Building a Professional Network Internationally as an Expatriate
Moving abroad often means starting from scratch personally… and professionally. Whether you’re in transition, starting a business, or seeking new opportunities, building a strong professional network is one of the key factors for success abroad.
So, how do you go about it? What tools should you use? And how can you make your personal brand shine within a new ecosystem?
Why Building a Network Is Essential When You Move Abroad
Starting from scratch… or almost
Leaving your country also means leaving behind your former colleagues, partners, and clients. Even with a strong career behind you, feelings of professional isolation can quickly arise if you don’t rebuild connections locally.
A Key Lever for Advancing Your Career
International opportunities abound—provided you’re visible, active, and engaged in relationship-building.
Word of mouth, recommendations, and chance encounters become real springboards.
Creating Opportunities, Not Just Contacts
Having a network isn’t about collecting business cards.
It’s about nurturing authentic connections and building relationships based on trust, exchange, and mutual support.
The Best Strategies to Build a Strong Network Abroad
Use LinkedIn Strategically
Optimize your profile with an international focus, join local groups, and connect with other expatriate professionals or those in your industry of interest.
Attend Local and International Events
Conferences, meetups, trade shows, French- or English-speaking afterworks…
These are all opportunities to meet key people in a relaxed atmosphere that encourages networking.
Join Expat and Entrepreneur Circles
Expat associations, women’s networks, and entrepreneur communities are treasure troves for sharing, supporting each other, learning, and feeling less alone.
Dare to Ask and Offer Value
Networking is about giving as much as receiving.
Don’t hesitate to offer your skills, ideas, and support.
That’s often how the best collaborations are born.
Reveal Your Personal Brand to Attract the Right Connections
Beyond tools and meetings, it’s your personal positioning that makes all the difference.
What image do you project? What message do you carry?
What do you want to embody in this new chapter of your expat life?Crafting Your Image and Positioning as an Expat
Presenting yourself clearly and authentically, telling your story, and defining what you offer…
This naturally attracts people and opportunities aligned with your aspirations.A Program to Embody What You Want to Radiate
At Wellness Voyages, we’ve created a unique program to help you reveal your personal brand.
A creative and strategic retreat designed for expatriates who want to reposition themselves, deepen self-awareness, and shine professionally on the international stage.