Let’s be honest—networking can sometimes feel awkward. You’re trying to strike up a conversation without sounding forced, and the last thing you want is that stiff “networking event” vibe. But the beauty of coworking spaces like Thrive is that it doesn’t have to be like that. The opportunities to connect are baked right in, and with a few intentional moves, you can genuinely build relationships that fuel your growth.
Here are some simple, human ways to make networking feel less like a chore and more like building your own little community.
1. Be Visible—Grab That Coffee, Smile, and Start Small Talk
No one can get to know you if they never see you. So, make it a point to hang out in the shared spaces. Spend time in the kitchen or the lounge area; you’d be amazed at how far a smile and a “How’s your day going?” can go. Just being there and looking approachable can be the start of something great. You never know, a quick comment about the coffee machine might lead to collaborating on a project next month.
2. Show Up to Community Events (Even If You’re Not Sure What to Expect)
Okay, we get it—sometimes the idea of attending a community event feels exhausting, especially if it’s been a long week. But these events are golden opportunities to connect with other members, and they’re set up to make those connections super easy. Even if the topic isn’t directly related to your field, you might click with someone over a shared sense of humor or interest. Plus, they’re usually pretty fun, so why not just show up? Check out our events page here!
3. Hang Out in Common Areas (AKA the Best Networking Zones)
The coworking lounge or kitchen is prime territory for making connections. These common areas are where a lot of the magic happens. Take your lunch there instead of eating at your desk, grab a coffee refill, or just step away from work for a bit. It’s amazing how a quick conversation over lunch can lead to learning about someone’s project, or discovering that you both need the exact same kind of freelance help.
4. Be Helpful and Generous With Your Skills
There’s nothing that helps you connect with people faster than genuinely offering to help. Whether it’s lending your expertise in marketing or helping someone solve a tech problem, showing that you’re willing to share what you know is a fantastic icebreaker. It makes you memorable, builds goodwill, and you’ll often find the favor returned later on. People remember those who helped them when they were stuck, and it makes for an easy and natural way to grow your connections.
5. Join or Start an Interest Group
Most coworking spaces have interest groups—some focused on hobbies, others on professional skills. Find a group that aligns with what you love, or if there isn’t one, why not start one yourself? Book clubs, yoga groups, or even mastermind groups can help you find people you click with. This is networking without the pressure—it’s just about connecting over shared interests, which can turn into something much bigger down the line.
6. Use Digital Spaces to Stay in the Loop
Most coworking spaces have online forums or Slack groups where members chat, share resources, or promote what they’re working on. Don’t overlook these! It’s a great way to put your name out there, help others, or ask for what you need. Whether you’re looking for a collaborator or sharing an event, being active online helps keep you on everyone’s radar, even if you’re not physically in the space every day.
7. Take the Leap—Suggest One-on-One Coffees
Once you hit it off with someone, take the extra step. Ask them to grab coffee, maybe even outside of the coworking space. These one-on-one chats can really take your relationships deeper, letting you learn more about what they’re working on, their goals, and where you might be able to support one another. Think of it as a coffee date, but for professional growth—and who knows, maybe for a great friendship, too.
8. Switch Up Your Seat (Hot Desking Is Your Friend)
If you’re always sitting in the same spot, you’ll probably always see the same people. Try changing up your seat once in a while and practice “hot desking.” It’s a super easy way to meet new folks in the space—you never know who you’ll end up sitting next to and how that casual chat could end up becoming your next big project.
9. Be the Connector for Others
It’s not just about who you meet—sometimes, the best networking move is connecting two other people. If you meet someone and immediately think, “Oh, they’d totally click with that other person I just spoke to,” go ahead and introduce them. Playing matchmaker in the professional world not only helps them out, but also builds your reputation as a key connector, someone who’s genuinely interested in helping others grow.
10. Don’t Forget to Follow Up
You meet someone, you have a great conversation… and then it stops there. Don’t let it! Send a quick follow-up message after meeting someone—whether that’s a note on LinkedIn, a casual email, or even just a quick hello the next time you see them. These small efforts are what transform first meetings into meaningful relationships. Keep those conversations going, share an interesting article, or just check in every once in a while.
Coworking spaces like Thrive are built around the idea of community, and the more you put yourself out there, the more you’ll get back. Networking isn’t just something you do at an event—it’s about making the most of every little opportunity to connect, grow, and contribute.
So, go grab that coffee, say hi to the person at the table next to you, and show up to the next community event. You might just meet someone who inspires you, supports your goals, or becomes a collaborator on your next big project.
Happy connecting!
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