Coworking spaces are flexible working environments for professionals. These spaces provide a good work-life balance and boost work productivity.
Coworking spaces provide a safe for a diverse community of professionals to grow with others. Moreover, it is a space for anyone looking to build connections and spend time and effort on professional networking. So, how do you network in coworking spaces?
Read on to discover how coworking in Manila can help your career growth. We’ll also share basic tips for building connections in coworking spaces.
The Advantages of Networking in Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces can improve your productivity. They also inspire collaboration among its members. Moreover, they introduce people to a diverse community of professionals looking to connect and grow with others.
Here are other advantages of networking while coworking in Manila.
Community of Like-minded Professionals
You will meet professionals from different industries in coworking spaces who also value collaboration and are open to working with others to help each other grow.
Moreover, this community has different skill sets and experiences that will help you gain new insights and strategies in other fields.
Events and Workshops
Coworking spaces host events and workshops to help community members in building connections. These gatherings are great opportunities for starting relationships with professionals outside your industry. You can also improve in these events and find other connections to help you grow your skills.
Enhanced Productivity and Creativity
People need to constantly engage with new people to find new perspectives. That is why networking in coworking spaces helps you find innovative ideas and solutions.
You will also be inspired to work better when you connect with the right people in coworking spaces. Furthermore, the right connections can help you find opportunities to help you with your career path.
Essential Tips for Building Connections in Coworking Spaces
Anyone can build connections in coworking spaces with hard work and determination. Thus, you must proactively find and engage with like-minded professionals who can inspire and motivate you.
Here are essential tips for forging valuable connections while coworking in Manila.
1. Initiate Conversations
The first method is to take the first step and initiate conversations. Break the ice with a simple hello and introduction. Being afraid to take this first step will not help you in building connections. So, smile, approach a fellow worker, and say hi.
2. Be Authentic
While the final goal is to expand your professional networking, you shouldn’t be so upfront about it. Instead, prioritize meeting new people. Express genuine interest in their work, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences. Authentic connections are more likely to become professional connections than solely focusing on making business connections.
3. Utilize Social Spaces
Most coworking spaces have social spaces like the pantry and the lounge where people can relax and unwind during the workday. Use them as opportunities for initiating conversations with others. Share a table and chat over meals to get to know them.
4. Engage in Events
Coworking spaces sometimes host networking and skill-building workshops for members. Use these events as opportunities to connect. Making friends during these events could also be easier as people are less focused on work.
5. Collaborate and Share Knowledge
Your connections with others should be mutually beneficial. People you meet in coworking spaces should also learn something from you. Hence, it is important to also share your knowledge with them. Moreover, be open to collaborations that can help both of you grow.
6. Identify and Connect with Key Professionals
It is helpful to connect with many people. However, finding the right people to help your career growth is equally important. Find individuals who can provide opportunities for growth in your chosen field. You can find them when you get to know the people around you, so authentic connections are important when networking.
7. Stay Proactive
Building a professional network while coworking in Manila takes time and dedication. You can’t just start a conversation one day and then never catch up. You must stay proactive by attending events regularly, continuously reaching out to new acquaintances, and following up on connections you’ve already made.
8. Craft an Effective Elevator Pitch
It is also helpful to summarize who you are when first trying to connect with others. Evaluate yourself and list your special skills and interests so you can introduce yourself more effectively. You can practice this elevator pitch before work to learn to talk more confidently.
9. Balance Socializing and Work
Although networking in coworking spaces is important, learn how to balance socializing and working. People in these spaces are busy, too, so you should respect their space and time. Take the initiative to start a conversation without overstepping boundaries and distracting other professionals.
Networking in coworking spaces is a worthwhile endeavor that takes effort, time, and dedication. Use these tips to grow your professional network and learn valuable skills to help your career growth.
Ready to expand your network in a coworking space? Be mindful of Proper Coworking Space Etiquette for Success in Shared Workspaces.
Build Your Professional Network at M Spaces
Coworking spaces allow a diverse community of professionals to inspire, teach new skills, and help others in their career path. You can also be part of this community if you take the first step to spark a conversation with others to build mutually beneficial relationships.
Find a supportive community of professionals while coworking in Manila at M Spaces, where you can comfortably collaborate with your new network. We offer ergonomic coworking spaces with access to high-speed internet and a pantry.
You can choose from three different meeting room sizes:
• small meeting rooms (up to 6 persons)
• large meeting rooms(up to 10 persons)
• conference rooms (up to 22 persons)
Learn more about our serviced workspaces and other business services on Facebook and Instagram. You can also email us at info@mspacesph.com or contact us for our rates and service inquiries.
