How to build a professional network in London

Networking etiquette in London

Networking events are an excellent opportunity to understand who you are, what you expect from your career, and what you would like to achieve in the future. Often, we think we already know the answers to these questions; however, when verbalizing our thoughts in front of others, we may find out that we are confused or uncertain. In any case, being nervous at your first networking event is normal, especially if English isn't your first language and you are still trying to understand the rhythms of London and adapt to a new lifestyle. Here are some networking etiquette tips to help you positively present yourself and land your dream job in London.

• In a networking event, regardless of where it takes place, you want to be yourself and feel comfortable in your skin. Remember, your actions reflect your personality, and you don't want to be rude. So, never cut a person off when they are in the middle of speaking. Also, try to keep your mobile phone out of sight and in silent mode, and don't take any calls unless they are urgent.
• Don't be argumentative or highly opinionated in networking events; this is not the right place or time to start a debate. Remember that everyone is entitled to an opinion, and be careful when expressing extreme thoughts, as you may offend others (and lose them from your contacts list). Also, as an expat, don't generalize about the people in London, and don't be judgemental about the way they do business and the London work ethics that might be different from what you have been used to before moving to London.
• At networking events, you have to give to get. Therefore, always approach people thinking about how you can help them or connect them with someone you know who would be interested in their profile. As an expat, remember that you have one additional benefit: you have an international network.
• Before arriving at a networking event, set your goals and know what you are looking for. Also, carry your business card with you in English to hand it to those interested.
• Please don't use the first names of the people you meet unless they have permitted you to do so.
• Remember that the first impression is the most lasting: dress in neutral colors, wear clean shoes, and groom your hair. Ensure you have confirmed whether the event organizers have set a dress code.

Good to know:

Londoners have developed what is known as "pub culture". Hence, a lot of professional networking in London occurs in pubs near offices.

Tip:

If you are a digital nomad, some coworking spaces will give you access to networking opportunities. Be on the lookout for these events when you are on the hunt for a coworking space.

Read also Finding a job in London

Remote networking in London

Following COVID-19, professional networking has also been shaped through online meetings and virtual networking events. Despite face-to-face being the preferred mode, remote networking is a convenient way to meet people from the comfort of your office or home.

The networking etiquette doesn't change massively between face-to-face and online meetings, and politeness remains critical. However, some bits and bobs will help you get the best out of online events and add new professional contacts to your list of contacts for future reference. For example, at the beginning of the online event, introduce yourself in a few words, and don't oversell your skills and qualifications. When other people take turns introducing themselves, listen carefully, keep notes with questions to ask when given the opportunity, and most importantly, don't interrupt, do not use your phone, or work on other tasks.

As with face-to-face meetings, some attendees may feel shy or uncomfortable voicing their opinions. Hence, you can start with an informal conversation, which will help you connect and build a rapport with the other person, thereby boosting engagement. Remember that not everyone has the same personality; some may need more time to open up than their outspoken colleagues.

Attend online networking meetings from a quiet area with your other electronic devices on silent. Last but not least, join the meeting prepared with a plan about what you will bring to the meeting.

Important:

Don't neglect the dress code despite being seen partially on camera.

Corporate culture in London

In London, even more than in other parts of England, employees and executives are very time-conscious and value time when doing business-related activities, such as meetings, networking events, workshops, etc. So, when you have an appointment, if you want to be professional and respectful, you should arrive on time or just before. If you arrive late for a business meeting, it's impolite unless you have a serious excuse, which you can present with an apology. If you know that you will be running late, call ahead to apologize and give a timeframe of how late you will be, or reschedule the meeting for a new time and day.

Tip:

Make sure to check if there are any train or tube strikes when traveling to avoid any delays.

British business etiquette doesn't praise gift-giving, and some companies explicitly prohibit accepting gifts on a legal basis. However, when gifts are received or offered, they should be neither expensive (bribe) nor inexpensive (insult). If you receive a gift in public, you should open it immediately and express your gratitude. Also, if you have been invited to your colleague's house for dinner or a party, bring something to show appreciation, such as a bottle of good wine or a box of chocolates.

In London's business environment, the norm is conservative attire with dark and neutral colors. If you are attending a business event and unsure about the dress code, it's advisable to go overdressed rather than casual. However, most companies have established Fridays as dress-down days, when employees can bring their style to the office, as long as it's not offensive towards their colleagues and doesn't overlook the professional context. If you are working for a start-up company, the dress code will likely be casual, and you will be free to get creative with the items in your wardrobe.

Londoners use social media extensively for networking purposes, especially Twitter and Linkedin. Facebook and Instagram are used primarily for personal connections and casual socializing, and many companies block these websites in the workplace to prevent employees from being distracted.

At business meetings or interviews, shake hands with everyone when you arrive and leave. However, keep your handshake light, as the British aren't affectionate in public and don't like being touched, hugged, or kissed by non-family members or people with whom they aren't very close friends. Remember that the British respect personal space, so don't stand too close to your colleagues and don't stare at other people (even if it's to admire their chic suits).

Making professional connections is considered important for expats in London. It's not just about finding jobs and growing your professional network; it's also about making friends and fitting into a diverse culture. By connecting with different people, you can grow both personally and professionally. So, whether you're building a career, trying new things, looking to practice your English language skills, or just making friends, networking is your way to succeed in the vibrant London scene.

Useful links:

Event Brite

Urbanonetwork

NetworkingLondon