The whole ‘work from anywhere’ concept certainly has its perks. Flexibility, freedom and a healthy work/life balance are just some to name a few. However, all this working on the go and changing destinations frequently can make it challenging to create business connections that stick. 

The good news is that there are plenty of ways to connect with others on a professional level while also working remotely. 

1. Join a coworking space!

Coworking spaces are fantastic. They allow a collective group of people to work from the same space, individually, but remain connected physically. Most coworking spots have social gatherings, networking events and workshops, which is a great way to make business connections. Many open-minded people work in coworking spaces and they provide the perfect environment in which to connect professionally. 

2. Online communities are your friends

Online communities are a really good way to connect with others as well as be the catalyst for in-person meet-ups. Slack is one of the best networking tools out there for the digital nomad. It allows you to join networking events in your area and the #mycity hashtag has been a godsend. There is literally a Slack community for everything and anything, and networking and forming business relationships are no different. You can be as specific as you want by narrowing it down to industry and location. Slack is also a useful tool to use to keep in contact with your connections once you have moved on.

Now before you groan, we know, Facebook – that ol’ clunky thing. However, dust off your profile and search for networking events in your area. Not only is it a great way to make business connections, but by meeting them in person, you build a rapport that you can carry with you to wherever you travel next. At the end of the day, nothing beats face-to-face connection. 

If you are a member of Outpost, make sure to join the Whatsapp groups as well as the Outpost Member Hub.

3. Do more of what you love

It might sound simple, but the best business contacts are made organically. Enjoy playing basketball? Join a team. Love a good meditation session? Join a yoga studio. Not only is it a pleasant way to connect with others in general, you may even find your next investor, co-founder or graphic designer. 

4. Volunteer your time

Do good while meeting others. Volunteering for a charity, organisation or group is a great way to give back to your community. It also provides an opportunity to meet new people while bonding over a shared passion. There are many Yayasans (charities) in Bali who are looking for volunteers. From rescuing wildlife and coral reef restoration to teaching local children English and working at orphanages, there is sure to be something you feel passionate about. 

5. Join a community-based travel program or retreat

Traveling solo can often be daunting, but with Hacker Paradise doing all the planning for you, you’re able to spend a whole month fostering deep connections and exploring amazing destinations. Simply choose the destination you’d like to travel to, confirm your spot and off you go! Hacker Paradise will provide you with a hand selected community, awesome full-time facilitators, a modern coworking space and a personal and professional program. It really is one of the best ways to meet others.

6. Engage in Local Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in activities unique to Bali. Take part in language exchanges, cooking classes, cultural festivals, or outdoor adventures – there are so many choices in Bali! By engaging with locals and fellow travelers who share an appreciation for the local culture, you can establish connections that go beyond the surface level and gain a deeper understanding of the place you’re visiting.

7. Travel around

Sometimes, in order to meet people you truly connect with, you need to venture further. The beauty of being based in a certain area is the ability to go on weekend trips or spend time further afield. Bali has one of the most active travel communities in Indonesia and there are options for every budget. Based in Ubud? Consider checking out the quiet rice fields of Sidemen, heading down to the party capital, Canggu or getting your surf on at the wave breaks of Uluwatu. Solo travelers are often looking to connect with others, so make the most of it!

8. Stay at a Coliving

Consider staying in coliving spaces to meet fellow travelers and digital nomads.

What is coliving, you ask? For us, it’s a communal living model where members live in private ensuite rooms with shared spaces, shared facilities and event programming. Communal living fosters a sense of community and provides ample opportunities to make friends and get to know other digital nomads who are living and working abroad.

In all Outpost coliving spaces, community is at the heart of what we do. Whether by the pool, while strolling through the gardens, setting up at the work lounge, over a meal in a dining area or at a nearby cafe, or during a yoga session, you’ll find countless chances to cross paths with fellow coliving residents. If you haven’t already, we invite you to join one of our coliving spaces in Bali or Sri Lanka and become part of our community.