The business networking blueprint — how to build meaningful connections that grow your business

Mention networking to most professionals and they will picture a stuffy conference room, a forced handshake and a business card they will inevitably misplace. Traditional networking often feels like a chore – a transactional exchange where everyone is trying to sell something. It’s no wonder so many people dread it.

Coworking spaces offer an entirely different approach. When you work alongside people daily, professional connections happen naturally. A casual chat at the coffee machine can turn into a collaboration. A shared frustration about the state of the world might lead to a partnership. Instead of forced interactions, networking becomes an ongoing, organic process.

It is the kind of environment that has sparked some of the biggest success stories in tech. Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger worked on the first version of Instagram while at a coworking space in San Francisco. And, Uber’s early team, including founders Travis Kalanick and Garrett Camp set up shop in another coworking hub that played an important role in the company’s growth.

So, what is it and what are the benefits of networking for business? Rather than thinking about your own career advancement, collecting the most LinkedIn connections or handing out as many business cards as possible, you should be trying to form meaningful relationships that provide value over time. The best networking is never forced. Instead, it’s built on shared interests, mutual respect and a bit of serendipity – all of which coworking spaces naturally encourage.

If you’re not sold on business networking just yet, here are a few reasons you should be doing it:

• 70% of job opportunities aren’t publicly advertised with 80% filled by personal or professional contacts.
• Networking presents new opportunities for business owners 7/10 times.
• 80% of people say networking has been essential to their career success.

How coworking spaces foster human connection

Traditional business networking events rarely lead to meaningful professional relationships. You shake a few hands, exchange LinkedIn connections, and then… nothing. Small talk about the weather and what you do for work rarely leads to collaboration. It’s all very surface-level, and let’s be honest, it often feels like a chore.

Coworking spaces flip this on its head. Instead of forcing interactions in an artificial setting, you are surrounded by people doing their actual work. The person making coffee next to you might be a designer who can help with your branding. The person sitting across from you could introduce you to your next big client. These conversations aren’t forced – they happen because you are in the same space, working on real things, day after day.

Think about it: when was the last time you built a strong professional relationship over a cold email or a five-minute chat at an industry networking event? Compare that to working near someone for weeks or months. The familiarity, the natural conversations, the shared struggles – that is how genuine business connections are made.

Basically, more people are choosing coworking spaces because networking isn’t something you have to schedule. It happens naturally, without feeling like a sales pitch. No need to force it – just show up, do your thing and let connections develop naturally.

 

Overcoming networking anxiety as a professional

Not everyone finds networking easy, and that’s hardly surprising when 25% – 40% of us are estimated to be introverts. If the idea of approaching strangers makes you sweat, you aren’t alone. Imposter syndrome, social anxiety and fear of rejection stop many professionals from putting themselves out there.

If this sounds familiar, you might consider something a bit more organic and much less forced. Coworking spaces take some of the pressure off. Instead of walking into a formal business networking event where you feel expected to perform, you are entering a shared workspace where conversations happen in a low-pressure setting. You aren’t  ‘networking’ in the traditional sense; you are just working alongside people, and the conversations that arise feel natural rather than transactional.

If you are naturally introverted, simply being present, contributing to discussions and engaging in group activities can ease you into networking without feeling forced. The best connections often come from shared experiences, not rehearsed pitches.

How to start business networking in a coworking space

Once you get past the initial nerves, the next step is making networking work for you. In a coworking space, this doesn’t have to mean handing out business cards or delivering rehearsed pitches. It happens naturally when you make the effort to engage with the people around you. 

If you go in all guns blazing, trying to sell your products or services, you’ll quickly get a reputation for being out for yourself and become a divisive character. On the other hand, if you sit in a dark corner, never speak to anyone, and rarely look up from your screen, you’ll probably give off don’t come near me vibes.

It’s a balancing act, but follow these simple networking tips and you’ll do just fine.

1. Being respectful

Nobody enjoys feeling like a target for a sales pitch. Treat people as colleagues, not networking opportunities. A simple ‘good morning’ or a comment about the workspace can lead to a conversation. Pay attention to cues – some people are open to chatting, others are deep in work. Respecting that makes interactions more natural.

2. Setting clear intentions

Think about what you want from networking and try out different networking strategies. Are you looking for clients, investment opportunities, corporate partnerships or just a strong professional support system? Having a clear focus makes it easier to connect with the right people and have meaningful conversations rather than surface-level small talk.

3. Engaging genuinely with others in the coworking space

Networking in a coworking space isn’t about working the room. Instead, you’re looking for real conversations with real people. In a coworking space, people are less about getting the sale and growing their network. You have to show interest in what others do, ask good questions and avoid making everything about yourself. People remember those who listen more than those who dominate the conversation.

4. Getting involved in coworking events and community gatherings

Coworking spaces run events for a reason – they are great for meeting new people without the pressure of cold introductions. Whether it’s a workshop, panel discussion or social, use these as a chance to connect. But you have to make the most of the opportunity. Standing on the edge of the room hoping no one talks to you won’t help with expanding your network. 

If you aren’t sure what to say. Start with something simple – ‘Have you been to one of these before?’ or ‘What did you think of the speaker?’. These are easy ways to break the ice without the conversation feeling forced or overwhelming who you are talking to.

5. Offering value before asking for anything

Networking works best when you focus on building genuine connections rather than immediate gains.

If someone is looking for recommendations, share insights from your own experience. If you have connections who could benefit from meeting, introduce them. Small, thoughtful gestures create a sense of goodwill and make others more likely to engage with you in return.

When you approach networking with a mindset of mutual support rather than transaction, relationships develop more naturally and people are more likely to help you out when you need it too.

6. Following up consistently

A good chat is just the beginning. Following up is what turns a one-off interaction into a lasting relationship. A quick LinkedIn message, grabbing a coffee or checking in after an event keeps the connection going.

Networking isn’t something you tick off a to-do list. The more you engage with your coworking community, the more valuable connections you’ll form. Make it part of your work routine and watch the opportunities unfold.

FAQs about professional networking

How do I build strong connections?

Strong connections come from genuine interactions. Engage with people consistently, show interest in what they do and offer support where you can. The best relationships are built over time, not through a single interaction.

How can I genuinely connect with people?

Listen more than you talk. Ask thoughtful questions, find common ground and be authentic in your interactions. People appreciate sincerity over rehearsed pitches.

Why am I scared to make connections?

Fear of rejection, imposter syndrome or social anxiety can make networking intimidating. Start small – engage in low-pressure settings like coworking spaces or online communities and focus on building relationships rather than ‘networking’ in the traditional sense.

How do I network if I am an introvert?

Leverage smaller, structured interactions over large industry events. Engage in one-on-one conversations, participate in group discussions or contribute to online networking spaces. Introverts often thrive in deeper, more meaningful connections rather than surface-level interactions.

When should I start networking?

As soon as possible. Building a network takes time, so don’t wait until you need something. Start engaging with professionals in your industry early, even if you aren’t actively looking for opportunities.

How can I create a business network?

Attend industry events, join coworking spaces, participate in online communities and connect with people in your field. Building a strong network requires consistent effort and genuine engagement. In a similar way to friendships, it isn’t going to work if you meet someone once and never talk to them again.

How should I mingle with business people?

Approach conversations with curiosity rather than an agenda. Find shared interests, keep the conversation light and ask open-ended questions to keep discussions flowing. People appreciate natural, engaging interactions over forced networking.

Making a habit of business networking

The best networkers aren’t necessarily the loudest or most outgoing; they are the ones who take the time to nurture relationships.

Coworking spaces make this easier by providing a built-in workplace community. Whether it’s through daily interactions, organised events or casual coffee chats, there are countless opportunities to grow your network naturally.

If you haven’t already, take a look at coworking memberships and event spaces near you, like Spacemade. The right environment makes career networking feel effortless – and who knows? Your next big opportunity might be sitting at the Spacemade hot desk next to you or you could find a kindred spirit and business partner at one of our upcoming free events.