The world of coworking is where flexibility and community converge. And in this world, one individual stands out for her exceptional dedication and warmth.
Shelly Wahl, the Community Manager at Office Evolution in Golden, Colorado, has been nominated for the prestigious Community Manager of the Year award from the Global Workspace Association (GWA). The finalist will be announced at the GWA FlexForward 2024 conference in Phoenix.
But what makes Wahl’s story truly remarkable isn’t just her nomination—it's the unexpected journey that led her here and the vibrant community she has cultivated along the way. She spoke with Michelle Stiegler of Premier Workspaces to share her story.
The journey to Office Evolution
Wahl’s path to becoming a community manager was an unexpected one. She shared, “I was an office administrator for Coldwell Banker and previously for Century 21 in the real estate industry. When Century 21’s owners retired, the company was sold to Coldwell Banker, and I moved to a larger, more corporate environment. It felt very familiar when I joined Office Evolution because of similar transitions.”
Her background in real estate provided a solid foundation for her role at Office Evolution. “There were a lot of similarities which helped me be successful and have fun building a community I was used to,” Wahl said. “I've been here for two years, and it's been an amazing experience.”
Falling into the flexible office industry
Wahl didn’t actively seek out the flexible office industry; instead, she stumbled upon it while searching for new opportunities. “I was looking for something new when they were restructuring at Coldwell Banker,” she recalled. “I answered a LinkedIn ad, had a good interview, and was invited to meet Stephanie at Office Evolution. Everything just clicked.”
Her passion for the environment and community at Office Evolution shines through. “I'm blessed to be in a wonderful location with great members and an outstanding ownership team,” Wahl said. “When you're happy in your work life and enjoy what you do, it shows and creates a ripple effect.”
Every job has its quirks, and community management is no different. When asked about the most random task she’s had to handle, Wahl hesitated but then shared a humorous anecdote. “I had an esthetician who needed extra Clorox wipes after a session with a client. It was a unique request, but it’s part of the job,” she laughed. “We've all had strange moments, like walking into a client’s office and finding them in the middle of something unexpected.”
What defines the ideal community manager?
When discussing the traits of an ideal community manager, Wahl emphasized the importance of adaptability. “Each location has its own personality and vibe,” she explained. “What works here in Golden might not work in Texas or California. Here, being a jack of all trades, happy, and caring is essential.”
Wahl’s approach is all about making members feel supported and valued. “I want my members to be successful and to enjoy coming to work. Many of their clients think I work for their businesses because I greet them and make them feel welcome,” she said. “You become the face of multiple companies, and their success reflects on us.”
Coworking is still a novel concept for many, and Wahl has a straightforward way of explaining it. “It’s a flexible workspace that meets various needs,” she said. “Whether it's entrepreneurs needing a business address, travelers using conference rooms, or companies wanting their own office without worrying about the overhead costs, we provide a one-stop, all-inclusive solution.”
Wahl appreciates the diversity of businesses at Office Evolution. “We work with so many different types of companies and industries, from aestheticians to geologists. It’s exciting to see such an array of professionals under one roof,” she added.
One of Wahl’s proudest moments involved helping a therapist grow her business. “She started with a Flex Plan, sharing an office with a PR writer. As her business grew, she moved into her own office. It’s a success story for both of us,” Wahl shared. “Listening to their needs and thinking outside the box helps our members succeed.”
Creating a strong community
Wahl excels at fostering connections among members. “I enjoy bringing people together,” she said. “If I hear someone talking about their interests, I introduce them to others with similar passions. It could be over a cup of coffee or during an event. These connections build a sense of community.”
Office Evolution hosts various events to strengthen these bonds. “We’ve had taco bars, open houses, holiday parties, and charity drives. These events bring members together and create a supportive environment,” Wahl explained.
Being a community manager involves juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. “The biggest challenge is being in twenty places at once,” Wahl admitted. “Whether it’s helping someone with printing, setting up a TV, or greeting guests, you have to prioritize and manage your time effectively.”
Wahl believes the role of a community manager is vital. “We’re the heart and brain of the operation, making everyone feel welcome and successful,” she said. “It’s important to give kudos and appreciate the hard work community managers do. A kind word or smile can have a ripple effect, creating a positive environment for everyone.”
Wahl values collaboration with other Office Evolution locations. “We have a coworking Pro Plan that allows members to work from different locations. I coordinate with other community managers to ensure a smooth experience for our members,” she said. “It benefits all of us when we work together and communicate effectively.”
While Wahl hasn’t had the chance to attend many GWA events, she’s eager to get more involved. “I get the emails and plan to participate more in webinars and meetups,” she said. “The support from the GWA is invaluable.”
As Shelly Wahl continues to make a positive impact at Office Evolution, her dedication, warmth, and problem-solving skills set her apart as a truly exceptional community manager. With the upcoming GWA conference in Phoenix, the community eagerly awaits the announcement of the Community Manager of the Year.
For Coworks, sponsoring the Community Manager Awards for the third year is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the coworking movement.
As a company dedicated to providing space management software solutions, we recognize the invaluable role these folks play in shaping successful community spaces. Read about last year’s nominees.
