The beauty of coworking is how it brings bright, creative, entrepreneurial people together into a collaborative work environment. This is a new concept to many, and truly understanding the inner workings of the coworking environment can be a dizzying task. If you come from a traditional office, or have spent time telecommuting, you probably feel a bit intimidated by the idea of coworking. More than likely you have spent most of your time keeping to yourself and minding your own business. Although it may take a transition period to break this cycle, it can be an extremely positive experience!
Here at Launch Workplaces we believe our members have it down! They collaborate, socialize, and are fearlessly confident in everything they do. For those of you who are new at this whole coworking thing, don’t feel intimidated! In fact, being a coworking pro is as easy as incorporating 5 behaviors into your workday. Simply put them to use, and we promise you’ll fit right in!
1. Break the Ice
Step one is getting out of your comfort zone. By putting yourself out there and striking up conversation with anyone and everyone in a coworking environment, you’re bound to make at least one, if not multiple, valuable connections in the office. Thankfully, this won’t feel particularly unnatural, since it is the point of coworking. If you’re coming from a traditional office background this may take some getting used to, but you will soon realize how every member is there for the same reason as you.
2. Collaborate
Once you break the ice, it’s time to collaborate! This is where possibilities are endless and you can really make strides in your career. Think of it this way, in a coworking space you’re surrounded by freelancers, entrepreneurs, and experienced business owners, all navigating the workforce in a unique way. At any given time you have the opportunity to learn from one another, collaborate, and create.
3. Switch it up
As humans, it’s easy to fall into a routine that you feel comfortable with every day. This means you walk into the office, head into the same break room, and then sit down in the same area. This is a sure fire way to never meet new members. Switch it up by changing your work area every so often. If this means not getting your favorite window seat everyday, then so be it. You’re likely to meet some great people if you simply move around the building!
4. Help others
If you follow the three previous steps, then you’re already over halfway to being a coworking pro. By helping others feel comfortable, you can get the most out of your experience in a coworking environment. Even if you don’t feel 100% adapted to the social environment of a coworking space, you can help someone else feel that much more at ease. Initiate conversation and offer any help that you can, they’ll appreciate it.
5. Invite others
Want to be a true coworking pro? Share your expertise with others. That means encouraging every friend you have that is feeling uninspired in their current work environment to take the coworking community. The more the merrier!
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