Let’s be real…

While working from home has made life SO much easier, missing out on the human connection component can also make the day feel a bit lonely at times.

Sure, there are ways we can overcome this — working from a mellow coffee shop or the nearest library. We might even opt into a monthly or annual membership at a local coworking space. But the library and coffee shops can be distracting. And coworking memberships can add up. So, what can we do instead?

There are actually several FREE online coworking platforms that allow you to get your work done in the (virtual) company of others. 

I’ve tried 3 of them myself, and highly recommend these when you need an extra boost of accountability and motivation. 

 

Virtual Coworking Platform #1: Focusmate

Whether you want to work for 25 minutes, 50, or even 75, Focusmate connects you with a fellow work buddy. Focusmate’s free plan allows for three sessions per week.

How does it work? You can make an account, then sign up for a Focusmate virtual coworking session, which occur every 15 minutes on the hour. Once you have your slot, you simply join your session from the dashboard and check in with your partner at the beginning — tell them what you’re working on and what your goal is. Then, you’ll work in silence for your session, and then fill each other in on your progress at the end. 

A little sound will go off once your session is over (it’s not a scary bell sound — don’t worry!). At this point, you’ll check back in with your partner, let them know how your session went, and bid each other adieu. 

My experience: Everyone I’ve met so far on this site has been very friendly, and I’m actually bummed that the sessions are so short, because there’s very little time for a casual chat. However, I’ve felt incredibly productive during these sessions because I want to make sure I have a solid update at the end of it. 

 

 

Virtual Coworking Platform #2: Shut Up & Write! (Meetup)

Okay, so I’ve gotta say… Meetup is pretty awesome. It’s been a huge part of acclimating to the city I’ve lived in for almost five years, as I’ve been able to attend several groups based on my interests, and meet really interesting people.

One of my favorite Meetup groups is Shut Up & Write! Even if you aren’t a writer, this group is an excellent place to get distraction-free work done with other people who are trying to do the same.

How does it work? If you don’t already have a Meetup account, make one, and then join the Shut Up & Write! group. The group is actually global, with sessions occurring throughout the day and week all over the world — from Brazil to Kenya to Australia to much of the U.S. RSVP to a virtual (or in-person) session that works with your schedule.

Sessions last a little over an hour and include a check-in at the beginning and end. 

My experience: I’ve spent the most time in Shut Up & Write! sessions, and I have to say, it’s one of the more mellow and judgment-free virtual spaces I’ve been in. Everyone is very supportive and curious to know what you’re working on, and the long stretches of time really help with knocking out a lot of work! 

 

Virtual Coworking Platform #3: CreativeMornings Virtual FieldTrips

Field trips as a working professional still exist! Join in on one of the many Virtual FieldTrips that CreativeMornings hosts. I’ve attended a Deep Work Session led by Caveday, a 55-minute session that allows you to “work” in silence with dozens of people from around the globe. But they also have several other FieldTrips for professionals — like writing sessions and webinars about various work-related topics (i.e., planning your content calendar, learning new copywriting skills). 

How does it work? Head to the CreativeMornings website, make an account, and sign up for whichever Virtual FieldTrip appeals to you. You’ll receive a link to the event, as well as reminder emails in the days before.

My experience: Though I’ve only attended one Virtual FieldTrip so far, it was a really fun and uplifting session. It’s a huge morale boost to be “working” in the same space as dozens of people from around the world, and getting a little peek into the types of projects others are working on. 

 

 

Takeaways

Virtual coworking is an excellent way to connect with fellow professionals from the comfort of your own home. These sites can help you minimize distractions and connect with people from around the world as you make progress on your work-related tasks. 

If you’ve been feeling lonely — or just want to mix up your routine a bit — as a remote worker, definitely head to one of these sites for a boost of accountability and motivation!