At FWS, we manage multiple coworking locations across the US, and community building is a top priority for us. We understand that creating a vibrant, engaged community is essential to the success and growth of any coworking space. Over time, we have developed and refined effective strategies that help foster connection, collaboration, and a strong sense of belonging among our members. Here are some of the key approaches we use to build thriving communities in our coworking spaces.
Hosting Engaging Community Events
One of the most powerful ways we foster a strong community is by hosting regular events that bring members together. These range from casual social gatherings like happy hours and coffee meetups to skill-building workshops and networking mixers. These events create natural opportunities for members to connect, share ideas, and collaborate on projects.
When planning events, we focus on diversity and relevance to our members’ interests and industries. We encourage participation by inviting members to suggest event topics or even lead sessions, which increases engagement and strengthens their sense of ownership and belonging.
Leveraging Social Media Collaborations
To extend community engagement beyond the physical space, we collaborate with members on social media to create and share content that spotlights community stories, member achievements, and upcoming events. Platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook help amplify our community’s presence and attract new members.
These digital spaces complement in-person interactions and keep the community connected around the clock.
The Importance of a Strong Community Manager and Team
At the heart of our community building efforts is a dedicated community manager and support team. This team acts as the connector, facilitator, and advocate for our members. They play a crucial role in welcoming new members, facilitating introductions, and encouraging collaboration.
Our community managers identify members’ needs and interests and create opportunities for meaningful interactions. They also maintain clear guidelines to foster a positive and inclusive culture, ensuring that our coworking spaces remain dynamic and supportive environments.
Facilitating Networking and Introductions
Networking is a primary reason many people choose coworking spaces. Our community team actively facilitates introductions between members with complementary skills, projects, or goals. Personalized matchmaking sparks collaborations that benefit both individuals and the wider community. Encouraging members to share their expertise and challenges openly creates a culture of trust and mutual support.
Additional Tips for Building a Thriving Community in Coworking Spaces
Create a Welcoming Onboarding Process
A structured onboarding process helps new members feel welcomed and integrated from day one. We provide welcome kits and introductions to key community members to set a positive tone and encourage early engagement.
Foster a Diverse Community
We promote diversity by attracting members from various industries, backgrounds, and cultures. A diverse community brings fresh perspectives and new ideas, leading to richer collaborations and problem solving.
Recognize and Celebrate Member Achievements
We regularly highlight member successes and milestones through newsletters, social media, and community boards. Celebrating achievements motivates individuals and creates a positive impact on the entire community.
Provide Opportunities for Members to Take Action
We empower community members by encouraging them to lead initiatives, organize events, and start interest groups. Taking action builds ownership and strengthens commitment to the community’s growth and success.
Continuously Seek Feedback and Adapt
We regularly gather feedback from community members to understand their needs and preferences. This information helps us refine our strategies and offer services that truly support our members and foster a thriving community.
Conclusion
At FWS, building and nurturing a strong community is central to our mission across all coworking locations. By hosting engaging events, leveraging social media, investing in dedicated community managers, and actively facilitating networking, we create supportive environments that empower our members and differentiate our spaces.
To discover how our team at FWS can support your community building efforts, get in touch with us today.