Coworking, which is expanding rapidly across the world, is attracting a growing number of entrepreneurs, freelancers and small businesses. These shared spaces offer flexibility, networking opportunities and modern infrastructures that meet the needs of today’s professionals. But behind the smooth running of these collaborative spaces lies a key player who is often overlooked: the coworking manager. This professional is much more than just a manager. They are the soul and driving force behind coworking spaces, ensuring smooth operations while cultivating a dynamic community.
1. A versatile and indispensable manager
The role of the coworking manager goes far beyond the simple administration of a space. He or she is responsible for many aspects that are essential to the smooth running of a coworking space. This includes managing bookings, maintaining the infrastructure and providing customer support, as well as organizing events and training courses. The coworking manager ensures that everything is in place so that each member can work in the best possible conditions.
This versatility is what makes the role so valuable. From managing meeting room schedules to coordinating with external service providers for services such as Internet or maintenance, the coworking manager needs to be responsive and organized to ensure a smooth experience for every user.
2. Creating a strong community
One of the most important aspects of the coworking manager’s role is community management. In a coworking space, it’s the interactions between members that make the place so rich. The coworking manager plays a central role in creating and maintaining this dynamic. By organizing networking events, workshops and even collective coffee breaks, he or she encourages exchanges and collaboration between members.
As human relations are at the heart of coworking spaces, the manager must have a real ability to understand the needs of members and to connect them. This role of facilitator of professional links is essential to create a friendly atmosphere, where freelancers can find clients, entrepreneurs partners, and SMEs talent to recruit.
3. User experience guarantor
The user experience is paramount in a coworking space, and the coworking manager is its guarantor. He or she must ensure that each member benefits from an optimal working environment, whether in terms of comfort, services or atmosphere. This can range from a warm welcome when new members arrive, to rapid resolution of any technical or logistical problems.
The coworking manager also listens to feedback from members. Whether it’s adjusting the temperature, improving the quality of the Internet or installing new amenities, he or she must be able to anticipate needs and act quickly to ensure that every member feels comfortable and well looked after.
4. An expert in resource management
Coworking spaces need to be optimally managed to ensure their viability. The coworking manager is often responsible for budget management, resource planning and day-to-day operations. This includes monitoring members’ subscriptions, managing operating costs and coordinating with service providers.
This effective management ensures that the space remains functional, pleasant and profitable. In some cases, the coworking manager is also involved in the development strategy of the space, contributing to its expansion or to the continuous improvement of the services offered.
5. Customer support and loyalty
The coworking manager is also the first point of contact for members when they need assistance. Whether for logistical questions, specific requests or simply to obtain advice, this professional must be available, friendly and responsive.
Their ability to resolve problems quickly and efficiently is a key factor in member satisfaction. A satisfied member is more likely to stay in the coworking space for a long time, which contributes to the financial stability of the establishment. What’s more, good customer service encourages word-of-mouth, a valuable asset in the coworking environment, where personal recommendations are often decisive.
6. Coworking ambassador
Finally, the coworking manager is often the ambassador for the space he or she manages. He or she represents the space externally, particularly at professional events, conferences or on social networks. Their job is to publicize the coworking space and attract new members.
This representative role requires solid communication skills and a real sense of welcome. A coworking manager who embodies the values and atmosphere of the space makes a major contribution to its appeal and reputation.
The success of a coworking space depends largely on the skills and dedication of the coworking manager. As a true Swiss Army knife, he or she plays a crucial role in managing operations, animating the community, guaranteeing a quality user experience and building member loyalty. By creating a welcoming environment conducive to collaboration, the coworking manager is the precious resource that makes all the difference to the success of a coworking space.
