New top story on Hacker News: Ask HN: How do remote first businesses maintain cultural cohesion?

Ask HN: How do remote first businesses maintain cultural cohesion?
19 by bognition | 14 comments on Hacker News.
I recently switched to a company that is largely remote first. This is after spending >5 years at a company that was deeply invested in vibrant in person culture. I learned a few key things and I'm looking to apply them in the new job. First a strong culture is built, it doesn't just happen without intention. Second, people need a way to connect with each other emotionally and talk about non work things. Third, people need common activities to keep them engaged and talking until they've built friendships. I suspect most of these will translate to a remote-first company. However, the challenge will be getting people to really connect. I've tried VR and zoom based team building events but those aren't great at building new relationships, instead they help maintain existing relationships. Does anyone know of a company that is doing this well? I'd rather not have to re-invent the wheel if there's good prior art here.