Networking isn’t just about handing out business cards or chasing followers—it’s about building authentic, lasting connections that fuel professional growth and community. At NuvoDesk, the strongest success comes from genuine relationships, not quick transactions.
Here’s how to ditch the transactional mindset and create meaningful professional relationships, especially in coworking environments like ours.
Follow Up Without Being Salesy
The biggest mistake professionals make after meeting someone new is treating the follow-up like a cold sales pitch. The truth is, people don’t connect with products—they connect with people.
Here are a few ways to stay in touch without feeling pushy:
- Send a thank-you message: A short, thoughtful message goes a long way. Mention something specific you discussed to show you were listening.
- Share a relevant article or resource: Offer something helpful that aligns with their work or interests. It shows you care about their success, not just your pitch.
- Invite them to a NuvoDesk event: Whether it’s Morning Mingle or Lunch & Learn, invite them to a casual setting where the focus is community, not sales.
Tip: Use the NuvoDesk Member Portal to find events, message other members, and track connections you’ve made!
Be Memorable: Lead with Value, Not a Pitch
You’re probably forgettable if your introduction sounds like a rehearsed elevator pitch.
To be truly memorable:
- Share your “why”: People remember stories. Why did you start your business? What excites you about your work?
- Offer help first: Can you refer a client? Recommend a tool? Give advice from experience? Giving before asking builds trust.
- Be curious, not just charismatic: Ask questions, listen actively, and learn about the other person’s goals. People remember great listeners.
At NuvoDesk, long-term partnerships often form over casual chats at the coffee bar or during breakout sessions in the meeting rooms, not through hard sells.
Collaboration Over Competition in Shared Workspaces
One of the most significant advantages of working in a coworking space like NuvoDesk is the ability to collaborate instead of compete. Our members range from solopreneurs and creatives to startup teams and consultants, all with something valuable to offer.
Here’s how to foster collaboration:
- Co-create: Host a joint event, record a podcast, or collaborate on content.
- Cross-refer: If you offer branding, and another member does web design, refer each other.
- Ask for feedback: Shared spaces make it easy to bounce ideas off other professionals in real time.
NuvoDesk encourages this environment by offering shared desks, meeting rooms, and podcast studios that promote interaction, not isolation.
Use the NuvoDesk Member Portal to Stay Connected
Great relationships don’t end after the handshake, and NuvoDesk makes it easy to stay in touch.
Through the NuvoDesk Member Portal, you can:
- Message other members directly
- Join or create community groups for shared interests or industries
- Book meeting spaces to continue your conversations
- Register for events where networking happens organically
Think of the portal as your digital business card—but better. It’s a tool that helps you nurture your network over time, not just collect names.
Final Thoughts
It’s time to move beyond the business card. Whether grabbing coffee with a fellow entrepreneur or connecting through the Member Portal, remember that authentic relationships are built on trust, value, and shared goals—not transactions.
So the next time you network, ask yourself: “Am I here to pitch, or to connect?”
Choose a connection. That’s where the magic happens.
