There’s no denying it — coworking is no longer just a trend. It’s a transformative force that’s redefining how we work, connect, and build community.
This year, StellaPop attended the Global Coworking Unconference Conference (GCUC) in Boston—a gathering of great minds in the coworking world created to inspire not just functional spaces but thriving communities across the globe.
And StellaPop’s very own coworking expert, Angie O’Grady, walked away with three significant takeaways from the event — and what they mean for coworking space operators who want to create lasting impact:
1. Coworking is the Antidote to the Loneliness Epidemic
The rise of remote work has brought undeniable perks — flexibility, autonomy, convenience- but it’s also come with a cost: disconnection.
In her GCUC keynote, Liz Elam, founder of the conference, described the “loneliness epidemic” sweeping through remote workers who are missing out on meaningful, in-person interaction.
And coworking spaces are uniquely positioned to solve this.
What sets coworking apart isn’t just the open floor plans or flexible memberships — it’s the community. The people. The energy.
As Liz said in a recent article:
“Whether through casual conversations in the kitchen, curated networking events, or members who support each other’s success, coworking creates an environment where people feel seen, supported, and part of something bigger.”
Angie left GCUC feeling more convinced than ever that the true value of a coworking space lies in how well it brings people together. Operators who embrace that (and bake it into the culture) will win by asking themselves:
- Are we actively building a culture of connection in our space?
- Are our members finding more than just a desk, but a community and a network too?
2. Let’s Stop Calling It “Flex”
Coworking operators are not “flex” operators.
Yes, coworking spaces offer flexibility. But coworking is not just about flexibility. It’s about purpose-built environments that drive creativity, collaboration, and connection. Calling it “flex” strips away the very essence of what makes coworking powerful, as ‘flex’ tends to imply a transactional rental.
And coworking implies community. Hospitality. Experience.
Here’s how they differ:
- Coworking: Shared, community-driven environments that prioritize networking, events, and a sense of belonging. Often more fluid, inclusive, and culture-forward.
- Flex Offices: Typically private, dedicated spaces leased by the month or year, with fewer shared touchpoints or community-building moments and are more geared toward small to mid-sized teams.
If you’re building a coworking brand, embrace that identity. Because the future of work isn’t just flexible; it’s connected, thoughtful, and intentional.
3. Your Community Managers Are Your Brand
Your coworking space is only as good as the people who represent it.
So, the third big takeaway from the conference was the pivotal role community managers play — not just as operations support, but as culture-carriers. And here’s what we know: it can’t be faked.
You need people with what Angie calls “customer service DNA.” Individuals who instinctively go above and beyond, who thrive in face-to-face environments, and who understand that the little things (remembering a member’s coffee order, making a new guest feel welcome, organizing casual meetups) are what keep members coming back.
Look for talent with a hospitality background, not just office administration. People who’ve worked in restaurants, hotels, or events often have the instinct for service and the emotional intelligence needed to thrive in coworking.
3 Signs You Have the Right Community Manager in Place
Here are a few markers that you have the right people in the right places:
- They proactively engage with members and spark conversation.
- They anticipate needs before they’re asked.
- They genuinely care about creating a welcoming, inclusive space.
- They genuinely generate a sense of community and support amongst members.
StellaPop Consulting: Co-Working Experts
An estimated 10,000 coworking spaces open around the world each year. Joining the coworking space brigade can mean serious success — and serious bucks.
StellaPop’s Angie O’Grady has spent over three decades leading some of the most successful coworking brands in the industry, from HQ Global Workplaces. Today, she offers coworking consulting at StellaPop, helping space operators refine their business models, streamline operations, and build vibrant communities that thrive.
From launch plans to brand strategy, team hiring to community building, Angie brings deep operational know-how with a people-first approach that guides expansions and launches new spaces across:
- Business Modeling
- Industry Best Practices
- Strategic Planning
- Sales & Marketing
- Operations
- Franchise Management
- Expansion Management
- Flexible Office Management
- New Center Launch Support
- Retained Search & Talent Acquisition
- Processes & Procedures
- Software Implementation
The Future of Coworking Is Personal
GCUC was a powerful reminder of what makes coworking work: people.
Not desks. Not floor plans. Not “flexible” contracts. People. Relationships. Community.
Whether you’re a new operator or an established brand looking to evolve, investing in your team, your culture, and your brand identity is what sets you apart. And if you’re ready to take the next step, let’s talk about how Angie can help you build a coworking brand that stands out — because your members deserve more than just a seat.
