Freelancing offers flexibility and freedom, but it can also feel lonely without the structure and camaraderie of a traditional office.  

Shazmin Borlandoe, a social media and brand strategist on the Wripple platform, emphasizes the importance of community, "Community is everything in the gig economy—it turns what can sometimes feel like a solo journey into a shared experience. Having a strong community provides support, inspiration, and opportunities that I might not have come across on my own."

The good news? There are plenty of ways to connect and grow your network. According to our 2025 Team Up Research, 41% of freelancers participate in both formal and informal networking opportunities. But this means 59% of freelancers may be missing out on valuable opportunities to grow, learn, and build a stronger community. Don’t let that be you—here’s how to get connected:

Tap into Online Communities

One of the easiest ways to connect with like-minded freelancers is through online groups and communities. Whether you’re looking for support, project referrals, or just a place to chat about the ups and downs of freelance life, there’s an online space for you.

• Facebook Groups: Local groups dedicated to creatives and freelancers can be goldmines for networking, job opportunities, and industry insights. Search for “[your city] + creatives” or “[your field] + freelancers” to find active communities.

• Slack & Discord Channels: Many industries have dedicated Slack and Discord groups where freelancers can ask questions, share job leads, and build relationships.  

"Community starts with being intentional about building relationships. I make it a priority to stay engaged with my network—whether that’s through LinkedIn, Instagram DMs, or even casual chats with peers," says Borlandoe.

Attend Networking Events & Meetups

Nothing beats face-to-face interactions when it comes to forming genuine connections. Attending networking events, industry conferences, or local meetups can introduce you to potential clients, collaborators, and fellow freelancers.

• Keep an eye on platforms like Eventbrite and Meetup for industry-specific events in your area.

• Look for freelancer-focused networking events, creative panels, or workshops where you can meet others in a relaxed, engaging environment. For example, CreativeMornings is a worldwide organization that hosts monthly events that bring creatives together, providing a space for inspiration and connection.

Join and Leverage Coworking Spaces

Coworking spaces aren’t just about having a desk outside your home—they’re hubs for connection and collaboration.

• WeWork & Other Spaces: Many coworking spaces host social events, professional development workshops, and networking sessions. These events are a great way to meet fellow freelancers and potential clients.

• Day Pass Options: Not ready for a full-time membership? Many coworking spaces offer day passes, so you can drop in occasionally and take advantage of their community-driven environment.

Give Back to Other Freelancers

Building community is also about what you can give. In fact, our 2025 Team Up Research revealed that 44% of freelancers work with a mentor to help guide their professional growth. Mentorship goes both ways—not only can freelancers seek guidance from a mentor, but they can also support others by sharing their own expertise. Supporting other freelancers helps foster stronger relationships and builds goodwill within the industry.  

• Host Workshops or Engage in One-on-One Mentoring: Sharing your knowledge and experience can help newer freelancers navigate challenges and find their footing. At the same time, having a mentor can provide the guidance and support you need to grow in your own career.

• Amplify Others’ Work: Support fellow freelancers by sharing their content, making introductions, or passing along job leads.

"Instead of just looking for opportunities, I focus on how I can add value—whether that’s sharing a helpful resource, making an introduction, or amplifying someone else’s work. I’ve found that collaborating on projects, sharing knowledge, and offering support, whether through mentorship or just being a sounding board, naturally fosters strong, meaningful connections.” says Borlandoe.

Freelance Platforms

Platforms like Wripple offer freelancers the chance to engage in a wide range of projects, whether independently or as part of a collaborative team, helping build long-term professional connections. Learn more about us here.