Building Professional Connections While Traveling

Travel is not just about tourism or a short-term escape from routine life; it can also be a powerful catalyst for career growth. Whether you are a digital nomad, an international student, or an expat on a business assignment, networking during travel can unlock doors to unexpected opportunities and boost your career. For Nigerian and other foreign professionals seeking to thrive in the globalized world, mastering the art of networking during travel is a must.

Why Networking Abroad Matters

Global networking facilitates cultural exchange, business opportunities, and cross-border collaborations. It can lead to career opportunities, mentorship, partnerships, and industry insights hard to get from local networks. It also exposes you to new ways of thinking, allows you to integrate into new workspaces, and opens up opportunities in countries where you may wish to work or settle permanently.

Strategies for Building Professional Connections While Abroad

1. Attend Local and International Events:

Conferences & Trade Shows: Search for industry-specific conferences taking place in your host city.
Meetups & Workshops: Utilize websites like Meetup, Eventbrite, and Facebook Events to find networking groups, tech talks, business meetups, and cultural events.

2. Become a Member of Co-working Spaces: Co-working spaces are hubs for freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. They often host networking events, happy hours, or skill-swapping workshops. Popular networks include WeWork, Impact Hub, Regus, and local co-working chains.

3. Utilize Professional Platforms

LinkedIn: Update your location, post about your travels, and network with professionals in your field in the region.
Internations: The site connects expats and global minds through regular professional and social events.
Shapr: Professional networking app similar to Tinder—match with people in your field or interests.

4. Volunteer or Join Interest-Based Groups: Volunteering or participating in community activities allows you to build natural networks while giving back. You can also join clubs like Toastmasters, coding groups, language exchange, or cooking cooperatives.

5. Attend Embassies and Expat Events: Your home country’s embassy or consulate tends to have events and seminars that attract professionals and diplomats. Nigerian embassies abroad sometimes organize cultural celebrations or forums that can be excellent networking platforms.

6. Leverage Alumni Networks: If you studied at a university abroad or an international university, utilize your alumni network. Most universities have international chapters that organize meetups and professional mixers.

7. Focus on Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local creatives, startups, or small businesses. Whether it’s a freelance project, a joint workshop, or a content partnership, these partnerships can showcase your skills and build long-term relationships.

Tips for Making the Most of Your International Network

Be Intentional: Be specific about what you would like to achieve whether it’s finding a job, building a client base, or just meeting similar professionals.
Follow Up: Follow up after an event or conversation. A thank-you note or LinkedIn request goes a long way.
Add Value: Networking is a two-way street. Offer your expertise, talent, or support where you can.
Stay Consistent: Regularly attend events and nurture connections even if you’ve moved on to a different country.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Cultural Barriers: Research local customs and etiquette. In some cultures, direct networking may seem aggressive; in others, it’s expected.
Language Barriers: Learn basic phrases in the local language. Use tools like Google Translate or hire interpreters for formal meetings.
Homesickness or Loneliness: Join expat communities or diaspora associations like Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO) to stay grounded.

Networking abroad isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about building meaningful relationships across borders. For Nigerian professionals and global travelers alike, the world is a marketplace of ideas, talents, and partnerships. So the next time you’re in a new country, don’t just explore the landmarks explore the people too.