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In today’s fast-paced digital world, professionals are seeking more than just a place to work—they’re looking for connection, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. At Coco, we’ve discovered that what truly makes a coworking space exceptional isn’t the furniture, the high-speed internet, or even the coffee (though ours is pretty great). It’s the coworking community that forms within our walls.
Beyond the Physical Space: The Real Value of Coworking
When we talk to our members about why they choose Coco over working from home or a traditional office, their answers rarely focus on our ergonomic chairs or modern amenities. Instead, they mention:
- “I met my business partner at the coffee bar during a community breakfast.”
- “The energy in the space helps me stay motivated.”
- “I’ve found clients, collaborators, and friends her.e”
- “It feels like I’m part of something bigger than just my own work.”
These responses highlight what research has consistently shown: humans are social creatures who thrive on meaningful connections and intentionally designed spaces. Even the most introverted among us benefit from the right kind of community interaction and environment.
The Science Behind Workspace Community
Studies have shown that professionals who work in collaborative environments report higher levels of job satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being. Notably, a 2015 Harvard Business Review article, “Why People Thrive in Coworking Spaces,” found that people in coworking communities reported thriving at an average of 6 on a 7‑point scale—significantly higher than those in traditional office environments. While the piece is nearly a decade old, its core insight remains relevant: the purpose of coworking—connection, autonomy, and a sense of belonging—continues to drive outcomes even as workplace tools, policies, and hybrid patterns evolve.
Why does this still hold true? Because the best coworking spaces foster what psychologists call “weak ties”—casual connections with people outside your immediate circle that offer fresh perspectives, unexpected opportunities, and a reliable sense of belonging without the pressure of close friendships. These everyday touchpoints, along with intentionally designed spaces and shared rituals, are durable human needs that haven’t changed—even if where and how we work has.
What Makes a Coworking Community Thrive?
At Coco, we believe several key elements contribute to a vibrant workspace community:
1. Authentic Interactions
Forced networking events rarely create lasting connections. Instead, we focus on creating natural opportunities for members and our team to interact, from our community kitchen, coffee bar, and communal-style tables, to create natural conversation intersections
2. Diverse Membership
Our community includes freelancers, entrepreneurs, remote workers, teams of all sizes, and professionals from various industries. This diversity creates a rich ecosystem where different perspectives and skill sets complement each other, leading to reciprocal business opportunities.
3. Shared Rituals
From morning coffee to our carefully curated community events, shared rituals create touchpoints that help members feel part of something special. These consistent, recurring events foster connection, habit, and comfort.
4. Member-Led Initiatives
Some of our most successful community events are those initiated by members themselves. When members take ownership of the community, it becomes self-sustaining and authentic.
Finding Your Place in a Coworking Community
If you’re considering joining a coworking space, here are some tips for finding the right community fit:
- Visit at different times: The vibe of a space can change throughout the day and on different days of the week. Visit during morning rush, lunchtime, and afternoon to get a complete picture. Try a Tuesday for energy and a Friday for focus.
- Ask about community events: Regular events are often the heartbeat of a coworking community.
- Talk to current members: They’ll give you the most honest assessment of the community. Our team is always happy to make connections!
- Consider your work style: Some communities are buzzing with activity, while others maintain a library-like quiet. Neither is better—it’s about what works for you. Pro tip: Finding a space that has a variety of workspaces to meet different working needs.
- Try before you commit: Many spaces, including Coco, offer day passes or trial periods so you can experience the community firsthand. Most spaces have the same elements, so you need to find the community and spaces that work for you!
- Know the staff culture: At Coco, we believe our community thrives because our team thrives. We empower our employees to lead with creativity, empathy, and autonomy—allowing their personalities and passions to shine through in every interaction.
Beyond Work: The Unexpected Benefits of Coworking Community
The benefits of a strong coworking community extend far beyond professional networking. Members feel:
- Reduced loneliness and isolation: Particularly important for remote workers and solopreneurs
- Increased motivation: Being surrounded by productive people who are all working can be contagious and inspiring
- Work-life balance: Having a dedicated workspace with a community creates healthy boundaries
- Learning opportunities: Informal skill-sharing happens naturally in diverse communities. Additionally, community events can focus on areas where you may want to grow personally and/or professionally.
- Sense of belonging: Feeling part of something larger than yourself contributes to overall well-being
Join Our Community
At Coco, we believe that work is better when we do it together. Our spaces are designed not just for productivity, but for connection, collaboration, and community.
Whether you’re looking for a dedicated desk, a private office, or just a place to drop in occasionally, you’ll find more than just a workspace here—you’ll find your people.
Experience the Coco community for yourself. Schedule a tour or grab a day pass to see what makes our coworking spaces in Minneapolis special.