Coworking is new style of working because it blends the flexibility of working from home with the social and professional benefits of being in a vibrant office. Designers, writers, app developers, and remote workers rotate in and out desks, share tid-bits of information and pass around blog posts. The people make the space alive and the coworking style of flexibility and community-driven make working exciting. The vibrancy and excitement of coworking is created by people being involved and making the space their.
So how do new coworkers get the most out of their new space and the community?
Come on in. Everyone is really nice.
On your first day, and probably the first few visits, it’s always a good idea to introduce yourself, be open to some conversation and be willing to butt-in when you have some special insight on a topic. The community manager at the coworking facility, which is Craig at Creative Density, will help introduce you and start a conversation to make you feel comfortable and prevent awkward silence between strangers huddled behind laptops (everyone is nice and probably that wouldn’t happen).
Share. Everyone doesn’t know everything.
One of the best things about coworking is that there is a group of smart people around to help answer quick questions. If you can’t find a WordPress plug-in, need a beta-tester for an app, want someone to look over some copy than you can probably turn around and ask someone for 10 minutes of their time. Coworking is a community of people with diverse talents that believe we can all nudge each other forward together.
Participate and Host. Everyone has a voice.
Creative Density and many other coworking spaces open their doors for members to host events and to participate. By joining a coworking community means you have a voice in certain events and activities in the space. If there are great events going on that interest you, make sure to go and participate. If you want a hack-a-thon, a show and tell, or a night of group writing than suggest it to the community manager. Coworking spaces are always looking for new ways to let members make the space their own.
The events going on during and after hours are great for getting to know your coworkers since work is not the main focus. You’ll learn about new ideas and skills from your coworkers that may not come up in normal conversation and find new way to collaborate together. Plus, many coworkers love beer and toasting together at an event seems to always bring bring together.
If you are a Creative Density member than talk to Craig about events that may interest you. He’ll work with you to get it going.
Give high-fives! Everyone likes them.
Fact. Do it.
Now you are all set to get the most of coworking. It’s an exciting new way to work and discover the talented people in your neighborhood. Enjoy.
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