As many people move to Brussels to advance their careers, it is no surprise that most people in the city want to develop their professional network. Add in the fact that over 35,000 lobbyists are working in Brussels, and you'll find many events each week where you can make valuable contacts. Here are some tips on expanding your professional network in Brussels.
Regarding networking, Brussels is unique, mainly thanks to its multicultural composition and the European Parliament, a significant worldwide power seat. So many diverse nationalities call the city home, and as most people are expats, everyone has something in common.
Talks and conferences in Brussels
Every week, there are tons of events across the city; thus, it is well worth keeping an eye on what conferences and talks are going on, as these are great places for meeting people working in a field you're interested in. Some of these events attract people with drinks and food, and giving someone your business card is common after striking up a casual conversation over a glass of wine. Interest groups, think tanks, and international companies continually organize events and forums in the city. So, there are loads of opportunities to meet people interested in a similar topic as you are and expand your professional network.
Embassies and national groups in Brussels
While it is almost impossible to socialize with people from just one country in Brussels, going to events organized by your country's embassy or chamber of commerce, for instance, is a great way to make professional contacts with people who speak the same language as you and share the same culture. They, in turn, may know of opportunities you can take advantage of or point you in the direction of someone who can help you.
Sports groups or cultural groups in Brussels
Expanding and developing your professional network in Brussels doesn't always have to occur in a formal work or business setting. Indeed, one of the best places to make contacts is simply enjoying yourself and playing a sport or socializing. Brussels being what it is, everyone works for a company, institution, or governmental body. If they don't have insight or influence in the field you're looking to enter or learn about, they can always put you in contact with someone who does. You shouldn't join a specific club or team to gain favor or advance your career, as you will then probably risk coming across as disingenuous – see it more as an added benefit of being in Brussels!
Websites and online groups in Brussels
There are loads of websites that post events or meetups that are going on in Brussels, and these are a great way to meet new people who have similar interests to you. Meetup.com, for instance, has lots of groups for you to join, and there is undoubtedly something for everyone to enjoy, whether it is learning how to facilitate an event, taking part in a hackathon, or simply meeting some new people over a coffee or tea. While some are career- and business-oriented, most aren't, but don't let that stop you from joining in and making new friends or acquaintances. In reality, they all offer you the chance to further your professional network, as you never know who you might meet and how you could collaborate with them. It is also a good idea to join some Facebook groups once you move to Brussels, as some are very useful in telling you what's happening in the city.
Twitter in Brussels
Whatever company, think tank, or job you end up at in Brussels, many will immediately tell you to get on Twitter, as everyone in the city is constantly tweeting about all the latest events, policies, or campaigns. If used correctly, it can be a great way to build a network and learn about your field of interest and what people in your area of expertise are thinking and doing. By connecting with people online, you can impact and interact directly with decision-makers and influential people without leaving the house. By monitoring Twitter, you can also see which events professionals in your field will attend and, therefore, plan which ones to go to yourself.
Place du Luxembourg in Brussels
On Thursday evenings, the square in front of the European Parliament teems with people socializing and having a good time. With the end of the week approaching, people unwind at the bars that line the square, and you'll find everyone from fresh-faced interns to seasoned lobbyists and MEPS mixing. As well as enjoying themselves, many people try to make valuable contacts they can draw on at some point in the future. In the summertime, the square is fenced off to public transport, so people spill onto the roads each Thursday evening, feeling somewhat like a small festival with so many people having a good time.
Networking is a part of life in Brussels
As so many newcomers come to the city each year, it is no surprise that networking has become second nature to many people. To move to a new city and start a new job and life, you must be quite open, which helps make new contacts and meet people. Indeed, in many ways, people have to network; otherwise, it becomes tough to find your friendship group and like-minded people in the city. Whether in a social or professional sense, both are equally necessary for enjoying your new life in Brussels.
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