Given how the global economy has evolved, the potential for growth that small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups have now extends beyond the borders of their home countries. Setting their sights on networks outside their home countries empowers these businesses to gain valuable insights and participate in collaborations that will bear fruit despite geographical boundaries.
It’s now entirely possible for an up-and-coming entrepreneur like yourself to tap a wealth of business connections abroad and use your travels to unlock a world of new opportunities. If you plan to do just that and go on a business trip abroad, here’s a list of tips that you can use to network effectively:
1. Research and identify key contacts in advance
Prior to your business trip, carry out comprehensive research to identify key contacts and potential collaborators in the region. You can utilize platforms like LinkedIn to find professionals in your industry or related sectors.
After building a list of names, send these contacts personalized introductory messages to demonstrate your proactive approach to business and set the stage for meaningful in-person connections. It would also help to mention specific aspects of their work or recent projects to showcase your genuine interest in them.
2. Attend local business events and conferences
When the opportunity arises, maximize your business trip abroad by actively participating in local business events and conferences. These gatherings will offer you opportunities to significantly expand your network, meet contacts face to face, and gain insights into the local market dynamics.
It’s a good idea to register for industry-specific events where you can engage with like-minded professionals. To make the most of these events, prepare a concise introduction that communicates your business value, and be sure to attend networking breaks, workshops, and Q&A sessions. Actively participating in these increases your visibility and opens up avenues for meaningful business connections.
3. Offer value and be of service
You can also stand out more to individuals in the foreign network by offering value and sharing best practices that you’re currently implementing for your business. Do this by bringing up relevant industry insights, providing assistance to contacts, or talking about helpful technologies that you’ve recently onboarded.
As an entrepreneur based in the Philippines, you can, for instance, talk about an online payment processing service that’s helped you run your e-commerce business smoothly. Upon hearing about the impact of an online payment Philippines solution like that of Maya Business, fellow e-commerce entrepreneurs in your industry may be inspired to seek out the best online payment processing technologies for themselves.
In this way, you’ll fulfil the role of a resource person for others and gain the trust of your contacts. Demonstrate your willingness to contribute to the success of your business connections, as this will establish a positive professional reputation for you and help you mesh into a community built on mutual respect and goodwill.
4. Cultivate a genuine interest in the country’s local culture
Beyond familiarizing yourself with a country’s local market and conducting business transactions there, it would be good to connect with people on a personal level. You can gain a better understanding of the people with whom you want to conduct business by nurturing a genuine interest in the local culture.
Attend social events, practice speaking at least a few phrases in the local language, try local cuisine with your business contacts, and engage in other activities that showcase your curiosity and willingness to learn about others. This not only demonstrates respect but also creates common ground for building rapport with potential partners or clients.
5. Utilize social media and online platforms
Also take advantage of the power of social media and online platforms to expand your network and business contacts while abroad. Before your trip, connect with local professionals and entrepreneurs on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.
During your stay, sustain a conversation about your experience by posting updates about an event. If they consent to it, tag people you’ve met and reach out to them for in-person meetings or meet-ups in your country in the future.
6. Host or attend networking dinners
You can also elevate your networking efforts by organizing or participating in networking dinners with local business leaders, industry experts, and potential partners. Hosting a dinner will allow you to set your own business agenda, invite key players, and create a conducive environment for meaningful discussions.
If it’s not an option to host, make the most out of an invitation to attend the same kinds of events, as these will provide you with opportunities to connect with influential individuals in a more relaxed setting. Be on your best behaviour and actively listen to others, possibly following up with personalized messages to continue the dialogue after the dinner.
7. Join local business chambers and associations
If you’re intent on expanding your business or establishing a base of operation in the country you’re visiting, why not become a member of local industry associations or chambers of commerce? These organizations often provide a plethora of valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration, and in general, will help you stay informed about the local business landscape.
Gaining membership often enables you to attend meetings, seminars, and networking events organized by these groups. These, in turn, present you with the means to connect with business leaders, share your expertise, and contribute to the local business community. Your participation in such associations will enhance your credibility and open more doors for you, in your country of destination and possibly more.
8. Participate in workshops and training sessions
Likewise, engaging in workshops and training sessions relevant to your industry offers a dual opportunity for skill enhancement and networking. Do your research on workshops and training sessions held during your visit, focusing on topics relevant to your industry. Then, attend sessions that align with your business objectives so that you can share insights, learn from local experts, and connect with like-minded professionals.
9. Follow up promptly and effectively
Remember that the success of your networking efforts lies in effective follow-ups. After attending events, meetings, or dinners, follow your contacts up promptly with messages expressing your gratitude and reiterating key points discussed in your encounters. This can be done more easily if you keep a set of notes from each of your interactions.
Endeavour to send follow-up emails within 24 to 48 hours, referencing specific topics discussed and expressing your enthusiasm for working together. A timely and thoughtful follow-up will reinforce a connection you’ve made and set the stage for further collaboration.
The opportunities you gain from being abroad are best cultivated by people who can sharpen your entrepreneurial skills and help you set a solid foundation for international business growth. Follow these tips to make connections that will reward you in the long run and be a crucial source of support for you as you strive to be more competitive in a global market.
Featured image credit: Anete Lūsiņa | Unsplash
