The Art Of Community Building In Coworking Spaces

In the bustling world of modern work, where freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers converge, coworking spaces have emerged as vibrant hubs of collaboration and innovation.

But beyond the sleek desks and high-speed Wi-Fi lies a secret ingredient that can make or break the coworking experience: Community.

In 2022, Harvard Business Review conducted a study where they surveyed nearly 1,500 working professionals to determine the scope of workplace communities. In their report, HBR explained:

When people had a sense of community at work, we found that they were 58% more likely to thrive at work, 55% more engaged, and 66% more likely to stay with their organization. They experienced significantly less stress and were far more likely to thrive outside of work, too.

In this blog post, we’re exploring why creating a strong sense of belonging is not just a nice-to-have, but a crucial element for success and satisfaction in these shared environments. From practical tips to inspiring success stories, we aim to equip you with the tools and strategies needed to foster a dynamic and supportive community.

So, whether you’re a coworking space manager, a member looking to make the most of your environment, or simply curious about the inner workings of these collaborative spaces, this guide is here to help you turn your coworking space into a flourishing network of connections and creativity.

Quick Summary

• Understanding what a coworking community is, why it’s important, and strategies to build a team that thrives because of one another
• Exploring how coworking spaces can use technology to grow their community base
• Community-building success stories

Understanding the Importance of Community in Coworking Spaces

“Community” can be defined as, “a social group of any size whose members reside in a specific locality, share government, and often have a common cultural and historical heritage.”

In coworking spaces, community isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the heartbeat of a thriving environment.

It’s a dynamic and evolving network of individuals who share more than just a workspace—they share a sense of belonging and a collective drive for success.

Beyond just a place to work, a well-knit community drives productivity and sparks creativity, making the coworking experience more fulfilling and dynamic.

In a 2023 study put out by Workable, the question was asked, “In regards to employers, what would attract you to a new opportunity?” There’s no surprise that “Relationship with colleagues/teammates” was the overall top choice, followed closely by “Overall company culture.”

Community goes well beyond just having a few friends in the office though. It has much more of an impact on employee well-being than most people recognize.

Benefits of a Strong Coworking Community

A strong community can unlock a wealth of benefits, from fostering rich collaboration and networking opportunities to enhancing member satisfaction and retention.

Gallup recently did a survey identifying the top 12 factors that have the most impact on employee engagement. Among those 12 factors, the following statements stand out:

• “My supervisor, or someone at work, seems to care about me as a person”
• “There is someone at work who encourages my development”
• “I have a best friend at work”
• “This last year, I have had opportunities at work to learn and grow”
• “In the last seven days, I have received recognition or praise for doing good work.”

Although this survey was geared towards determining employee engagement data, these 5 metrics indicate a supportive and engaged community.

Dive in further as we explore how cultivating a robust community can transform your coworking space into a powerhouse of innovation and connection.

Increased Collaboration and Networking Opportunities

A vibrant community transforms a coworking space into a fertile ground for collaboration. When members feel connected and engaged, they’re more likely to reach out, share ideas, and seek partnerships.

This interconnectedness can lead to new business ventures, innovative projects, and valuable exchanges of knowledge.

The spontaneous conversations that occur in communal areas, the informal networking events, and the shared experiences all contribute to a rich tapestry of opportunities that extend far beyond the confines of individual work.

Enhanced Member Satisfaction and Retention

A strong community is the bedrock of member satisfaction in coworking spaces. When individuals feel they are part of a supportive and active network, they are more likely to remain committed to the space.

The sense of belonging and the positive experiences that arise from interacting with like-minded professionals can significantly enhance overall satisfaction.

Members are not just paying for a desk; they’re investing in a community that adds value to their professional lives.

This increased satisfaction naturally translates to higher retention rates, reducing turnover and fostering a stable and thriving environment.

Improved Productivity and Creativity

Community doesn’t just boost morale; it can also enhance productivity and creativity. When members are part of a collaborative network, they benefit from diverse perspectives and expertise.

This exposure to different ways of thinking can spark new ideas and solutions, driving innovation.

Additionally, the support and encouragement found within a strong community can help individuals overcome challenges and stay motivated.

A positive and engaged environment can lead to a more productive and creative workforce, where members are inspired to push boundaries and achieve their best work.

In essence, the strength of a coworking space’s community directly impacts its success. By cultivating a vibrant and supportive network, coworking spaces can unlock a myriad of benefits that enhance both individual and collective experiences.

And this can lead to new members and more returning members.

Creating a Welcoming Environment

A welcoming environment is the cornerstone of a thriving coworking community. To foster meaningful interactions and connections, it’s essential to design a space that naturally encourages engagement while also catering to the diverse needs of its members. In other words, you need to excel at hospitality.

Here’s how to create an inviting atmosphere that promotes both collaboration and comfort.

Designing a Space That Encourages Interaction

The layout of a coworking space plays a critical role in facilitating interaction among members. Open layouts and common areas are key elements in this design philosophy.

By incorporating spacious communal tables and comfortable seating, you create natural gathering spots where people can easily strike up conversations and collaborate on projects.

These areas should be strategically placed to encourage organic interactions without feeling forced.

In addition to communal tables, consider designing cozy nooks and lounge areas with plush seating where members can relax and engage in more informal discussions.

These spaces should feel inviting and accessible, creating an atmosphere where members feel comfortable taking breaks and mingling with others. By thoughtfully arranging these areas, you can create a sense of flow and connectivity throughout the workspace.

Providing Amenities That Cater to Diverse Needs

A truly welcoming coworking space offers amenities that cater to a wide range of preferences and work styles. Coffee stations and snack bars, for example, are not just about providing refreshments—they are social hubs where members can take a break and engage in casual conversations.

Stock these areas with a variety of options to cater to different tastes and dietary needs, enhancing the overall experience and making members feel valued.

Amenities don’t just start and stop with gourmet pastries and craft beer though. Amenities also refer to the actual workspace and what is available to members.

While lounge areas provide a space for socializing and unwinding with their comfortable seating and relaxed atmosphere, quiet zones are essential for those who need a focused, distraction-free environment.

Equipping these zones with comfortable workstations and noise-reducing features ensures that members have the flexibility to choose the setting that best suits their needs at any given time.

Private meeting rooms are another crucial amenity. These spaces offer privacy for important calls, client meetings, or group discussions that require a more controlled environment. By providing a range of room sizes and configurations, you can accommodate different group dynamics and purposes, ensuring that all members have access to the facilities they need to work effectively.

Check out this guide to see the must-have coworking space amenities and this one to see some that make you stand out.

Encouraging Member Interaction

Fostering a strong community within coworking spaces hinges on encouraging member interaction. Creating opportunities for members to connect, share knowledge, and build relationships is vital for a vibrant and collaborative environment.

Here’s how to effectively encourage interaction through events, activities, and thoughtful introduction strategies.

Hosting Regular Events and Activities

Regular events and activities are the lifeblood of a dynamic coworking community. By organizing a diverse range of events, you can cater to different interests and professional needs, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

• Networking Events: These are essential for building professional connections. Hosting regular networking events where members can meet, exchange business cards, and discuss potential collaborations helps to strengthen the professional fabric of the community.
• Workshops and Seminars: Educational events such as workshops and seminars provide valuable opportunities for skill development and knowledge sharing. Inviting industry experts to lead these sessions can offer members insights into new trends and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

You could also give your members the opportunity to speak on topics of their choosing. Members might be more apt to attend a speaking event if one of their peers was presenting, and this could open the door to furthering those relationships by building trust.

• Social Gatherings: To balance the professional events, social gatherings, like happy hours, game nights, and communal lunches, are just as important. These informal settings allow members to relax and get to know each other on a personal level, building trust and camaraderie.

Get creative. Try something new. Your members will appreciate the effort you put into providing them with a better experience.

Implementing Member Introductions and Icebreakers

Introducing new members effectively and breaking the ice can set the tone for a welcoming and inclusive community. Consider these strategies:

• Welcome Packages and Orientation Sessions: Providing new members with a welcome package that includes information about the coworking space, upcoming events, and tips for getting the most out of the community can make them feel valued from the start. Additionally, orientation sessions where new members are introduced to the space and fellow coworkers can help them integrate quickly could be great for those looking to meet new people immediately.
• Member Spotlights: Highlighting individual members through spotlights in newsletters, on social media, or even in a physical spot within your location can make members feel recognized and appreciated. These spotlights can include brief profiles, professional achievements, and personal interests, helping members find common ground and spark conversations with these local celebrities.
• Icebreakers: Implementing icebreakers during events or through online platforms can also facilitate introductions. Simple activities like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Speed Networking” can help members get to know each other in a fun and engaging way.

Newsletters and Communication Channels

Effective communication is key to keeping members informed and engaged. Regular newsletters can serve as a central hub for updates, event announcements, and member spotlights.

They provide an excellent platform for highlighting upcoming activities, sharing community news, and recognizing member achievements.

Additionally, maintaining active communication channels, such as Slack groups or private social media pages, can keep the conversation going and encourage daily interaction among members.

Facilitating Collaboration and Networking

A key aspect of building a thriving coworking community is facilitating collaboration and networking among members.

By creating opportunities for professional collaboration through skill-sharing sessions, peer-to-peer learning, and joint projects, coworking spaces can harness “The Network Effect” – the phenomenon where the value of a network increases as more people participate.

As members engage, share expertise, and collaborate on initiatives, the community becomes more valuable and dynamic, driving innovation and growth.

By prioritizing these collaborative opportunities, coworking spaces can cultivate a vibrant, interconnected community where everyone benefits from the collective knowledge and support.

Creating Opportunities for Professional Collaboration

Encouraging professional collaboration within a coworking space involves offering structured opportunities for members to share their skills and work together on projects. Here are some effective strategies:

• Skill-Sharing Sessions and Peer-to-Peer Learning: Organize regular skill-sharing sessions where members can showcase their expertise and teach others. These sessions can cover a wide range of topics, from digital marketing techniques to coding workshops. Peer-to-peer learning not only enhances the skills of participants but also builds a sense of community as members learn from each other. This is also a great way to celebrate International Coworking Day.
• Joint Projects: Promote the development of joint projects where members from different fields can collaborate. These projects can be initiated by the coworking space management or by members themselves. Providing a platform for these collaborations, such as a dedicated project board or regular brainstorming sessions, can lead to innovative outcomes and strengthen professional relationships.
• Team-Building Exercises: Incorporate team-building exercises into your coworking space’s routine. Activities like hackathons, design sprints, or problem-solving challenges can bring members together, fostering a spirit of teamwork and collaboration. These exercises can help break down barriers and encourage members to work closely with those they may not have interacted with otherwise.
• Internal Boards or Committees: Allow your members the opportunity to have a say and make a difference in this community. Create boards or committees for events, holidays, or other initiatives you want to implement. Working together towards a common goal for something that impacts every member is a surefire way to build a stronger community.

Utilizing Digital Platforms for Networking

In today’s digital age, leveraging online tools can significantly enhance networking and collaboration efforts. Digital platforms offer a convenient way for members to connect, share information, and collaborate on projects, even when they are not physically present in the coworking space.

• Member Directories: Create a comprehensive member directory that includes profiles, skills, and contact information. This directory can be a valuable resource for members seeking expertise or potential collaborators.
• Online Forums: Online forums and discussion boards can also facilitate conversations on specific topics, allowing members to share knowledge and seek advice.
• Communication Tools: Use communication tools like Slack or dedicated coworking apps to keep the community connected. These platforms can host various channels for different interests, projects, or teams, enabling members to easily communicate and collaborate. Regularly updating these channels with relevant information and encouraging active participation can keep the community engaged and informed.
• Coworking Intranet: An intranet for your coworking space might not make sense to many smaller or mid-sized coworking organizations but can be beneficial to larger facilities or groups with multiple locations. This type of platform will ultimately help you manage all of the digital platforms above in one location, as well as enhance communication amongst members.

By integrating these strategies into your coworking space, you can create a dynamic environment where collaboration and networking thrive.

Building a Culture of Inclusivity and Support

Creating a coworking space that thrives on inclusivity and support is essential for fostering a strong and vibrant community.

Promoting diversity and offering unwavering support to all members not only enriches the community but also cultivates an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

A truly inclusive coworking space celebrates the diversity of its members and ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, feels welcome and respected. Here’s how to promote diversity and inclusion effectively:

• Celebrating Different Cultures and Backgrounds: Organize events and activities that celebrate the diverse cultures and backgrounds of your members. This can include cultural festivals, international potlucks, and awareness days. Displaying art, music, and literature from various cultures in communal areas can also create a welcoming atmosphere that honors diversity.
• Offering Support for Underrepresented Groups: Proactively support underrepresented groups by creating dedicated spaces and programs that address their unique needs. This could include women in tech meetups, minority entrepreneur panels, or LGBTQ+ networking events. Providing scholarships or discounted memberships for underrepresented groups can also make coworking spaces more accessible.

A diverse member base will breathe life into your coworking space allowing professionals from all walks of life the opportunity to celebrate who they are.

Encouraging a Supportive Environment

A supportive coworking space fosters an atmosphere where members feel encouraged and motivated to pursue their goals. Establishing mentorship programs and providing resources for growth are key components of this supportive culture.

• Establishing Mentorship Programs: Develop mentorship programs that connect experienced professionals with those who are new to their fields or facing specific challenges. These programs can offer guidance, share knowledge, and provide valuable networking opportunities. Regularly scheduled mentorship meetings and check-ins can help build lasting relationships and ensure ongoing support.
• Providing Resources for Personal and Professional Development: Equip your coworking space with resources that cater to the personal and professional development of your members. This can include access to online courses, workshops, and webinars on various topics. Creating a resource library with books, articles, and tools that support growth and development can be immensely valuable.

Leveraging Technology to Enhance Community Building

Technology can play a pivotal role in enhancing community within coworking spaces. By leveraging coworking management software and community engagement tools, you can streamline operations, foster connections, and create a more cohesive and interactive community.

Coworking Management Software

Implementing effective coworking management software can transform how you manage and engage with your community. These tools help streamline operations and enhance member experiences.

• Booking Systems: Efficient booking systems are essential for managing the use of shared resources such as meeting rooms, workspaces, and event spaces. With user-friendly interfaces, like that of OfficeRnD Flex, members can easily reserve spots and check availability in real-time, reducing conflicts and ensuring smooth operations.
• Event Management: Organizing events becomes seamless with event management features integrated into coworking software. Members can RSVP, view event details, and receive reminders, fostering higher participation and engagement. And event analytics can help you understand attendance patterns and member preferences, allowing you to tailor future events accordingly.
• Member Portals: Member portals serve as central hubs where members can access essential information, connect with peers, and manage their memberships. Such portals can include directories, profiles, billing information, and access to resources, enhancing transparency and convenience.

Community Engagement Tools

Engaging members and fostering a sense of community requires the right tools to facilitate communication and interaction. Here are some effective community engagement tools to consider:

• Social Media Groups: Creating dedicated social media groups for your coworking community can foster ongoing interaction and engagement. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn can host these groups, providing spaces for members to share updates, discuss topics of interest, and network beyond the physical coworking space.
• Internal Newsletters: Regular internal newsletters are a powerful way to keep members informed and connected. Such newsletters can highlight upcoming events, member spotlights, community news, and valuable resources. Consistent communication through newsletters helps build a sense of unity and keeps everyone in the loop.
• Feedback Forms: Gathering feedback from members is crucial for continuous improvement and member satisfaction. Implementing digital feedback forms allows members to share their thoughts, suggestions, and concerns easily. Regularly reviewing this feedback and making necessary adjustments demonstrates that you value member input and are committed to enhancing their experience.

Measuring and Improving Community Engagement

To build a thriving coworking community, it’s essential to actively measure engagement and make adjustments as you go. By collecting feedback from your members, analyzing engagement metrics, and continuously adapting based on this information, you can ensure your coworking space remains dynamic and responsive to member needs.

Collecting Feedback from Members

Understanding how your members feel and what they need is the first step in fostering a vibrant community. Here are some effective ways to gather valuable feedback:

• Surveys: Regularly distribute surveys to collect insights on member satisfaction, preferences, and suggestions. The surveys can cover various aspects of the coworking experience, from workspace amenities to community events. Ensure that surveys are concise and easy to complete, and consider offering incentives to encourage participation.
• Suggestion Boxes: Physical or digital suggestion boxes provide an anonymous way for members to share their thoughts and ideas. This can be especially useful for those who may be hesitant to provide feedback openly. Regularly review and act on the suggestions to show members that their input is valued and impactful.
• Focus Groups: Conducting focus groups with a diverse mix of members can provide deeper insights into specific issues or areas for improvement. That will allow for more detailed discussions and can help uncover nuanced perspectives that surveys might miss.

Analyzing Engagement Metrics

To gauge the effectiveness of your community-building efforts, it’s crucial to track and analyze various engagement metrics. Key metrics to consider include:

• Event Attendance: Monitor the number of attendees at your events and activities. High attendance rates indicate strong interest and engagement, while lower rates may suggest the need for more appealing or better-promoted events.
• Member Participation: Track participation in different community initiatives, such as workshops, networking events, and social gatherings. Understanding which activities are most popular can help you tailor future offerings to member preferences.
• Satisfaction Rates: Regularly assess member satisfaction through feedback surveys and reviews. High satisfaction rates are indicative of a positive community experience, while lower rates highlight areas needing improvement.

Continuously Improving Based on Feedback

Feedback and metrics provide a roadmap for continuous improvement. By actively responding to member input and adapting your offerings, you can enhance the overall coworking experience.

Here’s how to approach this:

• Adapting Programs and Amenities: Use feedback to refine and evolve your programs and amenities. If members express a need for more quiet zones, for example, consider reallocating space or investing in noise-canceling solutions. Similarly, if certain types of events are consistently popular, be sure to keep them in your rotation.
• Regular Updates and Communication: Keep members informed about the changes and improvements you’re making based on their feedback. Transparency builds trust and shows that you are committed to enhancing their experience.
• Iterative Approach: Adopt an iterative approach to community building, where you continuously test new ideas, gather feedback, and make adjustments. This dynamic process ensures that your coworking space remains relevant and responsive to member needs.

Examples of Successful Community Building In Coworking Spaces

Creating a sense of community within coworking spaces requires intentional and innovative initiatives.

Here are some examples of successful community-building efforts from various coworking spaces around the world, showcasing how they have effectively fostered collaboration, networking, and support among their members.

Hera Hub

Hera Hub provides a female-focused coworking space that supports women entrepreneurs through mentorship, educational workshops, and networking events. They also have a digital repository for resources where members can find more information.

What sets Hera Hub apart is their female-focused strategy. By creating a network of like-minded professionals, they have been able to create an environment where every woman can learn, grow, and share their insights.

One member said:

Hera Hub is so much more than a coworking space, it’s a thriving ecosystem of amazing entrepreneurs who are dedicated to seeing each other succeed.

One of the biggest draws to Hera Hub is their “GURU” program. This program is made up of “subject matter experts who donate their time to meet one-on-one with local entrepreneurs (members and non-members welcome) to answer questions they may have on a variety of topics related to their field.”

This is an excellent opportunity for members to interact with other members, as well as for non-members to see the benefits of becoming a member.

By creating a space tailored to the needs of women entrepreneurs, Hera Hub has built a strong, supportive community where members can thrive personally and professionally.

NextSpace/Pacific Workplaces

Pacific Workplaces, what was previously known as NextSpace, prides itself on hosting community-forward events for their members.

An organization generally focused on serving and building their community, PAC believes events are “the foundation to community building.”

While Lunch and Learns, workshops, and topic-specific programming are all common events you will find in their lineup, PAC also hosts “fun weekly member events.”

The West Coast coworking organization coined the term, “The NextSpace Effect™” explaining, “In every NextSpace, members get to know each other: They sit next to one another. They talk and connect. And something new and amazing happens.”

Black Tech Saturdays

Black Tech Saturdays is a dynamic initiative dedicated to empowering Black technologists by fostering a strong, supportive community. They organize regular meetups and events aimed at providing networking opportunities, skill development, and mentorship for Black professionals in the tech industry.

With a focus on equity, diversity, impact, and collaboration, Black Tech Saturdays create a space where members can share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and support each other’s career growth.

Though this is not a physical coworking space, Black Tech Saturdays is a wonderful example of the types of events industry professionals are after; a renowned event committed to serving a specific community.

An event like this not only promotes diversity and inclusion, but also creates a blueprint for other organizations to follow in supporting their workforce and individual communities.

Conclusion

Needless to say, a strong community is the cornerstone of successful coworking spaces. It transforms them from mere physical locations into vibrant ecosystems where individuals and businesses thrive.

Members who feel connected and supported are more likely to stay longer, contribute actively, and recommend the space to others, driving growth and success.

We encourage you to implement these tips and insights to foster a thriving coworking community. By prioritizing community building, you can create a space where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth flourish, ensuring long-term success and satisfaction for all members.

Start today and watch your coworking community transform into a dynamic and supportive environment that propels everyone forward.