tapping into the diverse talents and expertise within your coworking community.

The concept is simple: members volunteer to teach a skill they are proficient in, whether it be mastering Excel formulas or best practices for negotiating your budget, while others participate to gain insights and practical knowledge.

These workshops allow members to learn from each other, share valuable knowledge, and develop new skills.

Depending on the style and the member-base at your coworking organization, you could also host non-work related skill-sharing workshops.

Allow your members to get to know each other on a personal level by having them volunteer to teach one of their hobbies or passions. How fun would it be to attend a workshop where one of your peers teaches you how to restore old furniture, bake the perfect lemon meringue pie, or start a home garden?

Skill-sharing workshops are the perfect way to pay homage to your community, their skills, and their talents on International Coworking Day.

Potential Workshop Topics

Create a signup sheet with some pre-populated ideas to get the juices flowing, or allow your members to volunteer their own ideas.

Here are some engaging and useful workshop topics that can cater to a wide range of interests, just to get you started:

• Digital Marketing Hacks: Share tips and tricks on leveraging social media, SEO, and content marketing to boost online presence
• Time Management Techniques: Discuss strategies for prioritizing tasks, staying organized, and maximizing productivity
• Creative Problem-Solving Sessions: Explore methods like brainstorming, mind mapping, and lateral thinking to approach challenges innovatively
• Basic Coding for Non-Programmers: Introduce fundamental coding concepts and tools to help non-technical members understand and engage with tech projects
• Effective Communication Skills: Offer guidance on improving interpersonal communication, public speaking, and negotiation skills

Steps to Organizing a Skill-Sharing Workshop

There are 6 essential steps you’ll need to take to plan a successful skill-sharing workshop. Let’s take a look.

1. Survey Members for Areas of Interest: Conduct a survey or use a suggestion box to gather feedback on what topics members are interested in. This helps ensure the workshops are relevant and appealing to your community. Include a section for members to express interest in leading a workshop. This will save you the hassle down the road when it comes time to find volunteers.
2. Identify and Invite Expert Speakers from Within the Community: After reviewing the survey results, identify potential speakers who have expertise in the requested areas. Reach out to these members and invite them to lead a workshop, highlighting the opportunity to share their knowledge and build their personal brand within the community.
3. Schedule Multiple Short Sessions Throughout the Day: Plan for a series of short, focused sessions (i.e. 30-60 minutes each, or 45 minutes with 15 minutes for Q&A) to accommodate a variety of topics and ensure a dynamic event. Create a schedule that allows members to attend multiple workshops, considering different time slots for popular sessions.
4. Promote the Workshops: Use your coworking space’s communication channels to announce the workshop lineup and schedule of events. Highlight the expertise of the speakers and the value of the topics covered. Encourage early sign-ups to manage attendance and ensure a smooth, organized event.
5. Prepare Workshop Logistics: Ensure each workshop has the necessary equipment and materials, such as projectors, whiteboards, or handouts. Set up a comfortable and conducive space for learning, with adequate seating and good visibility.
6. Facilitate Networking and Q&A: Allocate time for Q&A sessions at the end of each workshop, allowing participants to interact with the speaker and clarify any questions that may arise. Encourage networking between sessions, providing opportunities for members to discuss the topics further and build connections.

Make International Coworking Day 2024 a memorable and valuable celebration with skill-sharing workshops.

It’s a guaranteed way to create a vibrant and enriching experience for your coworking community, as these workshops not only provide practical knowledge but also strengthen the sense of community and collaboration.

#3 Organize a Community Service Project

Celebrating International Coworking Day offers an excellent opportunity to reflect on the positive impact your coworking community can have beyond the workplace.

Organizing a community service project not only allows members to give back to the local area but also strengthens the bond amongst strangers. In 2022, around 70% of Americans were in agreement that corporate social responsibility (CSR) was important.

Additionally, 70% of survey participants “feel volunteering boosted employee morale.” Engaging in acts of service fosters a sense of purpose and collective responsibility, reinforcing the values of collaboration and support that are central to coworking culture.

Benefits for Members and Your Organization

Facilitating a community service project that brings your organization together for a common purpose has several benefits to the members, but also to your organization as a whole. Some of the main benefits include:

• Personal fulfillment
• Skill development
• Networking and relationship-building
• Boosted employee morale
• Strong company culture
• Positive brand image

Ideas for Community Service Projects:

While there are an infinite amount of ways your organization could give back to the community, a few that stand out to us are:

• Local Clean-Up Drives: Organize a group to clean up a nearby park, beach, or neighborhood. This activity promotes environmental responsibility and improves the local area’s appearance.
• Volunteering at a Local Charity: Partner with a local charity or nonprofit organization and volunteer your time, whether it’s serving meals at a shelter, organizing a donation drive, or spending time with underprivileged communities.
• Fundraising Events for a Cause: Host a fundraiser, such as a charity auction, bake sale, or fun run, with proceeds going to a cause that resonates with your members.

Engaging Members in the Project

While some members may not jump at the opportunity to volunteer, there are ways to get your community involved.

Promoting the project with as much notice as possible is crucial to getting the word out. Use various communication channels, such as newsletters, social media, and community boards, to inform members about the project.

Highlight the purpose, benefits, and impact of the project to generate interest and enthusiasm. You could also share stories or testimonials from community service events to inspire participation.

However, if general promotion still isn’t doing the trick, you could also try:

• Offering Incentives for Participation: Consider offering small incentives, such as discounts on membership fees, free coworking days, gift cards, or branded merchandise, to encourage participation. Recognizing and celebrating the contributions of participants will go a long way in attracting new participants and retaining existing volunteers.
• Provide Necessary Resources and Support: Organize logistics, such as transportation, supplies, and meals to make participation easy and convenient.
• Create a Collaborative Atmosphere: Encourage members to suggest ideas for the project, or future projects, allowing them to feel more invested in the initiative. Foster a spirit of collaboration by pairing members from different professional backgrounds, enabling them to learn from each other and build new connections.
• Reflect and Share the Experience: After the event, gather feedback from participants and share the outcomes of the project, including photos and stories. This helps build a sense of accomplishment and community pride.

By organizing a community service project, your coworking space can make a positive impact on the local community while providing members with enriching experiences and opportunities to connect.

Celebrating International Coworking Day with a group service project will leave a lasting impression and further strengthen the sense of community within your space.

#4 Host a Coworking Space Open House

Hosting an open house is a fantastic way to celebrate International Coworking Day. By inviting the local community to experience your coworking space firsthand, you’re providing an opportunity to showcase your space’s unique features, amenities, and community vibe.

An open house can attract potential members, foster partnerships, and increase awareness of your space within the local area. It also allows current members to feel proud of their workspace and encourages them to invite friends, expanding the community.

Planning Your Open House

Hosting an open house event is no easy feat. You want to make sure your space is looking its best, and ultimately, sells itself. Take a look at these tips to plan a successful International Coworking Day open house:

• Identify the Focal Points: Before you can do anything else, you’ll need to start by identifying what it is you want to highlight during your open house. Do you want to showcase individual workspaces? Will you have members present on their collaborative projects? Will any members share their success stories or testimonials to emphasize the benefits of joining? Determine the meat and potatoes of your event and build upon that.
• Promote the Event: Use your social media platforms to create buzz around the event. Share posts highlighting what attendees can expect, such as tours, refreshments, and giveaways. Use eye-catching visuals and engaging captions to attract attention. Reach out to local businesses, community organizations, and influencers to spread the word. Post flyers in nearby cafes, libraries, and other public spaces. Utilize local online forums and community boards to announce the event as well.
• Offer Tours and Highlight Unique Features: Prepare guided tours to showcase the different areas of your coworking space, including private offices, meeting rooms, common areas, and any unique amenities like wellness rooms or podcast booths. Highlight special features that set your space apart, such as a variety of membership offerings, ergonomic furniture, state-of-the-art equipment, or a vibrant community culture.
• Provide Refreshments and Giveaways: Offer light refreshments, such as coffee, tea, and snacks to create a welcoming atmosphere. For a more upscale event, you could also offer a small buffet and glasses of champagne. Consider partnering with local vendors for food and drinks, adding a community-supportive element to the event.

Prepare small giveaways, like branded merchandise (pens, notebooks, mugs), or offer a free trial day pass to encourage attendees to experience the space. These tokens can leave a lasting impression and serve as a reminder of the positive experience.

• Offering Referral Incentives: Encourage current members to bring guests by offering referral incentives. You could offer the first month free for each new member who joins from a referral, and the next month free for any current member who refers someone. Additionally, you can offer free day passes. Running a special promotion, such as a discounted membership rate for those who sign up during the open house, can also create a sense of urgency and encourage on-the-spot commitments.
• Creating an Inviting Atmosphere: Ensure the space is clean, well-organized, and inviting. Add some decorative touches, like fresh flowers or banners, to create a festive feel. Have staff and community ambassadors available to greet visitors, answer questions, and provide a friendly, welcoming experience.
• Follow-Up After the Event: Send thank-you emails to attendees, including information on how to join your space, upcoming events, and a reminder of any ongoing promotions. Encourage them to stay connected through your social media channels or newsletter.

Open your doors and introduce your coworking space to a broader audience with an open house; highlighting the benefits of joining your community is a great tribute to International Coworking Day.

Plus, it’s a great way to potentially increase your membership.

An open house not only promotes your space but also strengthens your position as a valuable hub within the local business ecosystem.

#5 Launch a Member Recognition Program

A member recognition program is a thoughtful initiative designed to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions, achievements, and positive qualities of members within a coworking community; what better way to celebrate International Coworking Day?

By highlighting the efforts and successes of individual members, this program fosters a sense of appreciation, belonging, and motivation.

It serves as a way to publicly recognize members who embody the values and spirit of the coworking space, thus strengthening community bonds and creating a positive environment.

Ways to Recognize and Reward Members

While there are several ways to recognize and reward your coworking membership, here are just a few ideas we’ve seen bring positive results:

• Member of the Month Awards: Recognize outstanding members each month by awarding them “Member of the Month.” This can be based on various criteria, such as professional achievements, community involvement, or demonstrating helpfulness and positivity. Feature the selected member with a brief profile on your coworking space’s bulletin board, website, or social media, highlighting their accomplishments and contributions.
• Public Acknowledgement: Different than assigning the title of “Member of the Month,” simply including a dedicated section in your monthly newsletter to celebrate members’ milestones, such as business launches, awards, or anniversaries is a great way to recognize several members at once. Share their stories to inspire others and foster a supportive community. Use your social media platforms to give shout-outs to members for their achievements or contributions. Tagging them and their businesses can also help increase their visibility and engagement.
• Small Gifts or Perks: Offer small gifts or perks as tokens of appreciation. These could include gift cards, branded merchandise, or free access to premium amenities like meeting rooms or event spaces. Consider offering exclusive perks, such as priority booking for events, reserved parking spots, or extended hours of access, to show your gratitude.

Impact of Recognition on Member Satisfaction and Retention

Recognizing members’ efforts and achievements has a profound impact on their overall experience within the coworking space.

It reinforces the sense that they are valued and appreciated, which can significantly boost their satisfaction and morale.

In fact, HR Cloud identifies recognition as being one of the top determining factors of employee retention, saying:

Everyone loves receiving positive feedback, and employee retention is heavily influenced by leadership’s active listening and recognition of employee success.

Furthermore, Quantum Workplace found that:

Organizations with formal employee recognition programs have 31% less voluntary turnover than organizations that don’t have any program at all.”

Their research also showed that employees were nearly 3 times more likely to engage with the organization when they believe they will be recognized.

When members feel acknowledged and celebrated, they are more likely to develop a strong emotional connection with the community.

This emotional connection, in turn, leads to higher levels of engagement and loyalty. They are also more likely to renew their memberships, leading to increased retention rates.

Additionally, a recognition program can enhance the reputation of your coworking space as a welcoming and supportive environment. This positive reputation can attract new members who are seeking a space that values community and personal growth.

Launching a member recognition program allows you to create a culture of appreciation and support within your coworking space. This not only enriches the experience of current members but also helps attract and retain new members, making it a key strategy for fostering a thriving and engaged coworking community.

#6 Conduct Fun Team-Building Activities

Team-building activities are an excellent way to foster a sense of community and collaboration within coworking spaces.

Unlike traditional offices, coworking environments are often comprised of individuals and small teams from diverse industries and backgrounds.

Team-building activities help break down barriers, facilitate networking, and create a more cohesive and supportive community.

They encourage communication, trust, and camaraderie among members, enhancing the overall coworking experience. We can’t think of a better way to celebrate International Coworking Day!

Examples of Engaging Activities

HR World found that 82% of employees in the UK would like their workplace to offer more “regular team building events, in order to boost work satisfaction.” So, “what types of activities are they looking for?” you might ask…let’s take a look.

Examples of fun, engaging activities to do with your team include:

• Escape room challenges
• Scavenger hunts
• Group fitness sessions
• Team hikes
• Attend a sporting event
• Catch some live entertainment
• Lunch, dinner, or after-work happy hours

We also don’t want you to feel pressured to orchestrate day-long, off-site events. While they are typically more fun and tend to attract the most amount of interest, there are plenty of team-building activities you can conduct directly for your coworking space – don’t under-estimate the power of office bingo or yard games.

You could also plan several smaller activities, and conduct one each day leading up to August 9th. This could be a way to host a variety of events, potentially reaching a wider audience, and will keep the celebration going all week long.

Tips for Ensuring Participation and Enjoyment

The worst thing is planning an event that no one comes to. You’ve put so much time and energy into it just to have tumbleweeds rolling across the floor. Don’t let this happen. Follow these tips for ensuring participation and enjoyment:

• Choose Activities that Cater to Diverse Interests: Offer a variety of activities to appeal to different tastes and preferences. For example, while some members might enjoy physical activities, others may prefer more mentally engaging challenges. Consider sending out a survey or polling members beforehand to gauge interest and gather suggestions.
• Provide Clear Instructions and Support: Ensure that all participants understand the rules and objectives of the activities. Provide clear instructions at the beginning and have facilitators or team leaders available to offer guidance and support.
• Create a Friendly, Competitive Spirit: Encourage a sense of friendly competition by organizing teams and offering small prizes or recognition for the winners. This can add excitement and motivation. Emphasize the importance of teamwork and collaboration, reminding participants that the goal is to have fun and build connections.
• Foster a Welcoming and Inclusive Atmosphere: Create an environment where all members feel comfortable participating, regardless of their level of familiarity with the activities. Encourage inclusivity and respect among participants. Consider having icebreaker activities at the beginning to help everyone feel more at ease and open to interacting with others.

Team-building activities are a great way for you to enhance the sense of community and connection within your coworking space.

These activities provide a unique opportunity for members to interact, collaborate, and create lasting memories together. Celebrating International Coworking Day with such engaging events not only adds to the enjoyment of the day but also contributes to a more vibrant and cohesive coworking community.

#7 Create a Collaborative Art Project

A collaborative art project is a creative and engaging way to celebrate International Coworking Day, bringing together the diverse talents and perspectives within your coworking community.

This type of project allows members to collectively contribute to a shared piece of art, fostering a sense of unity and creativity.

Examples of Collaborative Art Projects

Whether it’s a mural, a community mosaic, or an interactive installation, collaborative art projects can transform your coworking space into a vibrant canvas that reflects the unique spirit of your community.

Let’s take a closer look at ways to create a collaborative art project amongst your members.

• Mural Painting: Design a large mural that members can paint together on a designated wall. The mural can depict themes related to your coworking community, local culture, or a shared vision for the future. This project not only beautifies the space but also creates a lasting piece of art that everyone can take pride in.
• Community Mosaic: Create a mosaic using tiles, glass, or other materials, with each member contributing a piece. The final artwork can represent a unified image or pattern, symbolizing the diverse yet interconnected nature of your coworking community.
• Interactive Installation: Set up an interactive installation where members can add their contributions over time. This could be a sculpture made of recyclable materials, a “wishing tree” where members write and hang their aspirations, or a canvas where members add their artistic touches. The project evolves over time as more people participate, showcasing the dynamic nature of your community.

Facilitating the Project

Organizing a group art project takes time, planning, and resourcing. Use these guidelines to help you facilitate the project:

• Secure a Designated Space: Choose a prominent and accessible area within your coworking space for the project. Ensure that the space is well-prepared and can accommodate the materials and activities involved in the project. Clearly mark the area and provide information about the project, including guidelines for participation and the project’s theme or purpose.Consider creating a sign-up schedule or organizing designated times for different groups to work on the project. This can help manage the flow of participants and ensure everyone has a chance to contribute if you have a high volume of members.
• Provide Materials and Guidance: Supply all necessary materials, such as paints, brushes, tiles, adhesive, and protective coverings. Consider partnering with local art supply stores or artists for quality materials and additional support.

If needed, invite a local artist or an experienced member to provide initial guidance or conduct a brief workshop on techniques and ideas. This helps members feel more confident in contributing, regardless of their artistic skills.

• Encourage Creative Contributions: Promote inclusivity by encouraging all members to participate, regardless of their artistic background. Emphasize that the goal is to express individuality and contribute to a collective masterpiece.
• Document the Process: Capture the progress of the project through photos or videos, documenting the different stages and the involvement of various members. This can be shared on social media or in newsletters to keep the community engaged and excited about the project. It could also catch the attention of potential new members, showcasing the type of community they could be a part of.
• Showcase Your Work: Plan a small unveiling or celebration once the project is complete, allowing everyone to appreciate the finished artwork and the collective effort behind it. Make this a big deal and recognize your contributors. You might even consider starting the project ahead of time and have your unveiling on August 9th; International Coworking Day is the perfect time to exhibit your community’s work of art.

Creating a collaborative art project is a wonderful way to celebrate International Coworking Day, as it embodies the essence of community, creativity, and collaboration.

Conclusion

International Coworking Day is intended to highlight the collaborative spirit, innovation, and flexibility that coworking spaces offer, providing opportunities for freelancers, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small businesses to work in shared environments.

International Coworking Day also emphasizes the positive impact of coworking on productivity, creativity, and work-life balance, making it an important occasion for anyone involved in or interested in the coworking industry.

So, let’s raise a cup of coffee (or two) to the vibrant community that is coworking and the exciting future ahead. Whether you’re a coworking veteran or a curious newcomer, join us in celebrating the essence of coworking: collaboration, connection, community, and creativity. After all, there’s no fun in celebrating alone, so let’s embrace the joy of coworking together!