Walking into a room where you don’t know anyone can be intimidating. And if it’s a new country, it can be even more challenging.
I never really gave in-person networking or how important it was much thought until I moved to the U.S.
In India where I am originally from, opportunities or new friends usually come through personal connections, colleagues, or family.
And if I went to an event, I would mostly go with friends or colleagues who I already knew and would hang out with them and not really make any effort to meet other guests.
Of course there was the rare occasion, where I ventured out of my circle to meet new people but it was more organic than intentional.
But in the U.S., where initially I had no network or friends, I quickly realized that networking isn’t just a casual thing—it’s a skill, a strategy, and often the key to unlocking new opportunities.
Here, people often attend events with a clear purpose: to build professional connections, land jobs, grow their businesses, or exchange knowledge.
It was a big shift, but once I embraced it, I saw firsthand how intentional networking can open doors in ways I never imagined.
But just like it took me a while to understand the do’s and don’ts of networking in the U.S., the same applies to any country you move to.
Every culture has its own way of building relationships, and knowing these nuances can make or break your networking success.
I asked members of The Expat Woman Membership to share tips about networking in their countries of origin and countries they lived in and here they are.
I also added mine:
Name: Nyna Caputi
Nyna is the Founder and CEO of The Expat Woman and a LinkedIn Coach. Connect with her on LinkedIn
City/Country : San Francisco
What are the best places/events to network?
At in-person events, coffee shops, co-working spaces
How do folks find networking opportunities and events?
theexpatwoman.com/events, meetup.com, eventbrite.com, lu.ma.com, linkedIn.com, SF Bay Area Chambers of Commerce, co-working spaces
How do people typically network?
Do’s:
- Be genuine and proactive—introduce yourself, don’t wait for folks to approach you and ask insightful questions and show interest in others’ work and passions.
- Offer value, ask questions before asking for favors – what brought you to the event, what support are you looking for?
- Be mindful of time—many professionals have packed schedules.
- Connect on LinkedIn if you would like to have them in your network.
Don’ts:
- Be overly transactional ( selling them something)—networking in SF is relationship-driven.
- Don’t go around the room handing out your business cards
- Skip follow-ups—nurture relationships by following up with a message or inviting them to another event.
- Ignore casual networking opportunities—some of the best connections happen outside traditional settings.
Name: Sierra Merritt
Sierra is a travel enthusiast and founder of Nomadic Virtual Solutions. Connect with her on Linkedin.
City/Country : Mauritius
What are the best places/events to network?
At co-working spaces, embassy events, Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Caudan Arts Centre, Ebène Cybercity, Moka Smart City, Port Louis, and Grand Baie.
How do folks find networking opportunities and events?
Expat.com, Instagram, and Facebook groups
How do people typically network?
Do’s:
- Mauritians are known for being friendly and approachable but you should try to push yourself to approach them first for help
- Always have a business card ready and place emphasis on how you are willing to help or make a contribution
- Many Mauritians speak English but you’ll get a lot further by using French or Creole if you can
- Out of all of the social media platforms, Mauritians are the most active in Facebook groups. Furthermore, you should keep Facebook in mind as a powerful resource for networking
- Check out edbmauritius.org for official investment opportunities and visa information
Don’ts:
- Don’t expect quick transactions. Mauritius has a very laid-back atmosphere and things typically develop at a gradual pace
- Don’t forget to install/use WhatsApp. Many businesses and locals use this to communicate with international guests while in Mauritius, which can be a helpful tool if you don’t have a local sim card
- Don’t forget to seek guidance from expats that have been in Mauritius for a while and can offer advice about how to avoid pitfalls and tactics
- Don’t forget that events close pretty early and so does public transportation. So check transit schedules, drive, or arrange a taxi with a reputable service provider if you are going to attend a networking event past 7pm
Name: Sam Frearson-Tubito
Sam is a third-generation global nomad. Connect with her on LinkedIn here
City/Country: Madrid, Spain
What are the best places/events to network?
At various international clubs i.e. INC Madrid (International Newcomers’ Club of Madrid), IWBB (International Women Building Businesses), Internations – a great platform for internationals and expats to connect with professionals, Chamber of Commerce (American, British, German etc.) they often host networking events.
How do folks find networking opportunities and events?
Through Facebook groups and Instagram, Linkedin Madrid Groups, La Latina and Malasana meet up groups, join a local sports group via facebook. Ie. hiking club.
How do people typically network?
Do’s:
Learn Basic Spanish – Even if many professionals speak English, making an effort goes a long way.
- Be Social & Open – Spaniards value personal relationships in business. Expect some small talk before getting down to business.
- Follow Up with a Coffee (Café con Leche Rule
) – Business meetings often happen over coffee rather than in an office. - Dress Well – Madrid has a stylish business culture; smart casual is the minimum.
- Be Punctual (but Flexible) – Spaniards are more relaxed with time, but you should still aim to be on time.
- Use WhatsApp – Many professionals prefer WhatsApp over email for quick follow-ups.
Don’ts
Don’t Go Straight to Business – Build rapport first; networking in Spain is about relationships.
- Don’t Be Too Formal – Spanish business culture is professional but warm.
- Don’t Ignore Local Customs – A firm handshake or a light kiss on the cheek (for informal settings) is common.
- Don’t Expect Immediate Results – Building trust takes time in Madrid’s business scene.
- Don’t Forget the Siesta Culture – Lunches are long (often from 2-4 PM), and some businesses slow down during that time.
Name: Estefânia Barsante
Estefania is the Founder and CEO of EB HR & Coaching. Connect with her on Linkedin.
City/Country: São Paulo / Brazil
What are the best places/events to network?
Happy hours, events for your area of expertise, sports clubs, running groups, book clubs, classes/courses, any group activity can become a networking opportunity, since Brazilians are really open to meet new people, especially in a informal setting. Also, build deeper connections with some Brazilians and they will introduce you to their network or invite you for a happy hour or gatherings.
How do folks find networking opportunities and events?
You can look online for specific topics or even groups like Internations, but the best is through other Brazilians and group activity settiings, that might have another purpose.
How do people typically network?
Face to face on happy hours, restaurants at meal time (they take 1-hour long lunches), various group activities (be prepared to go to a happy hour afterwards).
Do’s:
- Brazilians are not known for “traditional” networking, but are very open and sociable. So a good tip is to approach people on LinkedIn and ask for a meeting or a coffee. Also, when you go to bars, happy hours or other social gatherings, feel free to approach people and talk to them. They love it!
- Go to a class, join a club, whatever makes you spend time with the same people with some frequency, and the connections will come.
- When you build the connection, ask for intros to other people.
- Always say Yes to their invitations, a beer after class, an açai after running. Even a lunch during a weekend can be a networking opportunity.
Don’ts:
- Be transactional, distant or cold. Brazilians are very warm and they appreciate relationship building. Don’t meet them once and forget.
Name: Munisha Mirchandani
Munisha is a Lifestyle Wellness Coach at The Holistic Expat, Connect with her on Linkedin.
City/Country: Tokyo, Japan
What are the best places/events to network?
With expat women in mind, I would suggest the following: FEW Japan • Internations Tokyo & Yokohama (Women’s Meetups) • ACCJ Women in Business Committee • School Communities • Women’s Business Networking Japan (Facebook Group) • SheSays Tokyo • Coworking Spaces with Women-Focused Events
How do folks find networking opportunities and events?
Facebook groups • Meetup.com • LinkedIn Events • School Communities • Travel • Coworking spaces • Word of mouth
How do people typically network?
- Small gatherings over big networking nights – Brunches, mastermind circles, and casual meetups work best.
- Connecting through mutual friends – Introductions carry weight.
- Business card exchange (Meishi Koukan) – A professional touch, even in casual settings.
- Social first, business later – Trust comes before deals.
Do’s:
- Be warm, but professional – A friendly approach helps, but professionalism is still valued.
- Follow up personally – A quick LinkedIn message or coffee invite helps solidify new connections.
- Be patient – Building trust takes time, but the relationships you form are worth it.
Engage in women’s circles – Women-focused groups often foster stronger, long-term connections.
Don’ts:
- Be overly direct or salesy – Relationship-building comes first; pushing business too soon can be off-putting.
- Expect immediate deals – Networking here is about trust, not instant transactions.
- Overlook social events – Many women in Japan network first through shared interests before talking business.
Name: Julie M. Marx
Julie is the Founder of China Expat Spouse. Connect with her here on LinkedIn.
City/Country : People’s Republic of China
What are the best places/events to network?
In China, guanxi (connections) are everything, and any setting is used to network. Official networking events are organized by the various countries’ Chambers of Commerce, by embassies, by business clubs, etc. but any social interaction will also be a networking opportunity.
How do folks find networking opportunities and events?
WeChat groups (invite-only, so finding the right ones takes some networking already) are the best place to find out about events; tier 1 cities will have event publications (That’s Beijing and That’s Shanghai for instance), tier 2 and tier 3 cities may only have WeChat public accounts talking about events in town; since WeChat introduced its translation feature, finding out about events on the app has become easier, but it is still a bit of a chore;
Most cities have interest-specific groups where foreigners and internationally-minded Chinese mingle (like international clubs, foodie groups, or women’s networks). Finding them can be tricky, as websites are a non-entity. Ask other foreigners or English-speaking Chinese for invites to the relevant WeChat groups. Attend English corners or other language-learning events and keep working your existing network to enlarge your web of guanxi.
How do people typically network?
People network EVERYWHERE and with EVERYONE. From the garbage collector to the highest echelons in business, Chinese society runs on relationships. And you are expected to provide value, just like others will be happy to help you out when you need their support.
Do’s:
- Get an introduction if at all possible. That’s how Chinese society works, and even among foreigners in China, an introduction makes meeting people so much easier
- Have business cards on hand. While WeChat reigns supreme, handing over your business card is still considered good etiquette; use both hands to give and receive cards, look at the card for a while when you have received it (bonus points if you can start a conversation from what you read on the card, like “Could you teach me how to pronounce your Chinese name, please?”), then either place it in front of you on the table, or put it carefully in your card case
- Address others with their title and last name (“Director Wang” or “Vice President Li”) to give them face
- Give gifts from your home culture (make sure the gift you have in mind is culturally appropriate, i.e. no knives, no clocks, no green hats, etc.)
Don’ts:
- Lead with your sale. Relationship building ALWAYS comes before anyone even thinks about addressing business.
- Write on a business card you have received, as that is considered the height of rudeness
- Let the relationship grow cold. Keep engaging with the people you meet, not just when you need something from them
- Believe only formal networking events are worth attending. Any social gathering is a chance to network, and the best connections are made over skewers and beer (in the Northeast) or during an hours-long tea tasting marathon (in Southern China)
Name: Lucilla Girotto
Lucilla is an Emotional and Mental Health Certified Practitioner at Girotto Consulting. Connect with her here on LinkedIn.
City/Country: Canada, British Columbia
What are the best places/events to network? Local networking groups, Chamber of Commerce events, any community gatherings, even at friends’ houses!
How do folks find networking opportunities and events? Facebook, LinkedIn, local newspapers, asking people.
How do people typically network?
Do’s:
- In Canada, particularly on the West Coast, people tend to be relaxed and prefer to build connections before referring you to someone or using your services. Your primary focus should be on establishing trust rather than making a hard sell.
- Practice active listening and take mental notes on people’s behaviors, interests, and the circles they move in.
- Offer help to others before asking for help yourself.
- When you first meet someone, explain what you do and the services you offer, rather than trying to sell anything.
- If you need assistance, approach someone you have an established relationship with. You can ask for help with things like a reference letter, the name of a reliable plumber, or job leads.
- Invite people for coffee, and if it’s a business meeting, request a 20-minute informational interview. This allows you to ask questions about their businesses, services, and the skills they value. It also gives you an opportunity to discuss your own skills and services.
- Be patient. Building a network doesn’t happen overnight.
Don’ts:
- Avoid making a hard sell when you first meet someone.
- Don’t talk exclusively about yourself; allow the other person ample time to speak.
- Don’t come across as overconfident. Most Canadians are quite humble, and work or career achievements are not typically their top priorities.
Name: Paula Sieron-Shanley
Paula is a Real Estate Advisor and Investor . Connect with her here on LinkedIn.
City/Country: San Francisco / Poland
What are the best places/events to network?
The best networking opportunities depend on your specific line of business and your power partners. Always focus on creating value for both your clients and connections when networking.
How do folks find networking opportunities and events?
San Francisco and the Bay Area offer numerous networking opportunities. It’s important to choose wisely and be strategic with your time and resources to maximize the benefits of these events.
How do people typically network? Any cultural do’s and don’ts?
Having spent the majority of my professional life in the San Francisco Bay Area, I’ve noticed many cultural similarities between U.S. and Polish networking. Building relationships and establishing connections are key components in both cultures. People often prefer to do business with those they like and trust. Being yourself is essential for making meaningful connections, and demonstrating your competency will further strengthen your professional network.
- Do’s:
- Be yourself.
- Stay curious: Learn about your Power Partners’ goals and ways you can help them first.
- Arrive early to the event.
Don’ts:
- Monopolize the conversation.
- Give away multiples of your business cards.
- Rush to meet / talk with everyone in the room
