The Social Side of Coworking: Building Connections in Shared Spaces

The number of people using coworking spaces worldwide is predicted to double between 2021 and 2024, reaching five million people.

This remarkable growth is partly because coworking spaces make practical sense. They can be much more cost-effective than a traditional office. They accommodate all kinds of flexible work schedules. They’re welcoming, with appealing facilities and services.

But even more important than design and functionality are the networking and collaboration opportunities they offer. These shared spaces are points of contact for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and freelancers from different industries, professions, and locations. They are places to make connections and form relationships, to advance businesses and careers.

Let’s take a closer look at how coworking spaces can make a big difference – and some tips to help you take full advantage of their opportunities for socializing.

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Enjoy your job more

Only 50% of people in a 2023 Gallup survey said they were completely satisfied with their job. It may be even harder for those working from home or remotely, with many experiencing loneliness, long hours, and a sedentary lifestyle.

It’s no secret that finding social opportunities is a bridge to being happier at work. Discovering and developing positive relationships can improve your mental health and give you a more balanced perspective.

Coworking spaces are full of ways to socialize with all kinds of people. You can develop rewarding relationships with regular visitors, while getting to meet new people each day.

Don’t be lonely

People working long hours away from home are at risk of social isolation. Losing the habit of interacting with people regularly is associated with increased anxiety and depression. Research also shows this type of lifestyle makes you more vulnerable to serious health conditions like coronary heart disease, stroke, and dementia.

Coworking spaces require you to leave the house. They launch you into a social setting that you don’t get at home or working from a hotel. You’re in constant contact with other people, which significantly reduces how socially isolated you are.

Connect with your kind of people

One of the best things you can do for your career or business is connect with like-minded professionals. The team and support system you build around yourself is as important to your development as the hard work you put in.

Coworking spaces are bursting with networking opportunities. Even when you’re just passing the time of day, you’re making connections. Piece by piece you’re building a supportive community around you that can offer advice, resources, and a shoulder to lean on when times get tough. The result is a boost to your overall well-being and productivity.

Discover potential job opportunities and partnerships

We all know from experience how business connections can lead to job and partnership opportunities. This is just as true in the coworking environment.

As you build relationships with fellow members and their businesses, you’ll learn about career openings and partnership opportunities in their sectors.

Besides enabling this organic process, many coworking spaces also host events for members, many of which are specifically designed for networking.

Become more creative and innovative

You know what it’s like: you think you’ve had a brilliant idea, but how can you be sure? What you really need is a fresh set of eyes on that visual you just created, or someone to read that proposal to check it’s compelling. It can be hard to get this kind of support when you’re a remote worker.

In a coworking space, however, you have easy access to people who are happy to provide feedback and brainstorm with you. Now you can let your creativity and innovation flourish.

Connect directly with your teammates

On some remote teams, people are based in a different state or country. Others include workers who live relatively close to each other. A coworking space gives you the option to connect with your teammates in real life.

If you’re a business owner, you can schedule workers to meet one or two days a week at a local coworking space. If you’re a coworking employee, you can let your fellow team members know when you’ll be at a particular coworking space and encourage them to meet you there. By working and connecting with each other in person, you’ll strengthen your remote working relationship – and your collective performance.

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Top tips for building a network

The social side of coworking can be just as beneficial as the practical side. But initiating and building connections with people you don’t know can be intimidating.

That’s why we’ve gathered some practical tips for making relationship-building and networking in shared spaces less scary.

Starting a conversation

It’s all very well working alongside other people, but how do you actually make those valuable connections? If you hang back until other people approach you, you may be waiting a long time. Many people are reluctant to initiate a conversation with someone they don’t know — maybe because they’re nervous, afraid of being judged, or just being reluctant to get into a conversation.

So, if you really want to build connections in a coworking space, you’re going to need some simple ways to get the ball rolling. You could start by just saying “hello” and asking how someone is doing. Or get creative by leaving your charger at home so you have to ask someone to use theirs. Or compliment someone’s work and ask a couple of questions about it.

If you’re naturally uncomfortable in this kind of situation, set a goal to start one conversation a day. You’ll soon be on your way to building lasting connections in your coworking space.

Attend events

As well as events hosted by the coworking space, members often put on events that are open to the public. These almost guarantee human interaction, whether you start the conversations or not.

Take full advantage of them to ease the pressure of getting to know people in shared spaces. The idea of meeting people at events can be nerve-racking, but you’ll be surprised at how fun these occasions can be and how easily you learn to mix and mingle.

You may find you feel more comfortable if you bring a friend. But don’t hide behind them – use them as a springboard and get out there!

Best of both worlds

Most people go to coworking spaces to get their own work done. However, by stepping outside this comfort zone and using them as social opportunities too, you can find exciting new ways to grow your business and your career.

Key Takeaway

Coworking spaces aren’t just about desks and Wi-Fi — they’re about people. Social opportunities in shared spaces boost mental health, reduce isolation, spark creativity, and can lead to real networking, partnerships, and career growth. Step into the community, connect, and make the most of your coworking experience.