As the numbers of those who work out of coworking spaces has broken the one million mark, according to the 2017 Global Coworking Survey, it’s clear that this somewhat nomadic work lifestyle is here to stay. As we’ve discussed in this space previously, they’re extremely popular with startups and millennials in general, and are likely to save you a significant amount of money. But have you considered that, in addition to all of these benefits, coworking might just give your marketing efforts the boost you’ve been needing? Here are some of the ways that coworking can give you a much needed marketing edge.
Networking You Can Relate To
“Old school” sales and marketing professionals have always tended to rely heavily on networking groups and events, rubbing elbows with colleagues, competitors, and potential business associates whenever possible. If you’re a modern digital freelancer or remote worker, that sort of effort may not be your thing, and we understand that. Even if you don’t mind showing up at those quarterly meetings, donning your name tag and passing out business cards, there’s typically not too much opportunity to do so when you’re working out of your home.
In a coworking space, however, the networking opportunities are right there in front of you, every day. Your “neighbors” are all possible new clients or collaborators. And it’s a much more relaxed, low-pressure sort of networking, as the interactions are friendlier and more natural.
Instant Audience
As a cutting-edge professional, I’m sure you’re already aware of the value of social media marketing for building brand identity and putting out news and information. Even with the best of intentions, the best products or services, and some top-shelf content to put out there, it can be a challenge to acquire the first round of followers or subscribers. When you’re in a coworking space, however, you’ve already got a whole virtual neighborhood of potential fans and followers. Since you interact with them every day, you can expect that they’ll be interested in your success, much more than cold contacts would be. Do you print branded marketing goodies like pads, pens, etc., with your logo on them? If so, you’ll have a ready-made group of people upon whose desks you can deliver those items, ready to be viewed by their colleagues and contacts.
A Great Source For Marketing Content
As much as I’m sure you understand the importance of content marketing, it’s not always easy to come up with material with which to fill your blogs. A coworking space, with its constant buzz of activities and productivity, can actually become an almost infinite source of inspiration for your marketing content. The story you just heard at the coffee bar could be a cool subject for next week’s blog. Perhaps one of your coworking neighbors might even want to be a contributor to your blog.