Co-Working for Introverts

Question: Are you an extrovert? Do you like to meet new people? Do you genuinely never meet a stranger? If yes, then this post might not be for you. 

If, however, you sometimes struggle in new situations, or when surrounded by strangers, then read on for some tips and strategies for networking in a co-working office, because honey, it’s darn near impossible to spend any time in a co-working setting WITHOUT making new friends!

While every co-working setup is different and unique, in most, you will find yourself in such close proximity to others that you will find yourself in conversation with them in one of three ways: 

1. It will become awkward not to speak

1. Someone will introduce you because they think you will have something in common

-or-

1. You’ll over hear them talking about something you are interested in or know a lot about

We’ve had all three happen in our co-working space in the last hour alone, and it’s wonderful when someone passes the front desk and says “That was a great conversation.” 

First, there will absolutely be times when you find yourself standing wordlessly next to someone. Maybe you’re waiting for the coffee machine. It might be you’re both at the printer. Either way, be the first one to speak. You’ll save the both of you from the awkwardness.

Next, there is always someone in the building who was the first person you met. This person likely knows a few things about you. They probably also know people in the building that you don’t. It’s more than likely that one day, you’ll find yourselves in one of the main areas of the space, and your team-mate will spontaneously introduce you to someone you have something in common with. Trust us on this - just go with it. It’s the easiest way to meet new people and make new friends. 

Lastly, if you’re in one of the open areas, and you overhear someone talking about something or someone you know, next time you get a chance, say something. Because there’s nothing like that “I’m not the only one” feeling!

We’ve seen countless friendships start, and more business opportunities happen, in the common areas of our co-working facilities. Yes, it’s hard to be the first to speak in a new situation, but the more you do it, the easier it gets. Try it next time you’re milling about in the

kitchen waiting for your coffee, or standing at the printer waiting for the last page of your doc to print. If it’s in our co-working office, we can darn near promise nothing bad will happen!