The underlying good in all things is positive relationships. Therefore, connecting well is important. But sometimes, it’s not about trying to put yourself anywhere and everywhere to network.
It’s about space. Intentionally thought-out space!
You can create community with well-designed spaces that are intentional about making all those who enter feel welcome and wanting to engage. Do you really need to sit behind a big bulky desk when talking with an employee, a colleague, or client? Not unless you are intending to create a power imbalance.
Post Covid, the way we work has changed and so must our workspaces; especially if we want our teams to work together and with others.
Pay attention to your environment. Sure, nice art and good aesthetics make for a pretty space; but if you are intentional about the vibe your aesthetic portrays, it will cultivate creativity, collaboration and well-being. Throw in good food, music, and mural art and you have a recipe for genuine community-building space where people want to bring their best self.
At Bounce Innovation Hub, our space exudes community and creativity. We have a lot of space - 300,000 square feet to be exact. Nine floors. 14 individually-designed bathrooms (even one spray-painted by Monster Steve). 11 conference rooms. 13 communal tables and over 150 chairs. Good coffee (thank you, Akron Coffee Roasters). Exposed brick. Modern industrial vibes. Live plants. Mix in all the creative people and voila! Instant community.
Bounce is so much more than the occasional mixer of conference space. You will run into someone to talk to in the elevator, at the café or in line at Food Truck Wednesdays.
No need to plant yourself at a restaurant downtown just to be seen. You can sit at our kitchen counter with your packed lunch!
Don’t just take our word for it, see for yourself next time you’re here or schedule a tour. Many of our resident entrepreneurs with office space in the building get it: individual desks making a circle, long tables in lieu of the standard desk, an office bar for after work gatherings, art studios filled with local art not yet framed.
Create the environment where people want to bring their best selves… the kind that:
- Allow you to organically bump into others
- Exhibits art and creativity beyond just your branding materials
- Tables, chairs and comfy conversational furniture to encourage connection, storytelling, and mutual support
We often hide behind our titles or our expertise…. or our desk. When was the last time you looked around your workspace and wondered if it would hinder authentic relationship building? Take a look around; and if you want to do better, give us a call.
You don’t have to make time for community, make the space for it! Bounce has it.