Episode Summary:
Coworking spaces thrive on community—but too many spaces get it wrong from the start.
In this episode, Emily and Bernie discuss the five biggest mistakes coworking leaders make, from focusing on desks over culture to pushing for rapid growth at the expense of real connection.
Based on insights from 180+ podcast interviews and years of hands-on coworking experience, they share practical strategies for building a real community, not just filling a space.
You’ll learn how to avoid these common pitfalls, create an environment where members actually want to stay, and set up systems that support a thriving coworking space.
In addition, you can access a free five-day email course and learn how to join the Coworking Community Builder Cohort, which offers ongoing support from experienced coworking leaders.
Why Coworking Operators Should Listen:
✅ You’re building a community—but no one’s engaging.
Learn why coworking spaces struggle to create connection and how to build a real sense of belonging.
✅ You’re focusing on features, not feelings.
Members don’t stay because of fast WiFi or free coffee—they stay because they feel seen and supported.
✅ Your communication is messy or inconsistent.
If you’re using too many tools (or the wrong ones), members won’t stay in the loop. Learn how to simplify and streamline.
✅ You think growth means more people.
Filling desks isn’t the same as building a sustainable, engaged community—here’s how to grow the right way.
Timeline Highlights:
[00:03] – Running a coworking space means wearing too many hats—why do small spaces need better systems?
[01:15] – Mistake #1: Marketing a “thriving community” before you’ve actually built one.
[03:21] – Mistake #2: Focusing on features instead of feelings.
[05:21] – The power of rituals in coworking spaces—why simple traditions create stronger communities.
[08:16] – How hospitality is about making people feel seen—not about luxury.
[09:05] – Mistake #3: Letting cliques form and failing to notice who’s missing.
[10:40] – Why some coworking spaces feel unwelcoming (even if they don’t mean to be).
[12:32] – Mistake #4: Poor communication—why your members don’t know what’s happening?
[13:58] – Why email still matters—and how to use it effectively in coworking.
[15:30] – The mistake of switching communication tools too often—keep it simple.
[16:10] – Mistake #5: Thinking growth only means more people.
[17:51] – Why do coworking spaces with strong communities thrive longer than ones that grow too fast?
[18:43] – How the Coworking Community Builder Cohort helps coworking leaders avoid these mistakes.
[20:07] – Upcoming events, including European Coworking Day and workshops on AI, hospitality, and inclusive space design.
Key Takeaways for Coworking Operators:
💡 You can’t fake community. Don’t market a “thriving community” until you’ve actually built one. Start small and let it grow naturally.
💡 Features don’t keep members—feelings do. Fast WiFi and coffee won’t create loyalty. A strong culture and a sense of belonging will.
💡 Good communication isn’t about fancy tools—it’s about consistency. Use simple, effective methods and make sure people actually see your messages.
💡 Growth is about the right people, not just more people. A packed space isn’t a strong community if members aren’t connected.
🎁 Bonus: Get the free email course—"5 Biggest Mistakes Coworking Community Builders Make (And How to Avoid Them)."
📩 Sign up for the London Coworking Assembly newsletter below to get the free five-day email course.
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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