What can you expect from a #coworking event?
The Coworking Spain Conference (CWsC) is held in Valencia this week, entitled "The shared city". As it is already in its fourth edition, the Spanish coworking conference has proven to be a great way to get up-to-date with what's happening in the spanish coworking movement. On the other side of the pond, the GCUC USA 2015 will take place in two weeks' time in Berkeley (San Francisco, United States). This event is growing internationally and editions will also be held in Canada and Australia this year.
These events are a great opportunity to connect with the coworking community and find out all of the latest goings-on associated with the coworking movement and new initiatives. Participants are usually space managers, coworkers, public administration representatives, service providers, etc.
Jamie Russo gives some really good tips in this article about how to get the most from attending this type of conference.
After regularly attending this type of event, here are some of the most important aspects that we've found at every edition:
- Data about the evolution of coworking: At the last CW Europe, Carsten Foertsch revealed the 2014 Deskmag survey summary. In the coming GCUC2015, the results from the survey conducted by Emergent Research on the impact of networking in coworking spaces will be presented. This type of conference gives you a good chance to get up-to-date with data on coworking's growth and its status in different parts of the world.
- Veteran space managers' experience: Although coworking is "relatively" new, 10 years have passed since Brad Neuberg opened the first space in 2005 in San Francisco. Anyone who is new to the world of coworking or who is thinking about opening a space will be able to meet and talk to space managers with years of experience. They openly share their knowledge on coworking models, business plans, community building, marketing, etc. It's like going to an advanced coworking workshop in just a few days!
- New initiatives and trends: The coworking movement evolves rapidly year after year with new elements, models and tools. Panels and debates on the future of coworking can give you a closer glimpse at what to expect in the coming years.
- Tools and platforms: You will have the opportunity to find out about products and services that could help you with your space's day-to-day tasks. From coworking software and community-building tools to furniture and gadgets, you can talk to suppliers and ask them all the questions you may have and really find out about what they have on offer.
- Open formats: There is space for participants to propose subjects in barcamps or unconferences at CWsC and GCUC. Would you like to exhibit or learn about a specific subject? Now's your chance!
- Fun, surprises and stickers: On top of everything mentioned, the coworking community is very open and welcoming. Whether you're a coworking veteran or first timer, there are plenty of surprises and fun in store. I will be experiencing my first Copass Camp in Valencia, which looks amazing. At this type of event, I also love collecting stickers and badges from the different coworking spaces (or making them myself!)
