Communicating Across the World: Staying in Touch as a Digital Nomad

As a digital nomad, traveling to a different country for work or to run your blogging business is freeing and can provide for a wonderful life. 

If you want to be successful, however, you will want to be sure you have all your ducks in a row before making the move. For example, if you have clients in other countries or you collaborate with other bloggers across the world, you need to have solid communication options.

Technology allows us to work wherever we want, anywhere in the world. But it’s not the same in every location, so there are some important things you need to consider. 

One of the biggest challenges people run into involves figuring out how to handle mobile communications. We’ll take a look at this and a handful of other issues you’ll face working as a digital nomad.

Figuring out the mobile phone situation

Let’s say your home base is the United States. If you have a mobile phone plan for your business that you signed up for in the US, that plan isn’t going to work if you are nomading it in a different country like Australia, for example. 

First, you’ll want to look for a mobile phone carrier that offers plans with international service. Second, you’ll want to make sure that you get solid coverage in the country you’re working and playing in. 

In the case of Australia, for example, it’s a large country and has its own carrier networks. Some networks are smaller than others and therefore, you need to figure out which carrier is predominant in the area you will be frequenting the most. 

Rather than trusting the international service quality of your US-based carrier, you may want to consider finding the nearest mobile phone shop in your new area and asking about the network coverage and whether there are suitable mobile phone plans that will serve you for the duration of your stay. 

Internet Connections

Obviously, as with most jobs these days whether local or international, an internet connection is critical. Some countries have better coverage than others, so you’ll want to be aware of your surroundings to ensure you stay connected. 

If you plan to set up shop for the long-term in a hotel, inquire into the internet capabilities and strength of signal. If the hotel has quality, reliable connection, you’re all set. 

If you’re staying in a home or another setting where you are responsible for setting up the connection, make sure to do your research. Don’t just set up shop with the first internet service provider. Make sure you check out how ingrained they are in the area you’re staying in and what level of coverage and speed is available. 

If you’re on the move, try using your mobile hotspot, or you can try free wi-fi at cafes and other establishments. If you use the latter of these two options, however, be sure your device is secure and you aren’t open yourself up to cyber spies. 

Social Media Options

Different countries allow different levels of social media access. They also have different channels available. 

As such, if your business relies on a particular social media channel, make sure you check the status of that channel in the country to which you’re traveling. 

Countries like China, Russia, Uganda, and Iran have enacted bans on various social media channels, or on social media as a whole.

So, if you plan to work within a country that shuns social media and your business relies on social media to communicate, you’ll need to consider other channels to stay in touch with your audience.

Final Thoughts on Communicating Across Countries as a Digital Nomad

Enjoy your journey. That’s the most important part. Working as a digital nomad is a great way to live. 

Just be sure to take everything into account when it comes to communication. Communication is key in business success, and if you drop the ball during your travels, you can take a serious hit.