[gabrielroth]

Here's something that's easy to forget: Everyone else at a Hackspace or a meetup or a user group is there for the same reason as you. If they just wanted to write a bunch of code they'd be at home in their bedroom. If they go to one of these events, they're hoping to meet like-minded people. The more people there, the better. So they'll be pleased if you attend.

This goes double for the organizers, by the way. Imagine organizing one of these events: booking the space, posting about it online, arriving early to set up ... Your biggest nightmare would be that no one shows up. When you arrive, walk up to the organizer, introduce yourself, and thank him for his effort. I guarantee you he'll appreciate it.

[olegious]

As an organizer of a Meetup group, I can say that your 2nd point is on the money.

I had one event where there were just as many sponsor reps as attendees- that felt horrible. I had another where we exceeded seating capacity, ran out of beer and pizza but everyone (including myself) came away thrilled.

[jwdunne]

The first paragraph was exactly what I was looking for. It's one of those things that really hits home when it's spelled out to you.

I'll remember that tip too, much appreciated. It never crossed my mind and, looking at it, I'd be pretty selfish if I didn't.