Networking is an important way of making contacts in the business world and to hear about career opportunities. Madrid's business world, in particular, is highly relational and new arrivals will want to focus attention on forming contacts in their particular industry. As a thriving international hub of business and finance, expats have many options to create and build up their professional network.
Important:
Before you jump into building up your business contacts in Madrid, be sure to read about networking etiquette as well as Madrid's business culture.
Using social media in Madrid
Social media is an amazing tool for networking because you can get started before you even arrive in Madrid. Here are a few websites you can leverage from anywhere in the world.
Linkedin is the number one social media website for business networking. Make sure your photo and work experience are updated, then begin searching for professionals and businesses in your field in Madrid. The Community of Madrid even has its own page; you can also get in touch with local recruiters.
Facebook is another important tool to leverage when building business contacts in Madrid. The group feature allows you to search different pages dedicated to entrepreneurs, women, specific industries or expats in the Madrid business world. These groups are also a great place to familiarize yourself with faces and names you may see at events.
Ask colleagues or do a quick internet search for the biggest names in your particular field in Madrid. Once you have an idea of local industry organizations, follow them on other social media platforms to keep up on job or event opportunities in Madrid.
Important:
If you're looking at professional groups on social media, they may be looking at you, too! Make sure your Facebook page and other profiles are speaking positively about you, or be sure that the appropriate privacy settings are in place.
Attend networking events
Networking events take many forms, from attending conferences and classes to casual happy hour mixers. You'll have plenty of events to choose from in Madrid, so take time to find an event where you'll feel comfortable, and that will give you the best chance to rub elbows with like-minded professionals. In addition to keeping tabs on the social media options listed above, here are a few places to look for events near you.
Meetup is free to join and has career and business categories. You'll find networking events for specific interests and groups in Madrid in both Spanish and English.
Eventbrite lists networking and conferences in Madrid. While the site is free to join, some events may have a fee to attend.
Madrid is a popular destination for conferences and trade shows, with events focused on everything from plant science to robotics to olive oil. Industry-specific events like these are a great place to meet influential people in your field. Most trade shows and conferences are held at Madrid's expo center, and they update their calendar regularly.
Don't forget to look around your community, as well. General networking events are also organized through local organizations like a church, community centers, or co-working spaces.
Join professional associations
Professional associations provide valuable opportunities to connect with individuals in your industry. By subscribing to their email newsletters, you can gain early access to job openings that have yet to be announced publicly. Additionally, these newsletters are a reliable source for discovering niche networking events, enabling you to network with influential figures in your field.
Also, see if your university has an alumnus or international business group. Some alumnus groups have a directory that allows you to search for other graduates by geographic location or field, which may help you form a connection in Madrid.
Keep an open mind
Networking doesn't only happen in specific venues like conferences or through job-related Facebook groups. It's possible to make business connections through activities like Spanish classes, sports clubs or other hobbies. That said, always be prepared to swap information if you happen to meet someone interesting or in your industry.
Additionally, don't approach networking with the idea that you'll make immediate connections or get something out of a first meeting. Networking is a process, not a one-time thing. Definitely follow up with those you meet but allow time for relationships to form naturally.
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