Remote work offers flexibility, freedom, and the ability to create a personalized work-life balance. However, one of the biggest challenges for remote workers—especially digital nomads—is staying socially connected. Without an office environment, it can be easy to feel isolated, which can impact motivation, creativity, and mental well-being.
Here are some effective ways to build and maintain social connections while working remotely.
1. Join Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces provide an instant community of like-minded professionals. Whether you’re in a new city or working remotely in your hometown, these spaces offer opportunities to network, collaborate, and socialize. Many coworking spaces host events, workshops, and social gatherings, making it easy to meet people.
- Look for coworking memberships that include networking events.
- Try different coworking spaces in new cities to expand your professional circle.
2. Engage in Online Communities
There are countless online groups where remote workers and digital nomads connect. Whether on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Slack, these communities provide a space to share experiences, ask for advice, and even find virtual meetups.
- Join digital nomad and remote work groups on Facebook and Reddit.
- Participate in Slack or Discord communities for remote professionals in your field.
- Follow location-specific groups to find local networking events.
3. Schedule Virtual Coffee Chats
Just because you work remotely doesn’t mean you can’t have “watercooler” conversations. Schedule virtual coffee chats with colleagues, fellow freelancers, or professionals in your industry.
- Set up a recurring coffee chat with a coworker or a friend in a different city.
- Use platforms like Lunchclub or LinkedIn to connect with professionals for networking calls.
4. Attend Networking Events and Conferences
Industry conferences, meetups, and networking events provide opportunities to connect in person. Many cities have remote work meetups specifically for digital nomads and freelancers.
- Check platforms like Meetup.com or Eventbrite for events in your location.
- Attend remote work retreats or conferences like Nomad Summit or Remote Work Europe.
5. Work from Cafés and Public Spaces
Changing your work environment can naturally lead to new social interactions. Working from cafés, libraries, or hotel lounges can help you meet fellow remote workers and locals.
- Choose a café with communal seating to encourage conversations.
- Be open to small talk—simple conversations can lead to lasting connections.
6. Plan In-Person Meetups with Remote Colleagues
If you work for a remote company, suggest in-person meetups with your team. Some companies already host annual retreats, but if not, take the initiative to organize small coworking trips.
- Suggest a company-wide coworking week in a central location.
- Plan regional meetups if you have colleagues in the same country.
7. Join Local Clubs and Hobby Groups
Getting involved in non-work-related activities is one of the best ways to build lasting social connections. Whether it’s a fitness class, language exchange, or book club, these activities help integrate remote workers into local communities.
- Sign up for group fitness classes like yoga, CrossFit, or running clubs.
- Use apps like Meetup or Couchsurfing Hangouts to find local events.
- Attend language exchange meetups if you’re living in a foreign country.
8. Use Co-Living Spaces
Co-living spaces are designed for remote workers who want to be part of a community. These residences offer private rooms with shared common areas, fostering interaction and networking.
- Look for co-living spaces such as Selina, Outsite, or Roam.
- Choose locations with communal dinners or planned activities.
9. Stay Connected with Friends and Family
Maintaining existing relationships is just as important as making new connections. Set aside time to call, text, or video chat with friends and family members.
- Schedule regular catch-up calls with close friends.
- Use voice messages or video updates to make conversations more personal.
10. Travel with a Remote Work Community
Some organizations offer remote work travel programs where groups of digital nomads travel and work together. These programs provide built-in social interaction and networking opportunities.
- Consider joining Remote Year, WiFi Tribe, or Hacker Paradise.
- Look for short-term group trips that align with your schedule.
11. Take Advantage of Social Apps for Nomads
Several apps help digital nomads and remote workers connect in real life.
- Nomad List: Helps you find other digital nomads in your area.
- Tandem: Great for language exchange and meeting locals.
- Bumble BFF: Designed for making new friends.
12. Set Social Goals
If socializing doesn’t come naturally, set goals to ensure you’re making an effort.
- Commit to attending one networking event per month.
- Plan weekly coworking sessions with a friend.
- Make it a habit to introduce yourself to someone new in coworking spaces or cafés.
Staying socially connected while working remotely requires effort, but it’s worth it. Whether through coworking spaces, travel groups, or online communities, there are plenty of ways to maintain meaningful relationships and avoid loneliness in the remote work lifestyle.