6 Virtual Events Coworking Spaces Can Host to Attract New Members
This article outlines six types of virtual events that coworking spaces can host—such as industry seminars, panel discussions, speed networking, hackathons, virtual launch parties, and skill-focused workshops—to attract new members, build community, and highlight the benefits of flexible workspaces.
Drawing in new members is crucial for coworking spaces to sustain growth and relevance — especially in places where flexible workspaces are a dime a dozen.
As a workspace provider, boosting your number of members will yield a more dynamic and vibrant community. New members offer fresh perspectives, diverse skill sets, and potential collaborations, enriching the overall work environment.
Moreover, a growing member base enhances the network effect, making the workspace more attractive to prospective members and establishing it as a hub for creativity, networking, and professional development.
Since competition is fierce among providers, coming up with innovative events that will draw in new faces to your spaces is key — and this can easily be done from the comfort of a meeting room! Hosting a virtual event that’s designed for prospective members is a fantastic way to show them why your workspace is worth a shot.
In this post, we will share 6 ways to leverage virtual events and grow your member base.
6 Virtual Event Ideas to Expand Your Membership
#1. Industry-Specific Seminars
Elevate your coworking community by spearheading industry-specific seminars in collaboration with subject matter experts. These virtual sessions aren’t just informative — they’re transformative.
For example, you can host a graphic design seminar that empowers members to connect with one another and share their best design tips. Then, your attendees can deep dive into the latest industry breakthroughs, gaining insights that will set them apart going forward.
By showing prospective members that your space cares about their industry and can expand their knowledge, they’ll be more interested in learning about your other offerings.
#2. Panel Discussions
Another idea is to coordinate a lively virtual panel featuring thought leaders or current members. You can dive into the hottest topics and trends shaping hybrid work, with a focus on productivity and conquering communication challenges.
The key is to make sure your virtual panel weaves a rich tapestry of opinions and insider knowledge from an intriguing group. Plus, you can make it a Q&A session! This way, attendees can walk away with practical tips and fresh perspectives that can (and should) include the value of using a flexible workspace.
#3. Speed Networking
Gear up potential members for virtual speed networking — an electrifying opportunity to turbocharge their contacts and connections. This type of event is all about swapping stories, canvassing goals, and sharing advice.
A tried and tested method that’s similar to speed dating, providers can open the virtual doors to both seasoned members and newcomers alike. You can invite the attendees to offer one insight, such as their biggest career goal for the year or their best tip for staying productive remotely. Make no room for sales pitches — just genuine connection-building and authentic conversations, which attendees will be keen to continue in-person in your workspace.
#4. Hackathons
Virtual hackathons are an unbeatable magnet for tech pros. Picture this: programmers uniting, collaborating, and diving headfirst into short-term projects, all in the spirit of friendly competition. This is the type of event that will ignite your workspace with real energy, appealing to prospective members whose passion is technology.
Show new members that your space is a conduit for meeting fellow tech enthusiasts, forging new alliances, and expanding their network. Your virtual hackathon shouldn’t only be about coding; it should also be about making connections. You can even grant the winners a free day of coworking or hot desking to guarantee these new prospects visit your workspace.
#5. Virtual Launch Parties
Another way to pump up the volume and attract new members is to celebrate the successes of your current community in style. By hosting virtual launch parties or achievement bashes, you can show prospective members that your space supports and roots for its people.
Whether it’s a groundbreaking product launch, a shiny new website, or a well-deserved award, giving props to members is what it’s all about. By showcasing the triumphs in your community, you’ll show potential members that you’re caring and supportive.
#6. Skill-Specific Workshops
A final idea to entice new members is to offer cutting-edge virtual workshops designed to level up skills and boost confidence. Join forces with industry titans to kickstart a series of virtual training sessions that explore the latest trends and techniques.
From mastering professional know-how in content strategy to honing soft skills for freelance interviews, these workshops can be tailor-made to empower potential members at every level. Not sure which skill-set to start with? Use your social media to create a poll that taps into the pulse of what your community craves to learn. This way, new members get to call the shots and partake in virtual training that will really be useful.
Wrapping Up
Hosting virtual events is the perfect tactic to attract new members to your workspace and showcase the vitality of your community. Ready to host an exciting virtual event? These 6 ideas are a sure fire means to success.
Key Takeaway
Virtual events are a powerful way to showcase your coworking space and grow your community. By offering seminars, panels, networking, hackathons, celebrations, and skill-building workshops, you invite new members to connect, learn, and experience the energy of your space — all from anywhere.
