The power of coworking networks
Coworking spaces are a melting pot of business and talent. So, when it comes to networking, it is no surprise that they offer a huge opportunity to expand your professional circle. In fact, in a recent survey, 82% of people reported that their networks had developed significantly since joining a coworking space.
Whether you are part of a team that calls one of our private offices home, are a freelancer who is hot desking, or work for a larger company but choose to co-work, there are a few simple strategies to building connections in shared offices.
Make introductions
All good relationships start with a good introduction; professional networking is no different. Your choice of opener will undoubtedly depend on your coworking style! If you are part of a larger company moving into a private office inside a coworking space, perhaps host a coffee morning with a complimentary treat. Or, set-up for your work day in one of our shared lounges, say hello to other Clockwise members and offer them a business card so that they can begin to get to know you personally.
At Clockwise, we often host lunches, breakfasts, and events; these are great opportunities to get to know others as they provide a natural route into conversations and connections. If you are part of a team, encourage as many of your colleagues to attend as possible and introduce each other to members that you have already met. Of course, you could always opt for an email introduction with a brief explanation of your business and a little about yourself, but a personal greeting will always win out and help foster closer relationships.

Skill swap
The talent on offer in coworking spaces is limitless and getting to know who’s who in the building and gaining an understanding of the other companies sharing the space can help you to quickly resolve any business needs you may have whilst enabling you to build strong relationships.
Maybe you want to fill a new role? Or hire a specialist freelancer? Speak to the people around you or connect with the office manager to get useful contacts in-house. You can also put yourself out there by sharing your business card on a communal board, by connecting with fellow coworkers on LinkedIn and getting involved with our members’ portal. The opportunity to learn, help and advance each other’s professional networks is a two-way street with a bounty of benefits.
Attend events
Many events are hosted annually by coworking spaces and while these are a great way to get to know those in the building, you don’t have to wait for an event to come around to connect with others. One way to cement your place in a shared office is to organise your own events. These could be anything from a panel discussion about a relevant topic for your business to a quirky social event. Functions like these allow you to be a prominent and a leading voice in your coworking space; they also make people aware of who you are and what you offer.
How Clockwise can build your network
Clockwise offices are built to enrich your work life, and building your network is a huge part of that. Our comfortable lounges are an inviting space to meet like-minded professionals, and our range of smaller breakout areas provide spaces to get into more private conversations. We also host a variety of events that are the perfect place to socialise, from cocktail evenings on the terrace in Cheltenham to yoga sessions in Belfast, delicious breakfasts and cooking masterclasses in Manchester to a popular run club in Bristol, there’s so many for you to choose from.
Already a Clockwise member? Check out your local events and start connecting with other members today by utilising these networking strategies.
Not yet a Clockwise member? Contact us today and start your journey to effective working and maximising your professional network.