A DIGITAL NOMAD’S GUIDE TO NETWORKING IN BALI
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Boost Your Career in Bali: A Digital Nomad's Guide to Networking and Expositions
The digital nomad lifestyle has been booming in popularity. Pushed on by new technology, changing work culture, and a desire for greater freedom, digital workers can be found all over the world these days. If you’re adaptable and have the proper discipline & motivation, the digital nomad lifestyle can be an exciting and fulfilling one. A huge benefit is the ability to craft a work-life balance that works for you. As a digital nomad, you are free to travel the world, meet new people, and choose your lifestyle, all while continuing to make a living. You can really make your life what you want it to be.
Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to push yourself in your chosen field and make major advancements in your career. But how? And where?
WHY BALI? WHY NOT!
You don’t have to look very hard to find a ton of reasons that Bali is a favorite destination of digital nomads. First of all, the province has proven how friendly it is to digital workers by having a few different work visa options that apply to digital nomads. A “Visa On Arrival” is perfect for short-term stays (less than 60 days), “The Visit Visa B211A” is valid for 60 days but can be extended up to 180 days, and the “Second Home Visa” is valid for 5 years, but a bit more prohibitive because it requires the traveler to show proof of funds ($140,000 USD).
Rent prices are average (anywhere between $500-$2500 per month, depending on where you are), but aside from that, the cost of living is low. Food and transportation, in particular, are very reasonable. Most importantly, the digital nomad community is thriving in Bali. If you’re looking to set yourself up in a place where you can grow your network, Bali has you covered. Let’s look at a few of the best ways to boost your career while there:
CO-WORKING SPACES
If you want to meet people that can inspire and connect you to boost your career, go to the co-working spaces in Bali. It’s hard to beat a combination of fast internet connections & beachside views, and you’ll find that many digital nomads are drawn to work on their projects in these spaces. Before too long, you’ll be making valuable networking connections as you enjoy the atmosphere of a calm café or a spacious co-living building.
There are a few spaces that have become favorites of the digital nomad community. Outpost, Canggu is often at the top of many co-work space lists with its bright & modern design, indoor & outdoor working spaces, and amenities like café service and even an onsite masseuse! There are multiple branches that offer the same great services, but those looking to be in the heart of Bali’s action will enjoy the Canggu location. Hub Bali is another great one, celebrated specifically for its social atmosphere and emphasis on making work connections.
ONLINE NETWORKING
A huge perk of the digital nomad lifestyle is that a lot of great networking can be done from your computer. For those looking to work in Bali for any length of time, there are a number of great spots to start seeking out connections. Digital Nomads Bali is an easy one: a Facebook group with roughly 69,800 members. You’ll find a variety of resources on there, from advice on the proper visa for you, to advice on where to grab a drink after work. A lot of people also offer to meet up in a group setting or travel around after getting to know each other through this group, so it can introduce you to real-life friends, connections, and mentors too.
NETWORKING IN-PERSON
A quick Google search will introduce you to many, many options for those digital nomads looking to make their connections IRL. For example, Rosalita’s Cantina regularly hosts Expat Networking evenings, Tropical Nomad Coworking Space hosts a workshop and networking event for nomads in August, and many other coworking spaces, such as Livit Hub offer other meetup opportunities for remote workers.
Have a special interest? While in Bali, you may find that going on a yoga retreat, taking a cooking class, or trying a surfing lesson introduces you to some people that you truly connect with. Similarly, a day trip, mountain hike, or visit to a local beach bar can definitely yield similar results. Don’t be shy. Get out there and meet the community!
SKILL-DEVELOPMENT
The most important way for a digital nomad to boost their career, however, is skill development. No matter where you are, the digital workers that are constantly learning, growing their skills, and expanding their reach are the ones that are going to thrive and prosper. Even if you’re perfectly happy with your current job and field, it’s only a matter of time before technological advancements and industry developments completely change the work landscape. Taking courses, reading newsletters and articles, and staying in touch with other digital nomads are all vital parts of staying in the game. Bali also happens to offer a perfect atmosphere to focus on this work, with beautiful scenery everywhere in sight to keep you happily planted for long sessions. Lovers of all sorts of different terrain, from mountains to beaches, can easily find a place that suits them to settle in for some skill-building. No matter your goals and ambitions, Bali is a perfect option for you to explore while you build your life.
