The Art of Business Networking Worldwide

Do Your Homework

No two countries are the same. Every business culture is unique, sometimes so subtly that it is barely noticeable. On the one hand, diving headfirst into the cultural melting pot is what makes meeting people from different parts of the world so interesting and rewarding. On the other, it can be a rich source of social faux pas and reputational damage.

Take the time to learn all about the local customs, business etiquette, and social norms of the country you are visiting. For example, in Tokyo the exchange of business cards when networking is a borderline reverential practice (it even has its own name – “meishi koukan”). Meanwhile, in Britain, the local’s notoriously dry and self-deprecating humour might not translate smoothly across the table of a boardroom in New York.

Be exhaustive in your research. How should you dress in formal situations? Are any topics of conversation off-limits? How do you greet people and are there levels of hierarchy to respect? If travelling to a non-English speaking country, learning a few phrases in the local language can go a long way – saying “shukran” to thank your host in Dubai, or letting someone know it was nice to meet them with a “mucho gusto” in Madrid can go a long way. Learn more about local customs and etiquette in our comprehensive City Guide series.

Login to Local Networking Platforms

The business world is permanently online. When looking to expand your network across the globe, the first place you need to look is on the World Wide Web. It’s not only a great place to learn about new networking opportunities, it’s the perfect environment to build more meaningful connections while you’re meeting people out in the real world. 

While LinkedIn is the networking platform of choice in many countries, several regions have their own preferred business and social networking tools that cater specifically to local markets. Getting to grips with these too can give you an extra competitive edge. Check out the list below featuring some of the most prominent platforms used in different countries.

Be Aware of Language Barriers

While many countries speak English in professional settings (in some countries like Singapore, English is even considered a first language) becoming too reliant on an unofficial lingua franca will mean missing out on local nuance and a chance to show your respect for the culture of your hosts. 

Trying to learn an entirely new language for the sake of a networking event might be biting off more than you can chew, but you’d be surprised how effective a few basic phrases and a bit of social camouflage are at breaking the ice.

Simple greetings, polite witticisms, and business-specific terminology go a long way towards making interactions smoother. In Japan, for example, the effort to speak even a few words in Japanese (try “Arigatou” [thank you] or “douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu” [I look forward to working with you]) can make a huge difference in how you’re perceived.

In more informal settings, technology can be your best friend. Translation apps and AI tools can “listen” to conversations and provide real-time updates, though it’s important to remember that they might not always grasp the subtleties of language or cultural tone.