Making Connections in a New Community as a Remote Worker

Remote work presents numerous advantages, ranging from a flexible schedule to the absence of daily commuting. But for those remote workers who have recently moved or are planning to relocate to a new city or rural area, integrating into the local community can be challenging. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to meet new people and establish yourself even without an office to go to during the week. Here are some strategies that remote workers can use to engage and integrate into their new community.

Get Out of the House

One of the benefits of remote work is that you typically set your own hours but it's still important to have a routine that gets you out of the house on a regular basis. One survey showed that 16% of remote workers chose to work from a location other than their home including coffee shops, coworking spaces, or their local library. The cadence you work from a different location is up to you but having familiar places you frequent a few hours a day or week provides the opportunity to meet and engage with new people.

Introduce Yourself to the Community

Don't hide the fact that you're new to town and introduce yourself to local business owners and community members when you drop by the local coffee shop or hit the gym after work. Locals will often be excited to recommend places to go and fill you in on community happenings. Some may even invite you to join them at an upcoming event. Being open about your newcomer status also makes it clear you're actively looking to make friends and get involved.

Venture Out

Seeking out community centers, recreational sports leagues, classes, religious services and other public events can help you begin mingling with locals. If you start a conversation with someone you click with, don’t be afraid to ask if they want to continue chatting over coffee. Apps like Meetup can help you find groups focused on particular hobbies and activities so you can connect with people who have similar interests to yours. Some communities such as Frankfort, Kentucky make it easy for newcomers to get acquainted with other locals by offering activities such as a progressive dinner with other Frankfort residents and the opportunity to mingle with the mayor.

Volunteer in the Community

Look for opportunities to volunteer at a local food bank or get involved in a clothing drive to help form connections with other residents and newcomers. Offering your time, talents and skills to local nonprofits and causes you care about is a great way to form new connections. In one study, 30% of millennials said they developed new friendships through their volunteer work. Whether it's environmental initiatives, community outreach programs, or charity events - volunteering fosters a sense of purpose and connection with others who share a commitment to making a positive impact.

Join Local Online Communities

In the digital age, online communities play a crucial role in connecting individuals with shared interests. Remote workers can join local social media groups, forums, or platforms such as Nextdoor that are dedicated to their new city or rural area. These spaces allow for virtual introductions, event announcements and discussions, making it easier to connect with locals and stay informed about what’s going on in their neighborhood and community.

Mix Up Your Routine

Get out of your comfort zone by visiting new places instead of sticking to spots you visit on a regular basis. Make it a goal to try one new location, hobby, or experience a few times a month such as a new restaurant, checking out a band, or going to a local fair. For example, remote workers new to Southern Indiana have access to numerous outdoor spaces including several national and state parks. Maintaining an open, curious mind as you continue exploring your new community will lead to more chances to connect.

Building a community as a remote worker in a new location means being an active participant in forming new friendships. The keys to forming your community in a new city or rural area lie in your efforts and willingness to engage. Unleash the power of connection by participating in local events and community causes - all while enjoying the flexibility and autonomy remote work brings. By doing so, you may find that it won’t take long before you start to feel like a local.