Boundra’s Guide to Building a Thriving Remote Community in Barcelona

Boundra started with one goal in mind: connecting remote workers from around the globe by offering them more than just a place to stay in Barcelona. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with remote work. Our apartments are designed to not only be a home away from home but also a hub where productivity, creativity, and community intersect. By providing a conducive environment for work and networking, we aim to empower remote workers to thrive professionally and personally.

Boundra is committed to connecting remote workers globally by offering them a comprehensive platform in Barcelona that facilitates both professional and social interaction.

With the rise of remote work, the importance of a strong, supportive professional network is undeniable. Creating such a network in a new city or environment, however, can be challenging.

Here are the steps Boundra takes to help remote workers build professional networks and effective work groups:

Find a Coworking Space

One of the first actions you should take when moving to a new city, especially for remote workers seeking to refresh their work environment or expand their professional network, is to explore coworking spaces. Barcelona, renowned for its vibrant work culture, offers a wide variety of coworking spaces that cater to different needs, from quiet areas conducive to deep focus to lively spaces designed for networking and collaboration.

To efficiently find a coworking space that meets your specific requirements, Boundra recommends using the “Coworking Finder” feature on NomadStay’s website (nomadstay.com). This resource is invaluable for quickly identifying a space that matches your work style and networking goals. You can look for coworking spaces close to you or to your future apartment. Go check it out!

Before committing to a subscription, it’s wise to test out a few coworking spaces. Investing a bit more initially to explore different environments can save you from the inconvenience of being tied to a space that doesn’t meet your expectations. This approach not only allows you to assess the ambiance, amenities, and community vibe firsthand but also increases the likelihood of finding a space where you can thrive both professionally and socially.

Boundra encourages taking advantage of local coworking spaces as a means to connect with other professionals, engage in community events, and foster a sense of belonging among remote workers. These spaces offer invaluable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and personal growth, enhancing your remote work experience in Barcelona.

Initiating Conversations in Coworking Spaces

Initiating conversations in coworking spaces is an art that balances respect for personal space with the genuine interest in networking. Observing the environment can give you clues about who might be open to a chat — look for those taking breaks or hanging out in common areas. A simple smile or a casual comment about the space or the day can serve as an icebreaker without feeling intrusive. Coworking spaces often host events and workshops, which are great opportunities to meet people in a more relaxed setting, conducive to networking. If a conversation flows well, suggesting to connect on LinkedIn or exchanging contacts can help turn a brief encounter into a lasting professional connection!

In 2021, while working from a WeWork location in Barcelona, an unassuming detail on my laptop — a collection of stickers representing various places I’ve visited — sparked an unexpected connection. A fellow coworker noticed them and commented on the many locations I had been to, expressing his admiration. Seizing the moment, I suggested we take a break and play a game of pool. It was during this casual game that he revealed he was the 10th employee at Uber. Our conversation unfolded in the most remarkable way, turning a chance encounter into a memorable story.

This encounter serves as a powerful reminder of the opportunities that lie in the initiative to engage. Had I not taken the step to initiate a conversation over a shared interest, this unique connection would never have happened. It underscores the importance of being open and proactive in networking environments; sometimes, the smallest gesture or commonality can lead to significant connections that enrich our professional and personal lives.

Forming Work Groups

Forming work groups within the context of a coworking space can foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and create a more engaged community. Here’s how utilizing tools like WhatsApp or telegram can streamline this process:

• Create a WhatsApp Chat: Start by establishing a WhatsApp group for members of the work group. This chat becomes the central hub for all communications, making it easy to share updates, ask questions, and stay connected. The immediacy and accessibility of WhatsApp make it an ideal choice for real-time communication.
• Share Check-in Times: Encourage group members to share their coworking space check-in times in the WhatsApp chat. This transparency helps in planning impromptu meetings, collaborative work sessions, or even social breaks. Knowing when others will be in the space can maximize opportunities for face-to-face interactions, essential for strengthening the group’s dynamics.
• Send Invitations for Breaks or Meetings: Utilize the chat to send out casual invites, such as “Coffee in 20 min on the 3rd floor?” These spontaneous gatherings can be pivotal for team bonding and brainstorming. They provide a relaxed setting for members to discuss ongoing projects, share ideas, or simply take a well-deserved break together.

Boundra’s initiative aims to connect remote workers in Barcelona by offering practical steps for finding coworking spaces, initiating conversations, and forming work groups. This approach is designed to help remote workers build professional networks and create a sense of community. My encounter at a WeWork Carrer de Pallars shows the potential for meaningful connections through simple interactions.

Boundra continues to develop features to support its community, focusing on enhancing networking and collaboration opportunities.