A coworking space is more than just a place to work. It is a place where you can meet new people, make friends, and find new job or business chances. Whether you work alone, have a small business, or are part of a team, talking to others can help you learn, grow, and feel less lonely. Building meaningful connections in a coworking space isn’t as difficult as it may seem.
While many people work from home, it can start to feel isolating over time. A coworking space provides an opportunity to work alongside others, even if you’re not part of the same company. This sense of community can make your workday more enjoyable and fulfilling.
So, how can you start building real connections in a coworking space? Here are a few simple ways to get started.
1. How to Make Connections in a Coworking Space: Say Hello and Be Friendly
The easiest way to start talking to someone is by saying hello. A simple “Good morning” or “How is your day going?” can open the door to a nice chat.
When you see someone often in the coworking space, it’s good to smile and greet them. Over time, these small chats can turn into longer talks and even friendships.
2. Use Common Areas to Talk
Most coworking spaces have shared areas like a kitchen, lounge, or coffee corner. These are great places to start conversations. When making coffee or having a snack, take a moment to talk to the person next to you. You can ask, “Do you come here often?” or “What kind of work do you do?” Simple questions can lead to interesting discussions.
If you always sit alone at your desk, it is harder to meet people. Try sitting in a shared area sometimes. This makes it easier for others to talk to you, and you can meet more people naturally.
3. How to Make Connections in a Coworking Space: Join Events and Activities
Many coworking spaces organize events like workshops, networking meetings, or casual get-togethers. These are great chances to meet people in a relaxed setting. Even if you are shy, try to go to an event. People at coworking spaces are usually friendly and open to meeting others.
If your coworking space has a lunch event, join in! Eating together is one of the best ways to get to know people. You can talk about work, hobbies, or anything else.
4. How to Make Connections in a Coworking Space: Offer Help and Ask for Help
If you see someone struggling with something, offer to help. Maybe they need advice on a project, help with technology, or just a second opinion.
At the same time, if you need help with something, don’t be afraid to ask. People like to share what they know, and this can start a good conversation. Helping each other is one of the best ways to build trust and friendships.
5. Work in Different Areas
Instead of sitting in the same spot every day, try working in different places inside the coworking space. Some days, sit in an open area. Other days, work near the coffee machine or in a lounge space.
This helps you see and meet different people, and it also makes it easier for others to talk to you. If you always sit in a private room, it is harder to start conversations with others.
6. Join Online Groups and Chats is a Great Way to Make Connections in a Coworking Space
Many coworking spaces have WhatsApp groups, Facebook groups, or online forums. These are great ways to stay connected with people outside of work hours. You can share ideas, ask for advice, or just chat with others.
If your coworking space has a group chat, don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and say hello. This helps people remember you when they see you in person.
7. Respect Personal Space and Time
It is important to be friendly, but also to respect when people are busy. If someone is wearing headphones, typing quickly, or looks deep in thought, they might not want to talk at that moment.
A good time to start a conversation is during a coffee break, lunch, or when they are not busy with work. If someone seems open to talking, that is the best time to chat.
8. Find People With Similar Interests
When you meet someone new, ask about their work and hobbies. You might find that you have things in common. Maybe you both like the same type of music, play the same sport, or enjoy the same books.
When you find people with similar interests, it is easier to build a real connection. You can invite them to lunch, a coffee break, or even an activity outside of work.
9. Work on Projects Together
Coworking spaces bring together people with different skills. If you meet someone who has skills that match yours, you can work together on a project.
For example, if you are a writer and you meet a designer, you can help each other with projects. Working together makes connections stronger and can lead to great work opportunities.
10. Keep in Touch
After meeting someone, stay connected. Add them on LinkedIn, send a message, or invite them for coffee again. Even if you do not work together every day, keeping in touch helps friendships grow.
If you meet someone interesting, ask them to have lunch or a coffee break the next day. Over time, small chats turn into real friendships.
11. Be Yourself
The best way to make good connections is to be yourself. People like honest and real conversations. You don’t have to force connections—just be open to meeting new people, and friendships will happen naturally.
Final Thoughts
Making friends and work connections in a coworking space is easy if you are open and friendly. The more you talk to people, the more comfortable you will feel.
Start with small steps:
- Say hello and smile.
- Take coffee breaks in common areas.
- Join coworking events.
- Offer help and ask for help.
- Keep in touch with people you meet.
Coworking spaces are great places to connect with others, share ideas, and find new work opportunities. A simple hello can lead to great friendships and even future job chances. So, take a step today and start meeting people in your coworking space!