It’s a well-known fact that coworking spaces offer plenty of opportunities to grow connections and become a part of a professional community–that’s why the number of people joining coworking spaces keeps growing.
Being in a shared workspace lets you network and connect with people you otherwise might not meet. It also gives you the opportunity to talk with other professionals and share your experience and skillset.
But it doesn’t stop there. These connections and conversations can even lead to revenue.
Do you have a business and you’re looking for new clients? Maybe you’re even looking to collaborate with someone who can support you on your next big project? There’s a good chance you’ll find them in your coworking community.
If you’re feeling unsure about how to make it happen, don’t worry. We’ve put together five ways to help you land clients and grow your business at a coworking space.
1. Pick the Right Type of Membership
If you’re joining a coworking space to land clients, there’s an important first step to take before you even sign up: think about the type of membership service that will work best for you and your style of gaining new clients.
For example, if you’re a freelancer who’s new to Tucson and you’re a little nervous about breaking the ice, you might want to start out with a coworking membership rather than a private office membership.
Here’s why…
A coworking membership puts you into the hustle and bustle of a professional community, working in communal areas with other members in a way that you might not get with a private office. This makes it easier to chit-chat, meet people, and quickly build relationships with the people around you. This is a great way to get your foot in the door for potential work or collaboration.
On the other hand, if you’re more talkative and feel confident putting yourself out into the community but you need a private workspace to get work done, a part-time private office or full-time private office might make for a great productivity zone.
That way, you can be a part of the community when it’s right for you and head back to your private workspace when you need to meet a deadline or get some hyper-focusing done.
2. Do Some Prep Work
We’ve all been there: there’s a perfect opportunity to talk about your business but you just can’t find the right words or the perfect time to make that segue.
Sometimes it can be nerve-wracking to approach another coworking member and strike up a conversation. But the reality is that most members are open to talk while they’re grabbing a coffee, sitting in a communal area, or attending a social event.
To ease any worries you might have, prepare a few introductions ahead of time. Think about your elevator pitch. Approach it like you’re talking to somebody who knows nothing about what you do.
On the other hand, you can get proactive. When grabbing a cup of coffee, you may want to ask a fellow member what brings them to a coworking workspace or for the best lunch spot around.
If they’re up to chat, continue the conversation and ask about their business.
Think about things like:
- Whether there might be a potential collaboration opportunity
- If you know anybody who might be a good connection for them
- Sharing your experience, such as what you do, how many years you’ve done it, and why you’re passionate about your work, and ask them the same
Just remember that, like you, they’re a busy professional. So, if they don’t have time to chat, let them know you’d love to catch up another time. There are plenty of opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration!
3. Be Approachable
While it’s essential to work hard, remember to take a few breaks – this can create organic opportunities to chat with other members who need a few minutes away from their computer screen. Taking a moment to relax also shows you’re approachable and open to conversations.
It’s also important to get to know fellow members on a social level between all the work. The more you know about them, the more you may see potential links to your business.
4. Have Some Fun!
At The Post, it isn’t all work and no play. We regularly hold Community Member Events, like our Monthly Member Luncheons, where you can meet with like-minded professionals.
Networking is one of the most successful forms of gaining new clients and boosting your business.
5. Get Immersed in the Professional Melting Pot
When you work in a coworking space, you’re going to be surrounded by solo pros, small businesses, and satellite teams spanning all different industries.
Take advantage of all the opportunities you have to meet these people, whether it’s in the cafe, out on the patio, or in a lounge area.
One of the best parts of being in a coworking space is having the opportunity to meet professionals who you normally wouldn’t meet in a traditional office environment.
Just remember to be proactive, be open, and be social. It only takes one conversation to create a connection and potentially a new client.
Want to become part of a strong professional community? Get in touch with us today.
Our team is here to answer any questions you may have. Don’t hesitate to reach out.