Episode Summary:
Holidays can feel like a weird limbo for coworking spaces.
Do you lock up, take a break, and hope for the best?
Or do you keep communicating, even if it feels like no one’s paying attention?
In this episode, Bernie and Emily dig into the realities of running a coworking space during the festive season.
They strip away assumptions and explore what works—staying open for members, scheduling clever marketing, and gearing up for the January rush without burning out.
It’s not about doing everything; it’s about doing the right things.
If you’re wondering how to strike that balance, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective and actionable ideas for the new year.
Timeline Highlights:
[0:00] – Bernie and Emily reflect on the holiday mindset for coworking spaces.
[1:50] – Should you keep your space open, and what does “open” really mean?
[2:25] – Why people pay attention over the holidays (even if it doesn’t feel like it).
[7:33] – The January membership surge—and why December marketing matters.
[10:50] – How to stay visible without exhausting your team.
[12:53] – Are holiday discounts worth it, or do they undercut your value?
[16:08] – The Coworking Community Builder Cohort: what it is and why it works.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
Should You Stay Open During the Holidays?
Bernie and Emily kick things off by addressing a classic dilemma: close the space or keep it running.
They discuss how “staying open” doesn’t have to mean full-service operations.
For many members, just knowing they can access the space—even if it’s “unpersoned”—is enough. It’s about creating clarity and maintaining trust with your community.
Why Marketing in December Isn’t a Waste of Time
The holidays often get written off as a dead zone for communication.
Bernie calls this out as a myth. With less competition online, your posts and emails have a better chance of cutting through.
Emily adds that the holidays are a time for people—especially freelancers and remote workers—to reflect on what’s next.
This is your moment to show how your coworking space can be part of their 2025 story.
January: The Golden Month for Memberships
The data is clear: January is prime time for coworking sign-ups.
Bernie shares why consistent, low-effort marketing in December can put your space front and center when people make their new year plans.
Emily emphasizes that communication doesn’t need to be flashy—it just needs to remind people you’re there and ready to help them start strong.
Staying Visible Without Burning Out
Keeping your team energized during the holidays is non-negotiable.
Bernie and Emily break down the essentials: automate emails, schedule posts, and use tools like Slack or WhatsApp to maintain lightweight communication with members.
Keeping things simple and consistent keeps you connected without overloading yourself or your staff.
Holiday Offers That Work Without Cheapening Your Space
Discounting memberships can backfire, making your space feel less valuable. Instead,
Bernie suggests offering day passes or short-term memberships to attract people looking for a quiet, professional environment during the holidays.
These small, thoughtful touches can introduce new members without sacrificing your long-term goals.
Why Freelancers and Remote Workers Seek Coworking During the Holidays
With offices often shut and home life in complete holiday chaos, professionals need a place to focus.
Emily points out that suburban and neighbourhood coworking spaces are perfectly positioned to meet this demand.
Bernie adds that the rising awareness of flexible workspaces means more people are searching for nearby options—and you want your space to be the one they find.
The Coworking Community Builder Cohort: Real Support, No Fluff
The conversation wraps with an introduction to the Coworking Community Builder Cohort.
Bernie and Emily explain how this 12-week program allows owners and community managers a place to connect, plan, and build productivity systems that work for them.
It’s not about selling solutions; it’s about working together to create approaches that fit your space, community, and goals.
Why This Episode Matters
This isn’t your typical holiday advice.
Bernie and Emily examine the practical, no-nonsense challenges of running a coworking space during one of the year’s most unpredictable seasons.
They offer a clear path forward that respects the realities of running space while showing how small, thoughtful actions can set you up for success in January and beyond.
Links & Resources:
One more thing
Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.
Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability.
These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow.
We hope this resonates with you.
If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast.
Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities.
Community is the key 🔑
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