As a traveler, it is essential to network in the places you travel to. It helps in expanding business and growing a network of friends and colleagues. Networking is important for personal and professional growth and adds a pinch of multiculturalism.
Here are a few simple steps you can take in order to enhance your networking experience in any city you travel.
Spreading the word about your trip.
Let people know that you are travelling somewhere on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites. They are the easiest ways of announcing your travel plans. These announcements help you receive a response from people staying in that place on the same dates as you.
Take help from the social media network and communities.
There are communities and groups on various social networking sites. Use these groups to learn about the people residing in the city, and invite like-minded people to meet you and socialize. Be specific with your travel dates, and if possible, tag someone who can be helpful in extending your network.
Get in touch with native hubs.
Most of the cities have central co-working cosmos, where people are welcome to connect with local entrepreneurs. Take a step forward and visit such hubs to meet people. These cosmos are generally open for all and are a very good choice to establish a good network in a foreign place.
Research about upcoming events in the city you are traveling.
It is always advisable to plan and prepare yourself for your upcoming trip. Do a little research and find out about upcoming networking events during your stay in the city. Plan your trip in a way to spare some time to visit these events. Meet with various people there, and share your business card.
Inquire your friends.
Use your contacts who have already visited the place before. Ask them about friends who can lend you a helping hand in a foreign city.
Consolidate your schedule.
Prepare a consolidated schedule and meet your existing contacts in the first couple of days of your trip. Then, take referrals to introduce yourself to more people and expand your network in the city.
Take out some time to play a sport or to indulge yourself in some group activities.
Playing a sport together or indulging in some group activities opens the door for enhancing your network. Sports is a great way to bring people together. There is a high probability that you may be invited back.
In your spare time, visit a coffee shop.
People around the world are generally curious about foreigners. They generally approach tourists to know more about them. A local coffee shop is one place where people are more likely to approach you and boost your network.
Socializing and networking is very important in today’s world. People have an affinity to do business with people whom they can trust. Having good relationship with people opens up a world of opportunities.
